Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pineapple Beef Loin
- Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted veggies.
- Hands-Off Cooking: Let your slow cooker do the work while you relax.
- Sweet and Savory Perfection: Pineapple adds a tropical sweetness that complements the savory beef.
- Tender and Flavorful: Slow cooking ensures the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Tools You’ll Need
- Knife and cutting board: For prepping the onion and other ingredients.
- Slow cooker: For perfectly tender beef.
- Small bowl: To mix the sauce ingredients.
Slow Cooker Pineapple Beef Loin
- Total Time: 0 hours
Description
There’s nothing better than coming home to the mouthwatering aroma of a hearty, flavorful meal ready to enjoy. This Slow Cooker Pineapple Beef Loin combines tender, juicy beef with the sweet and tangy taste of pineapple, creating a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfect for busy weekdays or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
To make this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2–3 lb beef loin: Choose a cut that fits your slow cooker.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks: Fresh or canned (drained) work well.
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice: Adds extra flavor and moisture.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: For a savory, umami kick.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: A hint of warmth and spice.
- 1 medium onion (sliced): Adds a savory depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional): For thickening the sauce.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional): For garnish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Season the beef loin with black pepper on all sides.
Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients
- Place the sliced onion in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the beef loin on top of the onions.
- Scatter the pineapple chunks around and on top of the beef.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and pineapple in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- The beef is done when it’s tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the liquid from the slow cooker to a small saucepan.
- Mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. Heat over medium heat until thickened.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice or shred the beef loin and serve it with the pineapple and sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
Notes
- Choose the Right Cut: A lean beef loin works great, but you can also use chuck roast or brisket for more marbling and flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Onions: They add a sweet, savory base that enhances the sauce.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Prep Ahead: Assemble the ingredients the night before, then start the slow cooker in the morning for an effortless dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the beef and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes! Fresh pineapple works beautifully and adds a vibrant flavor.
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Q3: Can I cook this in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Place the ingredients in a covered baking dish and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Conclusion: A Sweet and Savory Masterpiece!
This Slow Cooker Pineapple Beef Loin is a delicious blend of tropical sweetness and savory goodness. With its tender texture and irresistible sauce, it’s a meal your family will request again and again. Give it a try and enjoy the flavors of this effortless slow-cooked dish!
Enjoy every bite of this flavorful, tender beef loin dish, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!
