This instant pot balsamic pork tenderloin is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, all wrapped up in a tender, juicy pork tenderloin that's cooked to perfection. Plus, it's not only gluten-free but is also family-friendly which makes it a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
The best part? The combination of spices and balsamic glaze caramelizes beautifully under the broiler.
This extra step, while not common in many recipes, is what takes this slow cooker pork to the next level. The result is a tenderloin that's both crispy and juicy, with an unbeatable flavor!
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The pork tenderloin tastes incredible and is perfect for just about any occasion. The special maple spice mixture adds a depth of flavor that makes it absolutely delicious.
What’s more is that this recipe is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways - on a roll, in a quesadilla, or even on top of quinoa.
Give this recipe a try, and trust me, you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again.
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Balsamic Pork Tenderloin
- Quick and Easy: This instant pot balsamic pork tenderloin recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. With a slow cooker doing most of the work, you can have your meal ready with minimal hands-on time.
- Gluten-Free: This tender, flavorful pork tenderloin is completely gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to reduce their gluten intake.
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe calls for simple, easy-to-find ingredients. All you need is pork tenderloin, water, a spice mixture, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar. You can even create your own spice mix.
- Family-Friendly: This balsamic pork tenderloin is a hit with the whole family. Its sweet, tangy flavor appeals to both adults and kids alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.
- Versatile: The tender, flavorful pork can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you put it on a roll, in a quesadilla, or on top of quinoa, it is guaranteed to be a hit.
- Perfect for Beginner Cooks: This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for beginner cooks. The slow cooker does most of the work, and the final broil step is simple but adds a delicious, caramelized finish.
Ingredients
This instant pot balsamic pork tenderloin recipe calls for simple ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Many of these ingredients may already be in your pantry, making this recipe even more convenient!
- Pork Tenderloin: The star of the show, pork tenderloin, is a lean, tender cut of meat that cooks beautifully in the instant pot. Its mild flavor is a perfect canvas for the balsamic glaze and spices.
- Water: Used as a base for the instant pot, water helps guarantee that the pork tenderloin cooks evenly and stays juicy.
- Maple Spice Mixture: This blend of spices including salt, pepper, garlic, basil, marjoram, ground mustard, and brown sugar adds a sweet and savory depth to the pork. You can find pre-made maple spice mixtures at certain grocery stores, or make your own with pantry staples.
- Balsamic Vinegar: This is where the tangy magic happens. Balsamic vinegar gives the pork a rich, sweet and sour flavor that caramelizes beautifully when broiled in the oven.
- Brown Sugar: Used in both the spice mixture and the glaze, brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of the vinegar. It also aids in caramelization, giving the pork a deliciously crispy exterior.
How to Make Instant Pot Balsamic Pork Tenderloin
Ready to cook a delicious and hearty meal? Here's how to make instant pot balsamic pork tenderloin! For more detailed instructions and nutrition facts, see the recipe card at the end of this post.
Step 1.
Season the Pork: Start by rubbing the pork with your chosen spice mixture. I found a delicious mix called Harvest Maple at Harris Teeter, but you can also simply use salt and pepper if you prefer.
Step 2.
Slow Cook the Pork: Place the seasoned pork into your slow cooker and add ½ cup of water. Set the cooker on low and let it cook for 6-8 hours.
Step 3.
Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: Just before the pork is done, combine vinegar, water and brown sugar in a small saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer until it thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.
Step 4.
Preheat the Broiler: Turn your broiler on low and position the rack in the top third of the oven.
Step 5.
Prepare the Pork for Broiling: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a foil-lined cookie sheet. Gently shred the pork into large pieces using a fork, then brush these pieces with some of the balsamic glaze.
Step 6.
Broil the Pork: Place the pork under the low broiler and watch it carefully. Broil until it starts to brown to your liking. I left mine in for about 8 minutes, but this will depend on your oven. Remember to remove the pork at least once to baste it with more of the glaze.
Step 7.
Serve: Serve your delicious balsamic pork tenderloin with any remaining glaze on the side. Enjoy your meal!
Variations
- Vegetarian: If you're a vegetarian, you can substitute the pork with portobello mushrooms. They have a meaty texture and will absorb the balsamic glaze beautifully. Remember to adjust the cooking time as mushrooms cook faster than pork.
- Chicken: Substitute the pork with chicken breasts for a leaner protein option. Chicken takes well to the balsamic glaze and the result is a tangy, sweet and savory dish that will definitely impress.
- Spice It Up: If you like your food with a kick, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze. The heat will balance the sweetness of the glaze and add an exciting twist to the dish.
- Herbs: Add a bunch of fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the slow cooker. The herbs will infuse the pork with their aroma and flavor, adding another layer of complexity to the dish.
Helpful Tips
Making instant pot balsamic pork tenderloin is a simple and delicious way to serve a meal that your family will love. However, these helpful tips can enhance your cooking experience and guarantee the best results:
- Season the pork well: Rub your pork tenderloin with a maple spice mixture or a combination of salt, pepper, garlic, basil, marjoram, ground mustard, and brown sugar. Proper seasoning will infuse your pork with an array of delicious flavors.
