Oh, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite comfort foods: Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin Burgers! Whenever I whip up this dish, it transports me back to backyard barbecues and cozy family gatherings. The aroma that fills my kitchen while the tenderloin slowly cooks away is simply irresistible, and I can never wait to dig in!
Some of my fondest memories revolve around summer cookouts when my family would gather for good food and even better company. This pulled pork recipe is perfect for any occasion. The meat is so tender it practically falls apart – just the way I like it! Plus, it’s a breeze to make in a slow cooker, allowing me to go about my day while it works its magic.
So, if you’re looking for a simple yet mouthwatering recipe that will impress your family and friends, then let’s dive right in!
What’s in Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin Burger?
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the show! It’s super lean and tender, perfect for a slow cook. I prefer to use organic pork if I can find it, for both taste and peace of mind.
BBQ Sauce: This adds that rich, smoky flavor that pulls everything together. I usually have a go-to brand that’s sweet and tangy – look for one without high fructose corn syrup for a healthier option!
Onion: Aromatic and flavorful, the onion caramelizes beautifully as the pork cooks, adding depth to the dish.
Garlic: I’m all about that garlic love! It enhances the flavors and brings everything together. Feel free to use fresh cloves or minced garlic from a jar.
Seasonings: A generous sprinkle of salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne gives a flavor punch. You can adjust the spices based on your personal preference.
Buns: For serving the pulled pork, I love using soft brioche or whole wheat buns, which soak up the juices perfectly and make for a hearty burger.
Is Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin Burger Good for You?
Absolutely! When made with care, these burgers come packed with nutrients.
Pork Tenderloin: This cut of meat is high in protein and low in fat, making it a great choice for your daily protein intake without the added calories.
BBQ Sauce: While store-bought versions can vary, choosing a sauce with natural ingredients and reduced sugar can keep this burger lighter.
On the flip side, if you’re watching your sodium intake, be mindful of the amount in the sauce and seasonings – it’s easy to overdo it!
Ingredients List
– 1.5 to 2 pounds of Pork Tenderloin
– 1 cup of BBQ Sauce (your favorite variety)
– 1 large Onion, sliced
– 3 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Salt
– 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
– 1 teaspoon Paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne (adjust for spice preference)
– 4 Buns (brioche or whole wheat work great)
This recipe serves about 4 people, but beware – my friends and I often devour it in a single sitting!
How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin Burger?
1. **Prep the Tenderloin:** Start by seasoning the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne. Rub it in well so all that flavor seeps in.
2. **Layer It Up:** In your slow cooker, place the sliced onion and garlic at the bottom. Then put the seasoned tenderloin on top. Pour the BBQ sauce over the meat, making sure it’s all covered.
3. **Set It and Forget It:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when it shreds easily with a fork!
4. **Shred the Pork:** Once it’s finished cooking, take the tenderloin out, shred it with two forks, and mix it back into the sauce in the slow cooker for maximum juiciness.
5. **Assemble Your Burgers:** Serve the pulled pork on your buns and drizzle a little extra BBQ sauce on top if you’re feeling indulgent!
6. **Dig In:** Serve with a side of coleslaw or some crispy fries, and enjoy that deliciousness!
Serving Suggestions and More Tips
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, try adding some pickles or jalapeños on top for a little crunch! You could also mix in some coleslaw with your pulled pork for that classic BBQ combo.
One little tip I’ve learned is to make extra – this pulled pork is even better the next day as leftovers! You can throw it on nachos, stir it into scrambled eggs, or mix it with pasta for a completely new meal.
I hope you give this Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin Burger a try! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you – so share your experiences and maybe even some fun twists of your own. Happy cooking!
