Ingredients
For the pork
– 2½–3 lb (1.1–1.4 kg) boneless pork loin
– 1½ lb (680 g) baby potatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 5 cloves garlic, minced
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon dried thyme
– ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
For the honey garlic sauce
– ⅓ cup honey
– ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
– ¼ cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
For thickening (optional)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons cold water
For garnish
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Extra minced garlic, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the pork
1. Remove the pork loin from its packaging.
2. Pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Mix salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary in a small bowl.
4. Rub the seasoning mixture over all sides of the pork.
5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Sear the pork for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
2. Prepare the potatoes
1. Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly.
2. Cut larger potatoes in half.
3. Arrange them in the bottom of the slow cooker.
4. Sprinkle with a little salt and black pepper.
5. Add half of the minced garlic over the potatoes.
3. Make the honey garlic sauce
1. In a mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Add the remaining minced garlic.
3. Whisk until everything is well combined.
4. Assemble the slow cooker
1. Place the seasoned pork loin on top of the potatoes.
2. Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over the pork.
3. Use a spoon to coat the top of the pork with the sauce.
4. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
5. Slow cook
1. Cook on LOW for approximately 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2½–3½ hours.
2. Cooking time depends on the size and thickness of the pork.
3. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
4. Pork loin should reach at least 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest.
5. Make sure the potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Thicken the sauce (optional)
1. Carefully remove the pork and potatoes.
2. Pour the cooking liquid into a small saucepan.
3. Mix cornstarch and cold water in a separate bowl.
4. Whisk the mixture into the sauce.
5. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thick and glossy.
7. Serve
1. Let the pork rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
2. Slice into thick pieces.
3. Arrange the pork and potatoes on a serving platter.
4. Spoon the honey garlic sauce over everything.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings.
Nutrient Amount
Calories 420–480 kcal
Protein 38–44 g
Carbohydrates 35–42 g
Total Fat 12–17 g
Saturated Fat 3–5 g
Fiber 3–4 g
Sugar 15–20 g
Sodium 550–800 mg
Nutrition values vary with pork size, potato portions, and sauce ingredients.
Nut & Allergen Information
No nuts intentionally included
– Peanuts: Not included in the basic recipe.
– Tree nuts: Not included in the basic recipe.
– Dairy: Naturally dairy-free.
– Soy: Contains soy sauce.
– Wheat/Gluten: Regular soy sauce and some Worcestershire sauces may contain wheat or gluten. Use certified gluten-free alternatives if needed.
– Mustard: Contains Dijon mustard.
Always check ingredient labels and cross-contact warnings, especially for people with food allergies.
Q/S – Questions & Suggestions
Q: Can I use pork shoulder instead of pork loin?
Yes! Pork shoulder works well, but it contains more fat and may require a longer cooking time. It is especially good for shredding.
Q: Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold or red potatoes work beautifully. Cut them into evenly sized chunks.
Q: Can I make this recipe without honey?
Yes. Maple syrup is a good substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Q: Can I skip searing the pork?
Yes! You can place the seasoned pork directly into the slow cooker. Searing simply adds extra flavor and color.
Q: How do I make the sauce thicker?
Use the cornstarch slurry described above and simmer until the sauce becomes glossy.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Carrots, onions, green beans, and mushrooms are delicious additions.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container within 2 hours and enjoy within 3–4 days. Reheat until steaming hot.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2–3 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Q: What can I serve with honey garlic pork?
Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, roasted carrots, fresh salad, or dinner rolls.
Chef’s Tips
– Choose pork loin rather than pork tenderloin because they have different cooking times.
– Searing the pork before slow cooking adds a deeper, richer flavor.
– Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid too often.
– Use a meat thermometer instead of relying only on cooking time.
– Let the pork rest before slicing to help retain its juices.
– Spoon extra honey garlic sauce over the pork just before serving.
Serving Suggestion: Serve thick slices of honey garlic pork with tender potatoes and plenty of glossy garlic sauce for a delicious family-style dinner!