Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this creamy garlic pork tenderloin will become a family favorite.
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Only 6 ingredients. Pork, Alfredo sauce, broth, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt.
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No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Built-in sauce. Rich, creamy, and garlicky.
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Crowd-pleasing. Tender pork and creamy sauce.
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Budget-friendly. Pork tenderloin is affordable and lean.
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Versatile. Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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2 pounds pork tenderloin (1–2 pieces)
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1 (15–16 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
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1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
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4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder)
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
Ingredient Notes
Pork tenderloin: Use pork tenderloin, not pork loin. Tenderloin is lean and cooks to tender perfection in the slow cooker. If using two smaller tenderloins, lay them side by side. Tuck the thinner ends underneath so they cook evenly.
Alfredo sauce: Use a good quality jarred Alfredo sauce. The sauce provides the creamy base. Do not use low-fat or fat-free versions, which may separate during cooking.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Low-sodium broth is preferred. The Alfredo sauce already contains salt. Low-sodium broth gives you more control.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor. Garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs adds depth. Oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary are typical.
Kosher salt: Seasons the dish and brings out the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Place the Pork in the Slow Cooker
Place the pork tenderloin in the bottom of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. If using two smaller tenderloins, lay them side by side and tuck the thinner ends underneath so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the jar of Alfredo sauce, chicken broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and kosher salt until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Pour the Alfredo mixture evenly over the raw pork tenderloin in the slow cooker. Make sure the pork is mostly covered in sauce. Use a spoon to nudge the sauce around the sides if needed.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours, or on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours. The pork is ready when it is very tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Slow cookers can vary, so start checking on the earlier end of the time range.
Step 5: Rest and Shred
Transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, give the sauce in the slow cooker a quick stir. If it looks a little separated, just whisk it for a few seconds until creamy again.
Slice or shred the pork tenderloin. Return it to the slow cooker and gently toss it in the warm creamy garlic Alfredo sauce until well coated.
Step 6: Serve
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with a pinch more salt if needed. Serve the creamy garlic pork hot with extra sauce spooned over the top.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Pork Tenderloin
This creamy, savory pork is delicious on its own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
Over Pasta: Serve over fettuccine, linguine, or your favorite pasta.
Over Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce is perfect over mashed potatoes.
Over Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the sauce beautifully.
With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted green beans, broccoli, or asparagus add color and balance.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
With Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up extra sauce.
Variations & Tips
Make It With Different Herbs: Use rosemary, thyme, or sage instead of Italian seasoning.
Make It With Mushrooms: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker.
Make It With Onion: Add 1 sliced onion to the slow cooker.
Make It With Spinach: Add 2 cups of fresh spinach during the last 30 minutes.
Make It With Parmesan: Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan at the end.
Make It With White Wine: Substitute 1/4 cup of the broth with white wine.
Make It With Chicken: Substitute chicken breasts or thighs for the pork.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Alfredo sauce.
Make It in the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Layer ingredients in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 45 to 55 minutes.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Tuck the thin ends of the tenderloin under. This ensures even cooking.
Do not add extra liquid. The pork releases moisture as it cooks.
Do not lift the lid during cooking. Each time you remove the lid, heat escapes and you add time.
Let the pork rest before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Shred or slice the pork before serving. This makes it easier to coat in the sauce.
Stir the sauce before serving. The sauce may separate slightly during cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
Pork loin is leaner and can become dry. Tenderloin is recommended.
Can I use frozen pork?
Yes. Add 1 to 2 hours to the cook time on LOW. Do not thaw first.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes. Cook on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours. However, LOW is preferred for more tender pork.
Can I double this recipe?
Only if your slow cooker is at least 7 quarts. Do not fill more than two-thirds full.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes. Place the pork and sauce in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce separated?
The Alfredo sauce can separate during long cooking. Whisk it vigorously before serving.
Why is my pork tough?
It did not cook long enough. Pork tenderloin needs time to become tender.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes. Add mushrooms, onions, or spinach.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup can be substituted.
The Beauty of Creamy Sauces
There is something deeply satisfying about a dish with a rich, creamy sauce. It is the kind of food that feels like comfort. It is the kind of food that makes you want to sit down and savor every bite.
This creamy garlic pork tenderloin is a perfect example. The pork becomes tender. The sauce is rich and garlicky. The whole thing comes together with almost no effort.
Keep pork tenderloin in your freezer. Keep Alfredo sauce and broth in your pantry. Keep garlic and seasonings in your kitchen. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–6 hours on LOW or 2 1/2–3 1/2 hours on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 4 to 6 hours
Yield: 6 servings