This Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork (Only 5-Minute Prep) is one of those recipes that just make life a little easier, don’t you think? Imagine this: you come home after a long day, and the warm, savory aroma of pork and cranberries fills your kitchen. It’s like a cozy hug waiting for you. This dish mixes sweet and savory in the best way, thanks to the juicy pork loin bathing in a tangy sauce made from French dressing, onion soup mix, and cranberry sauce. And get this— it only takes five minutes to prep! That means you can toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it while you tackle other tasks or relax with your favorite show. Friends and family will think you’ve been slaving away for hours, but only you will know the secret of your effortless culinary success. Let’s dig deeper into why this recipe works and how you can make it shine at your next meal!
Why This Recipe Works
This Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a standout dish for any occasion. The combination of French dressing, onion soup mix, and cranberry sauce creates a tantalizing sauce that infuses the pork loin with moisture and taste as it slowly cooks. The long cooking time ensures that the pork becomes incredibly tender and falls apart with the touch of a fork. This dish is as simple as it is delicious, proving that you don’t need complex recipes to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork (Only 5-Minute Prep)
If you’re looking for an easy, mouth-watering dish that requires minimal effort, this Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork is for you. With only five minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the hard work. As it cooks, the pork absorbs the sauce’s sweet and tangy flavor, making every bite memorable. This comforting dish is ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, leaving you with more time to enjoy your family and friends. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as tasty the next day, making this a go-to recipe in your cooking arsenal.
Ingredients
- 5 pounds pork loin
- 2 ounces onion soup mix (1 packet)
- 1 cup French dressing
- 14 ounces cranberry sauce (1 can)
- Dried cranberries for garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparing the Pork Loin
Season the Pork Loin
Start by placing the 5 pounds of pork loin at the bottom of your slow cooker. You want to use a piece that’s nice and thick; this will help retain moisture as it cooks.
Make the Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine the 2 ounces of onion soup mix, 1 cup of French dressing, and 14 ounces of cranberry sauce. Mix well until fully blended. The aroma is already so inviting, and this is just the beginning!
Pour the Sauce Over the Pork
Evenly pour the sauce mixture over the pork loin, ensuring it is well coated. This will form a beautiful glaze as it cooks, promising a feast for your taste buds.
Cooking the Pork Loin
Set Your Slow Cooker
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. Don’t peek too often, as that can let heat escape, adding time to your cooking process.
Check for Doneness
Once the cooking time is up, check that the pork is tender and pulls apart easily with a fork. If it’s not, give it a bit more time. You want it melting-in-your-mouth tender!
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside steamed vegetables. Drizzle additional cranberry sauce on top for an extra burst of flavor. Garnishing with dried cranberries and fresh parsley adds a lovely touch to the dish, making it look fantastic on the dinner table.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the pork loin fits comfortably in your slow cooker to promote even cooking.
- For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the pork in the sauce overnight before cooking. It’ll make a world of difference!
- Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your pork loin; smaller cuts may require less time and larger cuts will need more.
Variations
- Add sliced apples or pears to the slow cooker for a fruity twist.
- Substitute the French dressing with balsamic vinaigrette for a tangy flavor profile that creates a different taste experience.
- For a spicy kick, toss in a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This little touch can elevate the dish even more!
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen as it rests, making the next day even better! For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat again, just reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Pairing Ideas
Pair your Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork with a refreshing side salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or buttery cornbread. A light red wine like Pinot Noir complements the dish perfectly. Whatever you choose, your meal is sure to impress!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of pork?
Yes, you can use a pork shoulder or tenderloin. Just adjust cooking time as necessary to ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.
2. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and is perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just check the labels on the onion soup mix and French dressing for gluten-free options.
4. How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can easily add red pepper flakes if you’re looking for some heat!
5. Can I cook this on the stovetop?
While the slow cooker provides the best results, you can simmer on low in a pot. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size of the pork.
This Slow Cooker Cranberry Pork is not just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that brings warmth to your kitchen. Delicious, tender, and packed with flavor, it can easily become a family favorite. With a mere five minutes of prep, you can savor the joy of home-cooked goodness without the hassle. Serve it for dinner and watch your loved ones rave about it!
Print
Cranberry Pork
This Cranberry Pork is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender pork loin in a tangy sauce that’s effortlessly prepared in just five minutes. Ideal for busy nights or gatherings!
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 5 pounds pork loin
- 2 ounces onion soup mix (1 packet)
- 1 cup French dressing
- 14 ounces cranberry sauce (1 can)
- Dried cranberries for garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place pork loin in the slow cooker.
- Combine onion soup mix, French dressing, and cranberry sauce in a bowl.
- Pour sauce mixture over the pork loin.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Check for tenderness and serve.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
For enhanced flavor, marinate the pork in sauce overnight.
Ensure the pork loin fits well in the slow cooker for even cooking.
Adjust cooking time based on the size of the pork loin.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours on low or 4 hours on high
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 90
