There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a home-cooked meal to brighten your day, especially when it feels as effortless as setting it and forgetting it. My slow-cooked Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin is the ultimate comfort dish that transforms humble ingredients into a show-stopping centerpiece. As the aroma of applewood bacon mingles with the sweet-savory glaze, I can’t help but feel excited about the flavor explosion waiting to unfold.
This recipe is not just about easy meal prep; it’s about savoring each fork-tender bite that encapsulates the joys of home cooking. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this dish guarantees impressed guests and full bellies, all while allowing you to sit back and relax. So, let’s dive into the world of savory goodness and whip up a delightful meal that’s as simple as it is delicious!
Why is Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin a Must-Try?
Set-it-and-Forget-it: Simply prep your ingredients, place them in the crockpot, and let time work its magic.
Incredible Flavor: The combination of smokey bacon and sweet glaze creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends; everyone will rave about this recipe!
Versatile Meal Base: Enjoy it with a variety of sides; think mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a complete feast.
Easy Clean-Up: One pot means minimal dishes, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning!
Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin Ingredients
Transform your cooking experience with this simple yet gourmet dish.
For the Seasoning
• Sea Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust according to taste.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth; use more for an extra kick.
• Garlic Cloves (4, minced) – Provides aromatic depth; can substitute with garlic powder (1 teaspoon).
• Onion Powder (1 teaspoon) – Contributes mild sweetness; fresh onions can be used if sautéed first.
• Dried Thyme (1/2 teaspoon) – Provides herbaceous notes; fresh thyme can substitute (just use a larger quantity).
• Smoked Paprika (1 tablespoon) – Adds a smoky, savory flavor; regular paprika can replace it, though the flavor will differ.
For the Glaze
• Light Brown Sugar (1/4 cup) – Adds sweetness and helps create the glaze; maple syrup may be used as a substitute.
• Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon) – Offers tangy brightness to balance the sweetness; yellow mustard can be an alternative.
For the Meat
• Thick-Cut Bacon (8-10 slices, preferably applewood smoked) – Infuses the pork with deep flavor; turkey bacon can be used for a leaner option.
• Pork Loin (2 1/2 to 3 pounds) – The main protein that will become tender in cooking; pork tenderloin can be a faster-cooking substitute.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to create a sensational Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin that will be the talk of the table!
How to Make Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin
-
Prepare Bacon: Cut the thick-cut bacon into 1-inch pieces and layer half in the bottom of your crockpot. This creates a flavorful base that will infuse the pork as it cooks.
-
Season Pork Loin: Pat the pork loin dry with a paper towel, then sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and thyme. This seasoning blend will enhance each bite of your tender pork.
-
Place Pork in Crockpot: Position the seasoned pork loin on top of the bacon in the crockpot, ensuring it gets cozy with the flavorful base below.
-
Make Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar and Dijon mustard to create a thick paste. Spread this generous layer over the pork, allowing the sweetness to meld beautifully with the savory flavors.
-
Top with Remaining Bacon: Place the leftover pieces of bacon on top of the glazed pork. This will give you that extra hit of smoky goodness throughout the cooking process.
-
Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is fork-tender. Resist the temptation to peek too often—keeping the lid on helps maintain the perfect cooking temperature!
-
Finishing Touches: After the cooking time, remove the pork from the crockpot, let it rest for about 10 minutes, then slice it and serve with the luscious juices drizzled on top. Enjoy every bite!
Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme for a pop of color and added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these exciting twists!
- Turkey Bacon: Substitute traditional bacon with turkey bacon for a lower-fat option that still brings on the flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Swap out brown sugar for pure maple syrup for a unique sweetness that complements the pork beautifully.
- Chicken Breast: To lighten things up, use chicken breast instead of pork loin. Just be mindful to adjust the cooking time, reducing it by about an hour.
- Vegetarian Option: For a delightful twist, replace the meat with hearty mushrooms, such as portobello, that soak up the savory glaze.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the seasoning mix for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meal.
- Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage can be introduced either in place of or alongside the dried thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate some orange or lemon zest into the glaze for a bright, refreshing flavor contrast that elevates your dish.
- Smoky BBQ Twist: Brush the pork with your favorite BBQ sauce in the last hour of cooking for a smoky, tangy punch that will tantalize your taste buds.
