If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal, this honey garlic pork tenderloin recipe is perfect for you! It’s packed with flavor, juicy on the inside, and caramelized on the outside. Plus, it’s simple to make and uses everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for extra richness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
Start by patting the pork tenderloin dry with a paper towel. This helps to get a nice sear. Season all sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Pork
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear it on all sides until golden brown. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Once seared, remove it from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium-low and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Pork in the Sauce
Return the pork tenderloin to the pan and spoon the sauce over it. Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the pork from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!
For extra flavor, stir 1 tablespoon of butter into the sauce before drizzling it over the sliced pork.
Serving Suggestions
This honey garlic pork tenderloin pairs well with:
- Steamed rice or mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or green beans
- Fresh salad for a lighter meal
Tips for the Best Pork Tenderloin
- Don’t overcook! Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Sear first for flavor. This gives the pork a beautiful crust and enhances the taste.
- Let it rest before slicing. This keeps the juices inside and makes it more tender.
- Use fresh garlic. It gives a stronger, richer flavor compared to garlic powder.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes! This honey garlic sauce works great with chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the microwave.
3. Can I bake this instead of cooking it on the stove?
Yes! Sear the pork first, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.
5. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the pork in the sauce for a few hours before cooking for extra flavor.
Enjoy your homemade honey garlic pork tenderloin! Let us know how it turned out in the comments. Happy cooking!
