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Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Mashed Cauliflower 🥩

Natasha Ekic
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Get ready for some comfort food that won't break the carb bank! Our Slow Cooker Pork Loin is not just melt-in-your-mouth good. It's also keto-friendly. We've paired it with a creamy cauliflower mash that's a game-changer. Ready to get cooking? Let's dive into this simple and tasty pork loin recipe!

Plating of slow cooker pork loin with mashed cauliflower on a wooden board.
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Preparation and cooking overview

Making pork loin in a slow cooker is simple. First, rub the pork with spices, then brown it in a pan. Next, let it slow-cook in vegetable broth. Pair it with a smooth cauliflower mash, and in just 15 minutes of active work, you'll have a dish that tastes like it's straight from a restaurant.

Chef's note

If there's leftover juice in the slow cooker after your pork is done, use it to make a tasty gravy. First, strain out any bits, then warm the liquid in a pot. Mix in equal amounts of almond flour and butter, stirring until the gravy is just right for you. Want to try more keto pork recipes? Don't forget to check an immense collection of pork recipes at CIK!

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 8 hours
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 6 Servings

For more inspiration check out our Pork recipe.

🥩 Ingredients for slow cooker pork loin recipe

To prepare the juicy pork loin and cauliflower mash, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the pork loin

  • 2 pounds pork loin
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 cup vegetable broth

For the creamy mashed cauliflower

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
All the ingredients required to make the slow cooker pork loin gathered and arranged on the table.

Ingredient substitutions

If you don't have the exact ingredients or prefer different options, we've got you covered:

  • Olive oil: Swap olive oil with coconut, avocado oil, or butter for a slightly different flavor profile.
  • Vegetable broth: Substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a savory twist.
  • Cream cheese: If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of cream cheese.
  • Butter: Swap butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for a plant-based version.
  • Parmesan cheese: Go for nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.

Additional ingredients

Boost the taste of your pork loin and cauliflower mash with these optional ingredients:

  • Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on the pork for a burst of freshness.
  • Sliced almonds: Add a crisp touch to your cauliflower mash with almond slices.
  • Bacon bits: Stir bacon into the cauliflower while cooking for a smoky crunch.
  • Red pepper flakes: For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes on the pork.
  • Lemon zest: Infuse a zesty twist by blending lemon zest into the pork seasoning.
A serving of slow-cooked pork loin and mashed cauliflower on a wooden board.

Cooking tools required

To make this pork loin slow cooker recipe, you'll need the following tools:

  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Small bowl
  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Potato masher

Tool substitutes list

  • Cast-iron skillet: Use a non-stick frying pan to sear the pork if you don't have a cast-iron skillet.
Slow-cooked pork loin presented alongside mashed cauliflower on a wooden board.

How to make Slow Cooker Pork Loin and cauliflower mash: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Pan-searing
  • Slow-cooking
  • Boiling
  • Sautéing

Preparation steps

  1. Gather and measure all the ingredients.
  2. Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
  3. Cut one medium head of cauliflower into florets and wash them.
  4. Grate ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
  5. Pat the pork loin dry with a paper towel.

Cooking steps

Cook the pork loin

  1. Mix garlic powder, dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
  2. Evenly coat the pork loin with the spice blend.
  3. In a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Brown the pork loin on all sides.
  4. Move the browned meat to your slow cooker.
  5. Add vegetable broth to the slow cooker, ensuring the bottom is covered and the pork isn't submerged.
  6. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender.
  7. Once cooked, take the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it sit for a few minutes.
  8. Slice the pork loin and serve with creamy mashed cauliflower.

Prepare the creamy mashed cauliflower

  1. Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until tender. Drain well.
  2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the steamed cauliflower to the saucepan and stir to coat it with the butter and garlic mixture.
  4. Remove the saucepan from heat and add the cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. Using a potato masher, mash the cauliflower until smooth and creamy.
  6. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.

Chef's pro tip

While we recommend 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high, actual cook times might differ based on your slow cooker and pork loin size. For optimal results, monitor the meat's internal temperature, which should ideally be 145°F (65°C). Also, when preparing the cauliflower, ensure it's soft but not overcooked to avoid a mushy consistency.

What to serve with slow cooker pork loin?

You can serve the slow cooker pork loin with fresh cauliflower mash or pair it with some other side dishes, like:

  • Keto Kale Salad: Light and refreshing, the simple kale salad balances the richness of the pork and cauliflower mash and makes a complete meal.
  • Mediterranean Asparagus: Serve the tender pork loin with lightly roasted asparagus as a side dish. It provides a nutty, slightly crisp element to your delicious meal.
  • Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Prepare this easy yet tasty garlic butter mushroom recipe and serve with the juicy pork loin for an appetizing meal.
  • Keto Cornbread: Serve the pork steaks with fluffy low-carb bread for a classic pairing.
Close up picture of slow-cooked pork loin showing its texture on a wooden board.

