Print

Easy Apricot Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin Slow Cooker Recipe for Perfect Dinner

Apricot Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin - featured image

A simple and delicious slow cooker pork tenderloin recipe with a sweet and tangy apricot balsamic glaze that results in tender, juicy meat perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning, optional but recommended)
  • ½ cup apricot preserves
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloin for 2-3 minutes per side until nicely browned (optional but recommended).
  3. In a bowl, whisk together apricot preserves, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried thyme (if using), red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until smooth and combined.
  4. Place the pork tenderloin in the slow cooker and pour the glaze evenly over the top.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 3.5 to 4 hours or on high for 2 to 2.5 hours, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and is tender but not falling apart.
  6. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
  7. If the glaze is too thin, pour it into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until thickened to a syrupy consistency.
  8. Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and drizzle with the thickened apricot balsamic glaze.

Notes

Browning the pork before slow cooking adds caramelized flavor and better texture but is optional. Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork reaches 145°F for safe and juicy results. If glaze is too thin after cooking, simmer on stove to thicken. Slow cooker times may vary; start checking doneness early to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork tenderloin, apricot glaze, balsamic vinegar, slow cooker recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, pork recipe, apricot preserves