There’s something magical about the aroma of BBQ wafting through the house, especially on a cozy weekend afternoon. Whenever I make these Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin Burgers, I’m reminded of summer barbecues with friends and family, even if it’s snowing outside! The best part? You can set it and forget it. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and go about your day, only to return to a flavorful, mouth-watering creation that will make your taste buds sing!
This recipe is not just a go-to for its incredible taste but also for its versatility. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner, a game day gathering, or just a casual weeknight meal, these burgers hit the spot every time. Plus, I love how this dish brings everyone together—friends hovering around the table with their buns ready, ready to pile on the BBQ goodness. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so amazing!
What’s in Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin Burger?
Pork Tenderloin: The star of the show! Pork tenderloin is lean, tender, and perfect for shredding. It absorbs the barbecue flavor beautifully.
BBQ Sauce: You can’t have BBQ pulled pork without a fabulous sauce! I usually go for a sweet and tangy sauce, but feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade version.
Onion: A onion added for that sweet, aromatic flavor. I love using yellow onions because they get so caramelized and delicious while cooking.
Garlic: It adds that essential savory kick! You can use fresh cloves, or I sometimes go the easy route with garlic powder.
Burger Buns: Choose your favorite! I love using brioche or whole wheat buns for a bit of sweetness and texture.
Slaw (optional): A refreshing slaw is the perfect crunchy topping for these burgers. Whether you go for coleslaw or a zesty slaw of your choice, it adds a nice contrast to the tender pork.
Is Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin Burger Good for You?
Absolutely! While we’re indulging in a delicious burger, it’s important to be aware of what we’re putting into our bodies.
Pork Tenderloin: Rich in protein and essential vitamins like B6 and niacin, pork tenderloin is a fantastic lean meat choice. Just remember to keep the portions moderate to enjoy its benefits fully.
BBQ Sauce: Here’s where it’s a bit of a double-edged sword. Depending on the brand, BBQ sauce can be high in sugar, so I always look for a low-sugar or homemade version to keep things healthier.
Onions and Garlic: Both these ingredients not only enhance flavor but also have health benefits. Onions are great for heart health, and garlic can help boost your immune system.
When you add slaw, you’re not just adding a crunchy topping but also that burst of vitamins if you use fresh vegetables!
Ingredients
– 2 pounds pork tenderloin
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (I love Sweet Baby Ray’s)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
– 4 burger buns (brioche or whole wheat suggested)
– Slaw of choice (optional)
– Serving: Serves 4-6 hungry burger lovers
How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin Burger?
1. Begin by placing the sliced onion at the bottom of your slow cooker. It creates a lovely bed for the pork tenderloin to rest on.
2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and garlic (if using powder, sprinkle it on).
3. Place the seasoned pork on top of the onions and pour your BBQ sauce over it. Make sure it’s well-coated!
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours. You want the pork to be fall-apart tender!
5. Once cooked, use two forks to shred the pork right in the slow cooker, mixing it well with the sauce and onions.
6. Toast your burger buns lightly for that perfect crunch.
7. Pile the pulled pork on the bottom half of the bun. If you’re adding slaw, throw that on top for some added crunch!
8. Cap it with the top half of the bun, serve, and enjoy!
Sweet Tips & Variations
– For a fun twist, try different BBQ sauce flavors! A spicy variant can bring a fiery kick.
– Feel free to experiment with toppings! Pickles, jalapeños, or even a fried egg can elevate your burger experience!
– If you’re in a hurry, use a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker. The pork will still turn out tender, but in a fraction of the time.
I can’t tell you enough how much everyone loves these burgers! They are simple, delicious, and really bring people together. So why not give this Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork Tenderloin Burger a go? I’d love to hear about your experience or variations! Happy cooking, my friends!
