5 Easy Stovetop Pork Tenderloin Recipes
Who doesn’t love a succulent piece of pork tenderloin? Known for its tender and mild flavor, pork tenderloin is a versatile cut of meat that's quick to cook and pairs well with a myriad of flavors. Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned chef, these 5 Easy Stovetop Pork Tenderloin Recipes are designed to bring out the best in this delicious protein while making your kitchen time enjoyable and stress-free.
1. Garlic and Rosemary Pork Tenderloin
For a classic taste that never disappoints, garlic and rosemary pork tenderloin is a must-try. Here’s how to make it:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rub the pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and rosemary.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork to the skillet and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 6-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium, cover, and continue to cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
⚠️ Note: Ensure not to overcook the pork to maintain its tenderness.
2. Honey Soy Glazed Pork Tenderloin
Looking for a balance of sweet and savory? This honey soy glaze recipe will do the trick:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Instructions:
- Mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, and rice vinegar in a bowl to make the glaze.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil.
- Sear the pork tenderloin until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium, pour in the honey-soy mixture, and simmer, turning the pork occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove pork from skillet and let it rest, then slice and serve with extra glaze from the pan.
🍯 Note: The honey should caramelize but not burn, so watch the heat and thickness of the glaze.
3. Mustard and Herb Pork Tenderloin
This recipe brings out the rich flavors of mustard complemented by a mix of herbs:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Mix the mustards with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the pork tenderloin with the mustard herb mixture.
- In a hot skillet with oil, sear the pork on all sides for about 5-6 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook until the internal temperature is 145°F (63°C), about 12-15 minutes.
- Allow the pork to rest, then slice and serve.
4. Citrus Pork Tenderloin
Refreshing and light, this citrus-infused recipe will brighten up your dinner table:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- Juice and zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine the citrus juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the pork tenderloin in this mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, remove the pork from the marinade (reserve the marinade), and sear the pork until nicely browned, about 5-6 minutes.
- Reduce heat, pour in the marinade, cover, and simmer until the pork reaches 145°F (63°C), about 12-15 minutes, basting occasionally.
- Let the pork rest before slicing and serve with the pan juices.
5. Spicy Pork Tenderloin
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this spicy pork tenderloin is a fiery delight:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons chili paste or sambal oelek
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
- Mix chili paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and lime juice to make the marinade.
- Coat the pork with this spicy mixture and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add the pork, and sear until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
- Reduce heat, cover, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), about 12-15 minutes.
- Rest the pork, then slice, and serve with any residual sauce from the pan.
🌶 Note: Adjust the heat level by adding or reducing the chili paste as per your taste.
To wrap up, these stovetop pork tenderloin recipes not only showcase the versatility of pork but also provide a range of flavors that can satisfy any palate. Whether you prefer something simple and classic like the garlic and rosemary combination or crave something with a kick like the spicy pork tenderloin, these recipes ensure your dinner is both delicious and easy to prepare. With minimal prep time and quick cooking, you'll be able to enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
What is the best way to marinate pork tenderloin?
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Marinate pork tenderloin in a sealed bag or container in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours. This allows flavors to penetrate the meat without making it too tough or overly salty.
How can I ensure the pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection?
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Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 145°F (63°C). Allow the meat to rest after cooking to redistribute the juices, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
Can I substitute pork tenderloin for another cut of pork?
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While these recipes are tailored for pork tenderloin, you can use pork loin or even boneless pork chops. Keep in mind that cooking times will vary due to the differences in cut thickness and tenderness.