Slow Cooker Italian Herb Pork Loin
This Slow Cooker Italian Herb Pork Loin is an easy yet delicious recipe perfect for busy weeknights or festive dinners. Made with a succulent pork loin that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, this dish is infused with rich flavors from diced tomatoes, garlic, and a blend of Italian herbs. The creamy mushroom soup adds a luscious texture that pairs beautifully with your choice of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Versatile enough to work with pork chops, chicken breast, or even beef, you'll enjoy this satisfying meal any night of the week.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork Loin Roast
3 lbs (trimmed)
Diced Tomatoes with Green Pepper and Onion
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can
Cream of Mushroom Soup
1 (10 3/4 ounce) can
Garlic Cloves
6-8 (minced)
Italian Salad Dressing Mix
1 (2/3 ounce) envelope
Mixed Italian Herbs
2 teaspoons
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Place the pork loin roast at the bottom of the slow cooker for even cooking.
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes (with their juice), cream of mushroom soup, minced garlic cloves, Italian salad dressing mix, mixed Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
3
Stir the mixture until well combined, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed.
4
Pour the flavorful mixture over the pork loin in the slow cooker, making sure to cover it completely.
5
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded.
6
Once cooked, remove the pork loin from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
7
Serve the sliced pork with the creamy sauce over your choice of cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and complement with a fresh salad and garlic bread.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in the Slow Cooker Italian Herb Pork Loin?
The recipe uses a 3 lb trimmed pork loin roast.
How long should I cook the pork loin in the slow cooker?
The pork loin should be cooked on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours.
What kind of canned soup is required for this recipe?
A 10.75 ounce can of cream of mushroom soup is used to create a creamy sauce.
Can I substitute the pork loin with other meats?
Yes, this versatile recipe works well with pork chops, chicken breast, or even beef.
What type of tomatoes are recommended?
The recipe calls for one 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes with green pepper and onion.
How much garlic is needed?
You will need 6 to 8 minced garlic cloves for this dish.
What specific herbs and seasonings are included?
The recipe uses Italian salad dressing mix, mixed Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
Do I need to mix the sauce before adding it to the slow cooker?
Yes, combine the tomatoes, soup, garlic, and spices in a mixing bowl before pouring them over the pork.
What is the suggested way to serve this pork loin?
Serve the sliced pork with sauce over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, accompanied by salad and garlic bread.
Should the pork be sliced or shredded?
The pork becomes tender enough to be easily shredded, but it can also be rested and sliced.
Is it necessary to trim the pork loin?
The recipe suggests using a trimmed pork loin roast for best results.
Can I cook this recipe on the high setting?
While the recipe specifies 6 to 8 hours on low for maximum tenderness, most slow cooker recipes can be adapted to high, usually taking about half the time.
What size is the Italian salad dressing mix envelope?
The recipe uses one 2/3 ounce envelope of Italian salad dressing mix.
Do I drain the diced tomatoes?
No, use the diced tomatoes with their juice to add moisture and flavor to the sauce.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients including the pork, canned goods, and seasonings.
Is this recipe suitable for busy weeknights?
Yes, it is described as an easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights or festive dinners.
What makes the sauce creamy?
The cream of mushroom soup provides a luscious and creamy texture to the sauce.
Why should I let the pork rest after cooking?
Letting the pork rest for a few minutes after removal from the slow cooker helps it retain its juices for easier slicing.
Does this recipe require a lot of prep work?
No, the prep involves simple mixing and placing ingredients in the slow cooker.
Is there a specific way to place the pork in the slow cooker?
Place the roast at the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
What amount of mixed Italian herbs is used?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of mixed Italian herbs.
Can I add extra salt and pepper?
Yes, salt and pepper should be added to taste.
What are the primary flavors of this dish?
The dish is infused with rich flavors of garlic, Italian herbs, and savory mushroom sauce.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
While not explicitly stated, a 3 lb pork loin typically serves 6 to 8 people.
Does the recipe use fresh or dried herbs?
The recipe uses mixed Italian herbs and a dry salad dressing mix, but fresh garlic is used.
What is the texture of the finished pork?
The pork becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Can I use plain diced tomatoes?
You can, but using the version with green pepper and onion adds extra depth to the flavor profile.
Is this a good meal for families?
Yes, it is tagged as a family meal and is designed to be satisfying for groups.
Should I cover the pork completely with the sauce?
Yes, the instructions state to pour the mixture over the pork loin, making sure to cover it completely.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to place the pork loin roast at the bottom of the slow cooker.