- Master the balsamic glaze: Add vinegar, water, and brown sugar to a saucepan and bring it to a boil, then simmer until it thickens. This balsamic glaze will give your pork a tangy, sweet flavor that's irresistible.
- Don't skip the broiling step: After slow cooking, shred the pork into big pieces, brush them with some of the balsamic glaze, and broil until it starts to brown. This step enhances the flavor and gives the pork a delicious, crispy texture.
- Experiment with serving options: This balsamic pork is versatile. Serve it on a roll, in a quesadilla, or on top of quinoa for a wonderful meal.
- Try making your own spice mix: If you can't find a ready-made maple spice mixture, make your own using salt, pepper, garlic, basil, marjoram, ground mustard, and brown sugar. This allows you to control the flavors and customize the dish to your liking.
Dietary Substitutions
This instant pot balsamic pork tenderloin recipe is already gluten-free, thanks to the use of spices and balsamic vinegar, which are naturally gluten-free. However, it may need some tweaks to fit other dietary restrictions. Here are some suggestions:
- To Make This Recipe Vegan-Friendly: To make this recipe vegan-friendly, replace the pork tenderloin with a plant-based meat substitute like seitan or tofu. Make sure that your substitute is gluten-free if necessary.
- To Make This Recipe Whole30 and Paleo-Compatible: This recipe is almost Paleo and Whole30 compatible. Just replace the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like raw honey or pure maple syrup.
- To Make This Recipe Keto-Friendly: To make this recipe keto-friendly, replace the brown sugar with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia. Be sure to adjust the amount used to taste, as these sweeteners are often sweeter than regular sugar.
Storage Instructions
- To Refrigerate: Leftovers of this instant pot balsamic pork tenderloin can be stored in the refrigerator. Simply place them in an airtight container and they should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- To Freeze: Unfortunately, due to the delicate texture of the pork tenderloin and the balsamic glaze, this dish doesn't freeze well. Freezing could result in a change of texture and loss of flavor.
- To Reheat: When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in the oven on low broil to preserve that delightful caramelization from the balsamic syrup. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but remember to cover the dish to avoid any mess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the maple spice mixture in this recipe?
Can I cook this recipe without a slow cooker?
Why do I need to broil the pork at the end of the cooking process?
Can I substitute the balsamic vinegar with something else?
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Serving Suggestions
This instant pot balsamic pork tenderloin is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides to create a wholesome, gluten-free meal. Here are some of our favorite serving suggestions:
- Salads: This tenderloin pairs beautifully with fresh salads. Try it with a classic Caesar salad, a tangy Greek salad, or a hearty Greek quinoa salad.
- Mains: Serve this balsamic pork tenderloin as a main course with sides like roasted vegetables like roasted green beans, roasted broccolini, mashed sweet potatoes, or a wild rice blend.
- Sides: Compliment this dish with gluten-free sides such as grilled asparagus, sautéed brussels sprouts, or a warm corn salad.
- Perfect Side For Sandwiches: Slice this tenderloin thinly and serve it in a gluten-free sandwich or wrap for a quick, protein-packed lunch.
- For Taco Night: Swap out your usual taco filling with slices of this balsamic pork tenderloin. Pair it with gluten-free tortillas and your favorite taco toppings for a fun, gluten-free twist on taco night.
Recipe Card
Slow Cooker Balsamic Pork
Ingredients
- 1 ½ - 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- ½ cup water
- maple spice mixture or salt, pepper, garlic, basil, marjoram, ground mustard, brown sugar
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
Instructions
- Rub pork with spice mixture. (I was lucky to find a spice mix called Harvest Maple at Harris Teeter. I've listed the spices included above in the recipe but you could also just use salt and pepper.)
- Put seasoned pork into the slow cooker and add ½ cup water.
- Turn on low and cook for 6-8 hours.
- Right before it's done add the vinegar, water and brown sugar to a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Turn down to low and simmer until it thickens about 5 minutes.
- Turn broiler on low. Place rack in top third of the oven.
- Remove pork from slow cooker, place on a foil lined cookie sheet and gently shred with a fork into big pieces. Brush pieces with some of the balsamic glaze.
- Place under the low broiler and watch carefully. Broil it until it starts to brown to your liking. I left mine in for about 8 minutes but this will depend on your oven. Remove at least once to baste with more of the glaze.
- Serve with any remaining glaze on the side.
Notes
Nutrition
Notes: I found the maple spice mixture in the spices section at Harris Teeter. You can also make your own by using a combination of salt, pepper, garlic, basil, marjoram, ground mustard and brown sugar. Or you can just use salt, pepper and garlic powder. The balsamic vinegar gives this pork plenty of flavor.
Jenni (@GingeredWhisk) says
This looks great! My birthday is right after Christmas, too - its rough! But Chipotle would make it better!
Karen Kelly says
Aw thanks Jenni. Hope you had a great birthday!
Kim says
Does the maple spice mixture actually have maple syrup in it?
Karen Kelly says
Hi Kim, The spice mixture has salt, basil, marjoram, ground mustard and brown sugar. Hope that helps!
Mayra Ybarra says
Hi. Can i make this with Pork loin and what would i need to modify?
Karen Kelly says
Hi there I haven't tried it with pork loin but I think it should work!