Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin: Easy Recipe & Tips

If you’re looking for an easy and delicious dinner that practically cooks itself, you’ve come to the right place! This Slow Cooker beef Tenderloin: Easy Recipe & Tips is a true gem in my collection. Tender beef, infused with a savory apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard sauce, just melts in your mouth. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s elegant enough for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together. You can set it and forget it while you go about your day. The aroma that fills your home as it cooks is simply irresistible, making everyone eager to gather around the table when dinner is served.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a handful of simple steps, this dish is beginner-friendly and quick to prep.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Juicy beef tenderloin paired with flavorful veggies makes for a meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Just toss everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a delicious dinner waiting for you!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard creates a tangy sauce that elevates the tender meat.
• Versatile Sides: Pair this dish with anything from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Each one adds its own special touch to create a mouthwatering dish!

For the Beef

• 1 (2-3 pound) beef tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

For the Sauce

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Vegetables

• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped

Variations

One of the best things about this Slow Cooker beef Tenderloin is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the Protein: Try using chicken thighs or even a whole chicken instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like bell peppers or potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change Up the Sauce: Experiment with different mustards or add herbs like rosemary or sage to give it your unique twist.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your dishes!

How to Make Slow Cooker beef Tenderloin: Easy Recipe & Tips

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Start by trimming any silver skin from your beef tenderloin. Patting it dry helps achieve a nice sear later. In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary. Rubbing this seasoning all over the meat adds incredible flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Searing the beef tenderloin on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side gives it that beautiful brown crust we all love. This step locks in moisture and adds depth to the flavor. Once done, set it aside for now.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In that same skillet (if you want), sauté your sliced onion, chopped carrots, and celery over medium heat until they soften—about 5-7 minutes. This step really enhances their natural sweetness! Place these veggies at the bottom of your slow cooker; they’ll create a lovely bed for the meat.

Step 4: Whisk Together Your Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic until well combined. Pour this savory mixture over your sautéed vegetables in the slow cooker; it’s going to infuse everything with flavor as it cooks!

Step 5: Slow Cook It

Gently place your seared beef tenderloin on top of those lovely veggies in the slow cooker. Cover it up and let it cook on low for 3-4 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer if you have one—it ensures perfectly cooked meat every time.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, carefully remove the tenderloin from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes—this step allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Slice against the grain into ½-inch thick slices for maximum tenderness. Don’t forget to spoon that delicious sauce from the slow cooker over each slice before serving! Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Beef Tenderloin: Easy Recipe & Tips

Cooking a tender and flavorful beef tenderloin in your slow cooker is simple and rewarding! Here are some pro tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

• Sear the Beef First: Searing the beef tenderloin before placing it in the slow cooker enhances the flavor by creating a beautiful crust. This step locks in juices and adds depth to your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Selecting high-quality beef tenderloin and fresh vegetables can make a significant difference in taste. Fresh ingredients bring out the best flavors, ensuring your meal is delicious.

• Let It Rest: After cooking, allowing the beef to rest before slicing ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat. This will keep each slice moist and flavorful.

• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak seasonings based on your preferences. Adding more herbs or spices can elevate the flavor profile and make it uniquely yours.

• Save Leftover Sauce: The sauce leftover in your slow cooker is packed with flavor! Use it as a base for gravies or drizzling over other dishes to enhance their taste.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Tenderloin: Easy Recipe & Tips

Presenting your slow cooker beef tenderloin beautifully can turn an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary one. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the beef.
• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of green onions brings a subtle crunch and mild onion flavor that enhances each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce, adding comfort to your meal.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color, balancing out the hearty beef.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the dish.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the beef.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable meal that family and friends will rave about! Enjoy your culinary adventure with this easy slow cooker beef tenderloin recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Beef Tenderloin recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious, tender beef throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beef to cool completely before storing.
• Place sliced beef tenderloin and sauce in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• If you want to keep it longer, freeze the sliced beef tenderloin with sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• For best quality, try to remove as much air as possible from the bag.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen beef overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place beef and sauce in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish covered loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, heating on medium power until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use other cuts of beef for this Slow Cooker Beef Tenderloin: Easy Recipe & Tips?

Absolutely! While tenderloin is lovely for its tenderness, you can substitute other cuts like sirloin or chuck roast. Just adjust cooking times as needed for different cuts.

What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Beef Tenderloin: Easy Recipe & Tips?

Great side options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. These will complement the savory flavors of the beef beautifully!

How do I know when my beef tenderloin is done?

The best way to check doneness is by using a meat thermometer. For medium rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C), and for medium, cook until it reaches 145°F (63°C).

Can I omit any ingredients from this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to customize according to your tastes. You can skip or replace vegetables or adjust seasonings based on what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Beef Tenderloin recipe is truly a delightful choice for any weeknight dinner! It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with family. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—there’s something so comforting about tender beef simmered in a rich sauce. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your sides or tweak the recipe to suit your taste. Happy cooking!

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