Nothing beats coming home to the irresistible aroma of a tender, slow-cooked pork dinner. This fragrant Maple-Garlic Pork Tenderloin brings together sweet and savory flavors in the most comforting way. With just a little prep, you’ll have a succulent roast that’s practically effortless—just set, forget, and get ready to indulge!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork tenderloin (usually about two small tenderloins)
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Begin by patting the pork dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade cling to the meat. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, minced garlic, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, dried thyme, pepper, and salt. Pour half of this mixture over the pork in a zip-top bag or shallow dish, coating the tenderloins well, and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator).
When ready to cook, lightly coat your slow cooker with nonstick spray. Place the pork tenderloins inside and drizzle the remaining marinade over the top. Set your slow cooker on low and let the pork cook for about four hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (check with a meat thermometer for accuracy). For a rich, caramelized finish, remove the tenderloins from the slow cooker and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet. Baste them with the cooking liquid and broil for a couple of minutes until lightly browned and bubbly.
Once browned, let the pork rest for about five minutes before slicing. Serve it drizzled in the luscious maple-garlic juices left in the slow cooker. Pair with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes to soak up every drop of flavor.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends—anytime you crave a comforting meal with minimal fuss. The pork tenderloin is a lean cut, making it relatively health-friendly, and the maple-garlic marinade can be easily adapted by swapping honey for maple or adding fresh herbs like rosemary. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite seasoning blends or sides. You’ll love how this fork-tender, sweet-and-savory dish delights everyone around the table!
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
