Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin

If you’re looking for a cozy and delicious meal that feels just like a warm hug, my Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin is the answer! This dish has become a favorite in my home because it combines the rich flavors of tender beef with the sweet and spicy notes of apple butter. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, letting you enjoy time with your loved ones while the slow cooker does all the work.

Imagine coming home to the tantalizing aroma of this delightful dish, ready to be served over cheesy grits. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will surely impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it!
• Family-friendly appeal: The sweet and savory flavor combination makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Deliciously flavorful: The apple butter glaze adds a unique twist that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!
• Comfort food at its best: This dish brings warmth and satisfaction, making every bite feel like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one plays an important role in creating that mouthwatering flavor. Let’s gather everything we need for our Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin!

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

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts or thighs instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some carrots or potatoes to make it even heartier.
• Serve differently: Instead of cheesy grits, serve with mashed potatoes or rice for variety.

How to Make Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by mixing together the light brown sugar, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and thyme. This spice rub is essential because it creates a flavor base that enhances the richness of the beef. Rub this mixture all over your beef tenderloin to ensure every inch is seasoned beautifully.

Step 2: Place in Slow Cooker

Once your beef is seasoned, place it gently into your slow cooker. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together perfectly while keeping your meat incredibly tender.

Step 3: Whisk Together Glaze

In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple butter, apple cider vinegar, and whole grain mustard. This glaze not only adds sweetness but also brings a tangy contrast that pairs wonderfully with savory meat. Pour this mixture evenly over your tenderloin in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Put on the lid and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Cooking low and slow allows those flavors to develop deeply while keeping your beef juicy. Before serving, shred the meat lightly with two forks; this helps incorporate all that delicious glaze throughout.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, serve your Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin over cheesy grits (and bacon if desired). Sit back and watch as everyone savors each bite!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin

Making the perfect Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin is all about a few key techniques to ensure your dish turns out mouthwatering every time.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for grass-fed or organic beef tenderloin if possible, as it generally offers better flavor and tenderness, making your dish even more delicious.
• Don’t Skip the Rub: Massaging the spice rub into the meat not only enhances flavor but also helps create a delightful crust that locks in moisture during slow cooking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the beef to rest after cooking lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful when it’s shredded and served.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Depending on your preference, you can add more or less apple butter. This flexibility allows you to balance sweetness with savory notes perfectly.
• Experiment with Mustards: Don’t hesitate to substitute whole grain mustard for Dijon or spicy mustard if you want to tweak the flavor profile a bit. Each type brings its unique character to the dish!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin

Presenting your Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed Beef Tenderloin beautifully will not only make it more appetizing but also impress your guests! Here are some ideas for serving this hearty meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or chives sprinkled over the top not only add color but also freshen up the flavors of the dish.
• Apple Slices: Thinly sliced apples arranged around the beef can provide a lovely contrast in both texture and taste, tying back to the apple butter ingredient.

Side Dishes

• Cheesy Grits: Creamy and comforting, cheesy grits are an excellent base that complements the rich flavors of the beef while adding a satisfying texture.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a slight crunch and a hint of bitterness that balances out the sweetness of the apple butter glaze.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide another comforting option that pairs wonderfully with tender beef.
• Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add a fresh and crunchy element to your plate, brightening up your meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin is perfect for meal prep, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights. You can easily prepare this dish in advance and enjoy its rich flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beef to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the beef into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you with your Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin.

Can I use other cuts of beef instead of tenderloin?

Yes! While beef tenderloin is a great choice due to its tenderness, you can also use cuts like sirloin or chuck roast. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin?

If you prefer a less sweet flavor, simply reduce the amount of apple butter and brown sugar. You can also add extra mustard or vinegar to balance out the sweetness.

Is there a great side dish pairing for this recipe?

Absolutely! Cheesy grits are a delicious option that complements the flavors of the Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin perfectly. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Can I make this recipe in advance for a gathering?

Certainly! This dish is perfect for gatherings as it can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat before serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy to your table as it has to mine! The combination of flavors in this Slow Cooker Apple Butter Glazed beef Tenderloin is truly special, making it an ideal comfort food for any occasion. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with friends and family. Happy cooking!