With these variations, you can personalize your Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin to suit any palate and occasion!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin preparations are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to simplify their weeknight meals! You can season the pork loin and prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance; just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. To enhance flavor, you can also chop the bacon ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply layer half the bacon in the crockpot, place the seasoned pork on top, and continue with the recipe as directed. This makes the cooking process easier, allowing you to savor a mouthwatering dinner with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin
• Choose Quality Bacon: Opting for thick-cut, applewood-smoked bacon will elevate the flavors of your Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin—it makes all the difference in taste.
• Trim the Fat: Trim excess fat from the pork loin to avoid a greasy dish. A lean pork loin means less oil and more delicious glaze.
• Avoid Peeking: Opening the crockpot during cooking can lead to temperature drops, affecting the cooking time and juiciness of your meat.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the pork to rest for about 10 minutes after cooking helps retain its juices. This ensures succulent, flavorful slices every time.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning the pork loin. A well-seasoned roast enhances the overall flavor profile, giving you that mouthwatering experience.
What to Serve with Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin?
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a slow-cooked meal with well-chosen sides that enhance every bite of your tender pork.
-
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide a rich texture that complements the savory pork loin beautifully.
-
Steamed Green Beans: Fresh and crisp, steamed green beans add a vibrant color while balancing the heartiness of your dish. Their subtle crunch offers relief to the mouthfeel and excellence with every juicy bite.
-
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and sweet on the inside, these roasted sprouts meld perfectly with the smoky flavors of the bacon, enhancing that blissful savory-sweet combo.
-
Caesar Salad: A classic crisp salad brings a refreshing contrast to your meal. The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons add layers of texture that make every forkful exciting.
-
Cornbread: Light and slightly sweet, cornbread is a comforting side that soaks up all those luscious meat juices, making every mouthful a delight.
-
Sweet Potatoes: Whether mashed, baked, or roasted, sweet potatoes provide a hint of sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the savory bacon glaze, creating a lovely balance.
-
Glass of Red Wine: A robust red wine enhances the flavors of your pork loin, inviting a cozy atmosphere for your meal that turns dinner into a celebration.
-
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect sweet ending that echoes the comforting flavors from the main dish. The spices in the crisp beautifully harmonize with your pork.
Storage Tips for Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you need to keep it longer, freeze the sliced pork in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Use a splash of broth or water when reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop to keep the pork moist and tender.
Room Temperature: Do not leave out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage and ensure food safety.
Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pork loin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for a pork loin that has a nice marbling of fat throughout. This fat will melt during cooking, keeping the meat juicy and tender. Aim for a pork loin that weighs between 2 ½ to 3 pounds, as this size cooks perfectly in a standard crockpot while remaining tender.
How should I store leftovers?
For sure! Store leftover Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled down to room temperature before sealing it. This keeps it fresh and fit for delicious reheating.
Can I freeze the cooked pork loin?
Yes, you definitely can! To freeze, slice your cooked pork and place it in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my pork loin is too dry after cooking?
Not to worry! If your pork turns out dry, it may have been overcooked or cooked at a high temperature. To salvage it, try adding broth or gravy when reheating to introduce moisture back into the meat. Alternatively, slice the pork thinly and serve it on a bun with some BBQ sauce for a tasty pulled pork sandwich!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very good question! If you’re serving this Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin to guests, keep in mind that the dish contains pork and bacon, which some may avoid for dietary reasons. For a healthier alternative, consider using turkey bacon, or if vegetarian options are preferred, hearty mushrooms work well as a substitute in the recipe. Always check for any additional allergies regarding the seasoning ingredients.
How can I make sure my bacon doesn’t get soggy during cooking?
Great concern! To keep your bacon crispy, it’s important to layer it properly; place half at the bottom of the crockpot and then top with the pork loin and glaze. The remaining bacon should be added on top of the pork before cooking. This way, it cooks in the pork’s juices while also having the chance to get a bit crispy on top. Additionally, avoid lifting the lid too often during cooking to retain heat!
Mouthwatering Crockpot Bacon Pork Loin for Easy Comfort Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the thick-cut bacon into 1-inch pieces and layer half in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Pat the pork loin dry with a paper towel, then sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, and thyme.
- Position the seasoned pork loin on top of the bacon in the crockpot.
- In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar and Dijon mustard to create a thick paste. Spread this over the pork.
- Place the leftover pieces of bacon on top of the glazed pork.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is fork-tender.
- After cooking, remove the pork from the crockpot, let it rest for about 10 minutes, then slice and serve.