This Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin is everything you want in a dinner—juicy, tender meat glazed with a caramelized honey-garlic sauce. Whether you’re hosting guests or preparing a family meal, this dish is as quick and easy as it is delicious. Pair it with your favorite sides for a restaurant-quality dinner at home.
Ingredients for Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin
For the Pork:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 lb each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Honey Garlic Glaze:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped parsley or sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions for Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin
1. Season the Pork
- Pat the pork tenderloins dry with paper towels.
- Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the Tenderloin
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork tenderloins and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Glaze
- Lower the heat to medium and add the following to the skillet:
- Soy sauce
- Honey
- Minced garlic
- Dijon mustard (if using)
- Apple cider vinegar
- Stir the ingredients together and let the glaze simmer for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
4. Cook the Pork
- Return the seared pork tenderloins to the skillet.
- Spoon the honey garlic glaze over the pork, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Slice
- Remove the pork tenderloins from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice into medallions and drizzle with the remaining glaze.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the sliced pork to a serving platter.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to exactly 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender results.
- Let it Rest: Resting the pork allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Double the Glaze: If you’re serving with rice or mashed potatoes, consider doubling the glaze for extra drizzling.
- Use the Right Pan: A skillet with high sides works best to keep the glaze from splattering.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin with these sides for a complete meal:
- Steamed Rice: The glaze pairs wonderfully with fluffy white or jasmine rice.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with caramelized Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the sweet and savory glaze perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use pork chops instead of tenderloin?
Yes! Adjust the cooking time as pork chops may cook faster depending on their thickness.
What can I substitute for apple cider vinegar?
White vinegar or lemon juice are great alternatives for the tangy component of the glaze.
Can I bake the pork instead?
Yes, after searing, transfer the pork to a 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, glazing occasionally.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that’s easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for special occasions. The tender pork, paired with the sticky, garlicky glaze, will have everyone reaching for seconds.
So fire up your skillet, whip up this simple recipe, and enjoy a dinner that’s guaranteed to be a hit. Happy cooking!