Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin

Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin is a delightful dish that combines tender beef with the sweet and tangy flavors of apple butter. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any special occasion where you want to impress your guests. The slow cooker method ensures that the beef turns out juicy and full of flavor, making it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply set it and forget it! The slow cooker does all the work for you.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of apple butter, spices, and vinegar creates a deliciously complex taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with cheesy grits, mashed potatoes, or on a sandwich for leftovers.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and use leftovers creatively throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will enjoy this comforting dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready allows you to focus on making a delicious Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Ensures even cooking and allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining spices and marinades without creating a mess.
• Whisk: Helps in achieving a smooth mixture when combining ingredients like apple butter and vinegar.

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Ingredients

A few simple ingredients make for a standout meal with my Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin served over cheesy grits with a side of Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon.

For the Beef

• 2 lbs beef tenderloin
• 1 tbsp light brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp thyme

For the Glaze

• 3/4 cup apple butter
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp whole grain mustard

How to Make Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Mix together the brown sugar, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and thyme. Rub this mixture on all sides of the beef tenderloin. Place the seasoned tenderloin in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the apple butter, apple cider vinegar, and whole grain mustard. Pour this glaze evenly over the beef in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Put the lid on the slow cooker. Set it to cook on LOW for 6 – 8 hours or HIGH for 3 – 4 hours. Once done, shred the meat before serving to allow it to soak up more flavor.

Step 4: Serve

Enjoy your flavorful Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin served over cheesy grits with a side of Turkey Turkey Turkey Bacon.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin

Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin is a delicious dish that can be served in various ways. Its sweet and savory flavors make it a versatile main course suitable for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Cheesy Grits

• Creamy cheesy grits complement the tender beef beautifully. The richness of the grits balances the sweetness of the apple butter glaze.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and extra protein to your meal. Serve the beef over cooked quinoa for a healthy twist.

In Tacos

• Shred the beef and serve it in warm tortillas with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and salsa for a fun taco night.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pairing the beef with roasted vegetables enhances the meal’s flavor profile. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes work wonderfully.

As a Sandwich

• Create a hearty sandwich using sliced beef, crusty bread, and your favorite condiments. It’s perfect for leftovers!

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin

To ensure your Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select high-quality beef tenderloin for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices enhance the dish’s overall taste. Replace old spices with new ones for maximum flavor.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the meat to rest before shredding. This helps retain moisture.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your slow cooker model, cooking times may vary. Check for doneness around 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different herbs or spices based on your preference to customize the glaze.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy this dish warm for optimal flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin can enhance the meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs well with rich meats.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet glaze of the beef.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
5. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds create a delightful texture and flavor combination.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar add brightness and acidity to balance the meal.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer natural sweetness and can be topped with cinnamon or brown sugar for extra flavor.
8. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad provides a light and refreshing side dish that complements the richness of the beef tenderloin.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin is a delicious dish, but common mistakes can ruin your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Many forget to season the beef tenderloin properly. Make sure to rub the spice mix all over for full flavor.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: If your slow cooker is too full, the beef may not cook evenly. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Not using enough liquid: The apple butter provides moisture, but if you don’t add vinegar, it may dry out. Always ensure there’s adequate liquid in the pot.
• Cooking at the wrong temperature: Cooking on HIGH might seem faster, but LOW ensures tender results. Follow recommended cooking times for optimal tenderness.
• Forgetting to shred before serving: Shredding helps distribute flavors throughout the meat. Don’t skip this step for a more enjoyable meal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin and their answers.

Can I use other meats instead of beef?

You can certainly try chicken or turkey! Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I customize my Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or potatoes for a complete meal.

What side dishes go well with this recipe?

Besides cheesy grits, consider serving with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge before reheating.

Final Thoughts

The Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin is a remarkable dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors. It’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners. You can customize it with various sides or add your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste. Give it a try!