Savory Garlic and Herb Pork Tenderloin Recipe

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There’s something so elegant yet effortless about a perfectly cooked pork tenderloin. It’s juicy, tender, and infused with just the right amount of garlic and herbs to make every bite sing. Whether you’re prepping a special dinner or just need a fast, flavorful meal that feels a little fancy, this recipe will be your new go-to.

If you’re looking for a stunning yet simple main dish, this garlic and herb pork tenderloin is exactly what you need!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—a perfect weeknight dinner.
• Minimal Ingredients: Simple, pantry-friendly staples that pack a ton of flavor.
• Perfectly Juicy: With the right cooking method, you’ll never have dry pork again!
• Great for Entertaining: Feels like a special occasion meal but requires minimal effort.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Pork Tenderloin: Look for a high-quality, well-trimmed cut—about 1 to 1.5 lbs is perfect.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic really infuses the meat with bold flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: I love a mix of rosemary and thyme, but parsley or sage are great options too.
• Olive Oil: Helps create a golden, flavorful crust.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps baste the pork to keep it super juicy.
• Salt & Pepper: Don’t skimp—seasoning is key to bringing out all those flavors.

Pro Tips:

• If you can, marinate the pork with the garlic and herbs for an hour before cooking—it deepens the flavor.
• Using fresh herbs makes a huge difference, but dried herbs can work in a pinch (use half the amount).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C). A high temp ensures a beautiful sear without overcooking.
2. Season the pork: Pat the tenderloin dry, then rub it all over with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Get a good sear: Heat a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil and sear the pork for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Bake to perfection: Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temp hits 145°F (63°C).
5. Baste with butter: In the last few minutes, add butter to the pan and spoon it over the pork for extra juiciness.
6. Rest & slice: Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing—this keeps all those flavorful juices locked in.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Use a Meat Thermometer: The biggest key to juicy pork is NOT overcooking. Check for 145°F (63°C) internally.
• Let it Rest! Cutting into it too soon makes all the delicious juices run out.
• Cast Iron is Key: If you have one, a cast-iron skillet gives the best sear and even cooking.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

Variations:

• Honey Mustard Glaze: Mix Dijon mustard and honey, then brush on during the last few minutes of roasting.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

Serving Suggestions:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes pair perfectly with the garlicky pork.
• Roasted Veggies: Try Brussels sprouts or carrots roasted alongside the pork.
• A Bright Salad: A crisp arugula and citrus salad balances the richness.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the pork in garlic and herbs for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Slice and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

How do I reheat without drying it out?

Warm slices in a pan over low heat with a splash of broth or butter to keep them juicy.

Pork Tenderloin with Garlic and Herbs

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pork tenderloin (about 1.5 lbs)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rub the pork with olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork for 2-3 minutes on each side.
4. Transfer to oven and roast for 12-15 minutes or until the internal temp reaches 145°F.
5. Add butter in the last few minutes and baste for extra juiciness.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve.

There you have it—an incredibly easy yet gourmet-style pork tenderloin that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a weeknight or a special occasion, this dish will never fail you. Give it a try and let me know how it turned out! Don’t forget to tag #TheKitchensAid on social media so I can see your creations!

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