Crock Pot Apricot Pork has become my absolute go-to for a weeknight dinner that feels special but is incredibly easy. I remember the first time I made it – the sweet, tangy aroma of the apricot glaze filling my kitchen was just divine. My family devoured it, and I was so pleased with how tender and flavorful the pork tenderloin turned out. This slow cooker apricot pork recipe is seriously a lifesaver when you’re short on time but still want a delicious, comforting meal. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Apricot Pork

This recipe is a game-changer for busy schedules and picky eaters alike! Here’s why you’ll adore making this dish:

It’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it a stress-free weeknight option.
The sweet and savory apricot glaze is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
This Easy Apricot Pork is perfect for beginners in the kitchen.
The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with more free time.
You get a delicious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.
This Easy Apricot Pork is wonderfully versatile, pairing with many sides.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy tender, flavorful pork without a fuss.
The aroma of the cooking apricot glaze will fill your home with a comforting scent.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Apricot Pork

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating a truly delicious Sweet and Savory Pork dish. The simplicity here is key to its success, so don’t worry if you don’t have anything fancy!

2 pounds pork tenderloins – trimmed of excess fat for the best texture
1 cup apricot preserves – this is the heart of our sweet glaze
2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing, which locks in flavor
1 cup soy sauce – provides a salty, umami base
1 cup broth (chicken or vegetable) – helps create a balanced sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that aromatic depth
2 tablespoons stone ground mustard – adds a little tang and complexity
1 tablespoon minced dried onion – a little onion flavor without the chopping
1 teaspoon ground black pepper – for a touch of heat
1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional) – for a pop of color and freshness at the end

How to Make Crock Pot Apricot Pork

Let’s get this delicious meal started! This recipe is straightforward, allowing the slow cooker to do most of the heavy lifting. Follow these simple steps for perfectly tender and flavorful pork.

Step 1: First things first, trim any excess fat from your 2 pounds pork tenderloins. This ensures a cleaner bite and better texture.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your tenderloins generously with salt and pepper. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This step is crucial for locking in juices and adding depth of flavor.
Step 3: Carefully transfer the seared pork tenderloins to your slow cooker. It’s a great feeling knowing the main part of your Crock Pot Apricot Pork is in place!
Step 4: Now, let’s make that amazing glaze. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup apricot preserves, 1 cup broth (chicken or vegetable works well), 1 cup soy sauce, 4 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons stone ground mustard, 1 tablespoon minced dried onion, 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined into a smooth sauce.
Step 5: Pour this glorious apricot mixture over the pork tenderloins in the slow cooker. Make sure to coat them evenly so every bite is infused with that sweet and savory goodness.
Step 6: Cover your slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2.5-3 hours. The best way to know it’s done is to check the internal temperature; it should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork. These apricot pork slow cooker instructions ensure tender results.
Step 7: Once cooked, remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the pork incredibly tender and moist.
Step 8: Slice the tenderloin against the grain and garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Serving this Crock Pot Apricot Pork hot will fill your home with an incredible aroma. Enjoy these simple apricot pork slow cooker instructions for a fantastic meal.

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Pro Tips for the Best Crock Pot Apricot Pork

Want to elevate your slow cooker experience? These tips will ensure your apricot pork is absolutely perfect every time!

Always sear the pork tenderloin before slow cooking; this step is key for a beautiful crust and deeper flavor.
Don’t overcook the pork! Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for maximum tenderness.
Reduce the glaze in the slow cooker by removing the pork and cooking the liquid on high for an extra 15-20 minutes until thickened.
Consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the glaze to balance the sweetness.

What’s the secret to perfect Crock Pot Apricot Pork?

The secret is a two-fold approach: searing the pork first for color and flavor, and then ensuring you don’t overcook it. Getting that perfect apricot pork slow cooker glaze consistency also makes a huge difference!

Can I make Crock Pot Apricot Pork ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the entire slow cooker meal the night before and refrigerate it. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if it’s going in cold, adding about 30 minutes to the low setting.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crock Pot Apricot Pork?

The biggest mistake is overcooking, which leads to dry pork. Always use a meat thermometer. Also, avoid skipping the searing step, as it significantly impacts the final flavor and texture of your Crock Pot Apricot Pork.

Best Ways to Serve Crock Pot Apricot Pork

This tender, flavorful pork is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Figuring out what to serve with crock pot apricot pork is half the fun!

For a classic comfort meal, serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice to soak up that delicious apricot glaze. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans also make a wonderful, healthy addition, providing a nice contrast to the sweetness of the pork. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can be a refreshing complement. For more ideas on delicious sides, check out these recipes.

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Nutrition Facts for Crock Pot Apricot Pork

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving for this delectable Crock Pot Apricot Pork. It’s a great way to see what you’re enjoying!

Calories: 300 kcal
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Protein: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 15 g
Sodium: 800 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, you can explore resources on nutrition.gov.

How to Store and Reheat Crock Pot Apricot Pork

Leftover Crock Pot Apricot Pork is fantastic, and proper storage makes it easy to enjoy later. For optimal flavor and safety, let the cooked pork cool down for about an hour at room temperature before storing. You can then portion it into airtight containers. This makes for excellent apricot pork crock pot meal prep throughout the week. Stored correctly in the refrigerator, it will keep well for 3-4 days. If you want to save it for longer, freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating is simple! For refrigerated portions, gently warm the pork in a skillet over medium-low heat, or reheat it in the microwave. For frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator first. You can also reheat frozen portions directly in a low oven (around 325°F or 160°C) until heated through, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes. For a quick side, try some spaghetti with garlic and oil.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Apricot Pork

What is the best cut of pork for this Crock Pot Apricot Pork recipe?

While this recipe is written for pork tenderloin, which cooks quickly and stays tender, you can also use pork shoulder or pork butt. If using a tougher cut like shoulder, increase the cooking time on low to 6-8 hours to ensure it becomes fork-tender. This adaptability is what makes the Crockpot apricot pork recipe so versatile!

Can I make Crock Pot Apricot Pork with fresh apricots?

Yes, you absolutely can! If you have fresh apricots, you’ll need about 2 cups of chopped ripe apricots. Cook them down with a little sugar and lemon juice on the stovetop until they’re jammy before adding them to the slow cooker. It adds an amazing fresh flavor! For more fruit inspiration, consider these berry crumble recipes.

How do I thicken the sauce for my Crock Pot Apricot Pork?

If your sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like after cooking, you can easily thicken it. Remove the pork, then mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the liquid in the slow cooker and cook on high for another 15-20 minutes, or until thickened. This is a great trick for achieving that perfect Crockpot apricot pork recipe glaze.

What are some other fruits I can use instead of apricots?

While apricot is classic, feel free to experiment! Peach preserves, orange marmalade, or even plum jelly can create delicious variations. Each will offer a slightly different sweet and tangy profile to your slow cooker pork. For a different flavor profile, try this cinnamon orange jam.

Variations of Crock Pot Apricot Pork You Can Try

Feeling adventurous? This versatile Crock Pot Apricot Pork recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists. Here are a few ideas to get your culinary creativity flowing:

Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha to the apricot glaze. It creates a wonderful sweet and spicy contrast that’s incredibly addictive.
Citrus Zing: Swap out half the broth for orange juice or add the zest of one orange to the glaze. This brightens the flavor and adds a lovely citrus note to the pork.
Gluten-Free Option: Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your apricot preserves are gluten-free. This makes for a fantastic apricot pork tenderloin slow cooker meal that everyone can enjoy.
Fruity Swap: Don’t have apricot preserves? Peach preserves or even apple butter work beautifully in this slow cooker preparation, offering a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.