Description
A simple, comforting pork tenderloin recipe with a sticky honey garlic glaze that balances sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1/4 cup honey (85g)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (60ml)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15ml)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots (optional)
- Steamed rice or mashed potatoes (optional)
Instructions
- Trim any silver skin or excess fat from the tenderloin with a sharp knife. Pat dry with paper towels and season all over with black pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes if using. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until nicely browned, about 2 minutes per side.
- Pour the honey garlic glaze over the pork in the skillet. Use tongs or a spoon to coat the pork in the sauce.
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes, basting the pork with the glaze halfway through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the tenderloin from the oven and transfer to a cutting board. Let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice into 1/2-inch thick medallions. Spoon any extra glaze from the pan over the slices.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or sliced green onions if desired. Serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
Do not skip searing to develop a caramelized crust. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; aim for 145°F internal temperature. Rest the meat before slicing to keep it juicy. Make the glaze ahead to intensify flavors. Baste the pork halfway through roasting for a thicker glaze. Substitute rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar if needed. Use vegetable or avocado oil if olive oil is unavailable. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Reduce honey for lower sugar or substitute with maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the pork tend
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 35
Keywords: honey garlic pork, pork tenderloin recipe, easy pork dinner, glazed pork tenderloin, weeknight dinner, honey garlic glaze