In the heart of the Midwest, where the farmland stretches endlessly and the scent of home-cooked meals fills the air, few dishes are as comforting as this slow cooker honey garlic pork. Combining the natural sweetness of honey with the savory warmth of garlic, this recipe delivers rich, soulful flavor with minimal effort. It’s the kind of meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day, and it brings the nostalgia of family dinners right to your table.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork tenderloins | 2 large (about 2 pounds total) |
| Honey | 1/2 cup |
| Soy sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Ketchup | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 6 cloves |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon |
Instructions
- Place the pork tenderloins in the slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, apple cider vinegar, oregano, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the pork, making sure it is well coated.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the pork is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Optional: Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Serve the sliced pork with the sauce drizzled over the top.
Variations & Tips
For a fresh twist, add a tablespoon of grated ginger to the sauce. Chicken thighs can replace pork if desired. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note. For a thicker glaze, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir into the sauce before simmering. Pair with mashed potatoes, buttered corn, or fresh green salad for a complete, hearty meal.
