Get ready to fall in love with a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory in every bite—the Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe. This irresistible pork tenderloin is beautifully tender, kissed by the natural sweetness of apple cider and honey while being enriched with a subtle hint of Dijon mustard and a touch of garlic. The glaze caramelizes on the outside, creating a gorgeous, flavorful crust that makes this dish perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just looking for a delicious recipe to impress your loved ones, this Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients often make the best dishes, and this Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe is no exception. Each element plays a crucial role—whether it’s building the glaze’s sweet tang, seasoning the meat just right, or creating that tender, juicy texture everyone will rave about.
- 1 lb/500g pork tenderloin: The star of the dish, tender and lean with just the right amount of fat to keep it juicy.
- 11 oz/330ml sweet apple cider: Adds natural sweetness and depth, choose a quality hard cider like Rochdale for best results.
- 1 bay leaf (dried or 2 fresh): Infuses a subtle herbal note that quietly elevates the glaze.
- 2 tbsp honey: Provides a luscious sweetness that helps create that sticky, glossy finish.
- 2 tbsp brown sugar: Enhances caramelization and adds warmth to the glaze.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Adds aromatic punch without overpowering the sweeter flavors.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the pork perfectly to enhance all other flavors.
- Black pepper: Offers mild heat and balance to sweet elements.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For browning the pork, helping develop a flavorful crust.
- 1 1/2 tbsp butter: Added to the glaze to give it a rich, silky finish.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Introduces a slight tang that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet glaze.
How to Make Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by mixing together the apple cider, bay leaf, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. This combination creates the marinade and eventual glaze base that will caramelize beautifully while cooking.
Step 2: Marinate the Pork
Place the pork tenderloin and the marinade into a large ziplock bag. Seal it carefully, ensuring the pork is fully coated. Refrigerate the pork to marinate for at least several hours, but ideally overnight or up to 24 hours. This step lets the pork soak up all those incredible flavors, making every bite juicy and full of character.
Step 3: Brown the Pork
Remove the pork from the marinade, patting it dry to promote browning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the tenderloin on all sides until it develops a golden-brown crust. This step locks in juices and adds wonderful texture to the pork.
Step 4: Make the Glaze and Finish Cooking
Pour the marinade into a saucepan, add butter, and simmer to reduce it until thickened and syrupy. Transfer the browned pork to an oven-safe dish, brush generously with the glaze, and roast in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20 to 25 minutes, brushing with glaze halfway through. The final glaze bakes onto the pork, creating that signature glossy finish everyone will adore.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is tender and juicy when you cut into it.
How to Serve Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme brightens the rich dish and adds a pop of color. For a little extra flair, you can also add thin slices of crisp apples to echo the apple cider in the glaze.
Side Dishes
This Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The sides should complement but not overpower the tenderloin’s sweet and tangy notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the pork tenderloin sliced on a wooden board with small bowls of extra glaze for dipping. You can also arrange it on a platter surrounded by roasted apples and sprigs of fresh herbs—perfect for a cozy dinner party or family gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious pork longer, freeze the cooked slices in an airtight container or freezer bag. It’s best consumed within 1 to 2 months for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or in a covered skillet over low heat to keep the pork tender and prevent the glaze from burning. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can dry out the meat.
FAQs
Can I use non-alcoholic apple cider for the glaze?
Absolutely! Non-alcoholic apple cider works perfectly and will deliver the same sweet, fruity flavor in this Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe without the alcohol content.
How long should I marinate the pork tenderloin?
For best results, marinate the pork for at least 4 hours, but overnight or up to 24 hours gives the deepest flavor penetration and maximum tenderness.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot or slow cooker?
While the stovetop and oven method creates the best glaze texture and browning, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by cooking on low for 4-6 hours and finishing the glaze in a pan afterward. Instant Pot versions may lose some caramelization but will still be tasty.
What sides go best with apple cider glazed pork?
Think creamy, earthy, or crisp: mashed potatoes, roasted carrots and parsnips, or a fresh spinach salad all complement the pork perfectly, balancing the sweet and savory flavors.
Is pork tenderloin healthier than other pork cuts?
Yes, pork tenderloin is one of the leanest cuts of pork, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or tenderness, especially when cooked with a modest amount of glaze like in this recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a remarkable pork dish that combines approachable ingredients with show-stopping flavor, the Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe should be at the top of your list. Its lovely glaze, tender texture, and easy preparation make it a winner for any occasion. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one you’ll want to make over and over again.
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Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes plus marinating time
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A succulent pork tenderloin marinated in a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, enhanced with honey, brown sugar, garlic, and Dijon mustard. This recipe brings a perfect balance of flavors complemented by a tender, juicy texture, ideal for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 11 oz/330 ml sweet apple cider (hard cider recommended)
- 1 bay leaf (dried or 2 fresh)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Main
- 1 lb/500 g pork tenderloin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, thoroughly mix sweet apple cider, bay leaf, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard. This combination creates a flavorful marinade that infuses the pork with sweetness and spice.
- Marinate the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin and the prepared marinade into a large ziplock bag. Seal it well and refrigerate, allowing the pork to marinate overnight or for up to 24 hours to absorb maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Brown the Pork: Remove the pork from the marinade (reserve marinade) and pat dry. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork tenderloin and sear on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and adds a rich crust.
- Prepare the Glaze: Remove pork from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add butter and pour in the reserved marinade. Bring to a simmer and reduce the liquid until it thickens into a glaze, stirring occasionally. This concentrates flavors into a luscious sauce.
- Cook the Pork Tenderloin: Return pork tenderloin to the skillet with the glaze. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), turning occasionally to coat with glaze.
- Rest and Serve: Remove pork from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice the tenderloin, drizzle with the apple cider glaze from the pan, and serve immediately for a juicy and flavorful meal.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use sweet hard apple cider rather than juice.
- Marinating overnight significantly enhances tenderness and flavor but can be done for a minimum of 4 hours if short on time.
- Ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
