Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this ridiculously easy Crock Pot Cranberry Pork recipe! Imagine tender, juicy pork infused with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, falling apart with minimal effort. This American-style dish is about to become your new go-to meal that will have everyone asking for seconds – and the best part? It practically cooks itself while you sit back and relax!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork loin
- 1 can cranberry sauce
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Remove the pork loin from refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes better browning.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the entire can of cranberry sauce, onion soup mix, and water. Whisk thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended and the soup mix is fully dissolved.
- Place the pork loin directly into the crock pot, positioning it centrally to ensure even cooking.
- Pour the cranberry sauce mixture evenly over the pork, making sure to coat all sides of the meat. Use a silicone brush or spoon to spread the sauce if needed.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set the temperature to low heat setting. This slow, gentle cooking will help tenderize the pork and infuse it with the sweet and savory cranberry flavor.
- Allow the pork to cook for 6 hours, resisting the urge to lift the lid frequently, which can release heat and extend cooking time.
- After 6 hours, check the internal temperature of the pork with a meat thermometer. It should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the pork from the crock pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Slice the pork against the grain and serve with the remaining cranberry sauce from the crock pot as a delicious accompanying sauce.
Tips
- Pat the pork loin dry before seasoning to ensure maximum flavor absorption and better browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked pork – aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Resist the temptation to lift the crock pot lid frequently, as this releases heat and can extend cooking time.
- Let the meat rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- For extra flavor, consider searing the pork loin briefly in a hot skillet before placing it in the crock pot.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with the cooking liquid after removing the pork.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and will taste even more delicious the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 368kcal
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 56g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
