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Savory Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze

savory pork tenderloin apple cider glaze - featured image

A quick and easy pork tenderloin recipe featuring a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze that creates a juicy, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds fresh pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat and silver skin
  • 1 cup unsweetened apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Trim any silver skin or excess fat. Season all over generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the pork for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Start checking at 12 minutes to avoid overcooking.
  5. While the pork roasts, make the apple cider glaze: In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (if using), minced garlic, and fresh thyme.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it reduce until it thickens slightly, about 8-10 minutes. The glaze should coat the back of a spoon but not be too syrupy.
  7. Once reduced, whisk in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to give the glaze a silky, rich finish. Remove from heat and set aside.
  8. Remove the pork from the oven and brush the apple cider glaze all over the tenderloin generously. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
  9. Slice the pork into ½-inch (1.3 cm) thick medallions. Drizzle any remaining glaze on top before serving.

Notes

If the glaze thickens too much, stir in a splash of water or apple cider to loosen it. Tent the pork loosely with foil if it reaches temperature before the glaze is ready. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Let the pork rest after roasting for juicy slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork tenderloin, apple cider glaze, easy pork recipe, savory pork, quick dinner, family meal, gluten-free, low-carb