How to make it healthier?

  • Choose lean cuts: Choose pork loin cuts with minimal visible fat and trim any excess before cooking.
  • Opt for healthier broth: Go for low-sodium or unsalted vegetable broth in the slow cooker.
  • Reduce salt: Boost taste with herbs, spices, and citrus zest rather than excessive salt or fats.

Time-saving tips

  • Skip the searing process: If you're in a rush, you can skip searing the pork loin. Even without it, your slow cooker will make the meat flavorful.
  • Buy pre-cut cauliflower florets: Grab pre-cut cauliflower florets from the store to cut on prep time.
Focused shot of slow-cooked pork loin revealing its texture on a wooden board.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Cauliflower: Chop the cauliflower into florets and store them in a sealed container or zip-top bag in the fridge.
  • Vegetable broth: Make your vegetable broth in advance and keep it chilled in a tightly closed container until you're ready to use it.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage instructions

  • Room temperature: Let the leftover pork loin and mashed cauliflower cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in separate airtight containers.
  • Fridge: The leftover pork loin and cauliflower mash will remain fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Best reheating practices

  • Microwave: Put your pork loin and mashed cauliflower in a microwave-safe container. Cover and heat in short bursts, pausing to stir or turn the food halfway through.
  • Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). Put the pork loin and cauliflower mash into separate oven-proof dishes, cover with foil, and warm until heated through.
  • Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over medium heat for the pork loin. Add a touch of oil or butter and reheat the pork until it's warm. For the cauliflower mash, use a saucepan with a bit of broth or milk and stir frequently until it's heated through.
Slow-cooked pork loin served on a wooden board with mashed cauliflower.

Recipe wrap-up conclusion

Could this be the best Slow Cooker Pork Loin recipe out there? We think so! This isn't just a dish; it's a symphony of taste in a low-carb, gluten-free ensemble. The secret weapon? Your slow cooker, which effortlessly transforms the pork into tender delight.

Give this recipe a shot, and it might just become a regular on your dinner table. Savor each flavor and elevate every dining moment, bite by delicious bite!

Want to try more keto pork recipes? We bet the following will impress!

Top shot of slow-cooked pork loin and a side of mashed cauliflower on a wooden board.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, pork loin is keto-friendly. It's high in protein and low in carbs, making it an excellent choice for a keto or low-carb diet.

The amount of carbs in pork loin is very low. A typical serving contains less than 1 gram of carbs.

Cook the pork loin for 6-8 hours on low and 3-4 hours on high until it's tender and cooked through.

Slow cooking makes pork tender by breaking down its fibers. But if you cook it too long, it can get dry and less tender. It's best to follow the given cooking time.

Absolutely! If you have leftover pork loin, simply slice it and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Properly stored, it will maintain its quality for 2-3 months in the freezer.

📖 Recipe

Slow cooker pork loin served with mashed cauliflower on a wooden board.

Slow Cooker Pork Loin

This Slow Cooker Pork Loin recipe pairs succulent pork with creamy cauliflower mash, offering a keto-friendly and delicious meal with minimal effort.
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Course: dinner, Main Course
Keyword: keto pork loin roast, keto pork recipes, pork loin recipe, slow cooker pork loin
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 356kcal

Ingredients

For the pork loin

  • 2 pounds pork loin
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 cup vegetable broth

For the creamy mashed cauliflower

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower cut into florets
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Sea salt to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Cook the pork loin

  • In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, dried thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Evenly coat the pork loin with the spice blend.
  • In a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Brown the pork loin on all sides.
  • Move the browned meat to your slow cooker.
  • Add vegetable broth to the slow cooker, ensuring the bottom is covered and the pork isn't submerged.
  • Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender.
  • Once cooked, take the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it sit for a few minutes.
  • Slice the pork loin and serve with creamy mashed cauliflower.

Prepare the creamy mashed cauliflower

  • Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until tender. Drain well.
  • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
  • Add the steamed cauliflower to the saucepan and stir to coat it with the butter and garlic mixture.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and add the cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Using a potato masher, mash the cauliflower until smooth and creamy.
  • Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.

Video

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Slow Cooker Pork Loin
Amount Per Serving
Calories 356 Calories from Fat 180
% Daily Value*
Fat 20g31%
Saturated Fat 8g50%
Trans Fat 0.2g
Polyunsaturated Fat 2g
Monounsaturated Fat 8g
Cholesterol 119mg40%
Sodium 543mg24%
Potassium 888mg25%
Carbohydrates 7g2%
Fiber 2g8%
Sugar 2g2%
Protein 38g76%
Vitamin A 531IU11%
Vitamin C 47mg57%
Calcium 79mg8%
Iron 2mg11%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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