Slow Cooker Maple Pork Loin

Description

Slow Cooker Maple Pork Loin is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, juicy pork with a rich, sweet, and savory glaze that develops beautifully during slow cooking. The pork loin cooks low and slow until it becomes incredibly moist and flavorful, while maple syrup caramelizes with garlic, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and aromatic herbs to create a delicious sauce that’s perfect for spooning over every slice. As the pork simmers, onions soften into the cooking juices, adding natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

This recipe requires only a few minutes of preparation before the slow cooker takes over. It’s perfect for busy weekdays, cozy Sunday dinners, holiday meals, or meal prep. The result is a restaurant-quality pork loin that’s tender enough to slice easily yet hearty enough to satisfy the whole family.

Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, buttered green beans, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of the delicious maple sauce. With simple ingredients and effortless preparation, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite you’ll make again and again.

Ingredients

3–4 lb pork loin roast
½ cup pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
2 tablespoons water

Instructions

Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. (Optional but recommended.)
Arrange the sliced onions in the bottom of the slow cooker and place the pork loin on top.
In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic until smooth.
Pour the maple mixture evenly over the pork. Add the butter around the roast.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Transfer the pork to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together the cornstarch and water, stir it into the slow cooker juices, and cook on HIGH for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
Slice the pork and spoon the warm maple sauce and onions over each serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.

Tips

Use pure maple syrup for the richest flavor.
Don’t overcook the pork loin to keep it juicy.
Searing adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
Add baby potatoes or carrots for a complete one-pot meal.
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 6–8 hours

Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Servings

6–8 servings

Benefits

High in lean protein to support muscle growth and repair.
Garlic and onions provide antioxidants and rich flavor.
Pure maple syrup adds natural sweetness along with minerals like manganese and zinc.
A satisfying meal that pairs well with a variety of healthy side dishes.

Q&A

Can I use pork tenderloin instead?
Yes. Reduce the cooking time since tenderloin cooks much faster than pork loin.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble everything the night before and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Freeze sliced pork with the sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

What should I serve with it?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, rice, buttered noodles, or a fresh garden salad all pair beautifully.

Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)

Calories: 395
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Sugar: 12 g
Sodium: 420 mg
Potassium: 710 mg
Iron: 8% DV