Roasted Pork Tenderloin
Juicy roasted pork tenderloin glazed with sweet apple jelly and tangy mustard, perfect for family dinners or special gatherings with rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Heat a large heavy skillet over medium heat and add butter.
- Add pork tenderloins to the skillet and sear on all sides.
- Place the seared pork in a shallow baking pan.
- Sprinkle the pork with salt and pepper.
- Add apple jelly, apple juice, and Dijon mustard to the pan drippings.
- Cook over low heat, stirring until well blended, about 5 minutes.
- Spoon the sauce over the pork.
- Roast the pork for 50 minutes, basting every 10 minutes with pan juices.
- Remove from oven and cut into 1 1/2 inch slices.
- Arrange the slices on a serving dish and keep warm.
- Blend cornstarch with light cream.
- Place the baking pan on the stove top over low heat.
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the pan juices.
- Cook, stirring until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Serve the sauce over the sliced pork.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the pan drippings along with the jelly and mustard. If you don't have apple jelly, apricot jam is a great substitute. Ensure the pork tenderloins are at room temperature before searing for even cooking. A meat thermometer should read 145°F for perfectly cooked pork.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sliced pork tenderloin with a drizzle of the homemade sauce over the top. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider accompanying it with mashed potatoes or rice. This dish complements other American recipes, making it ideal for family gatherings or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover roasted pork tenderloin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the pork and warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of apple juice to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power for a couple of minutes, covered with a damp paper towel.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Roasted Pork Tenderloin contains roughly 82 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1631mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts or beef tenderloin as alternatives. However, cooking times will vary; chicken should be cooked to 165°F, and beef can be cooked to your preferred doneness. Adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is safe and tender.
What can I serve with roasted pork tenderloin?
Roasted pork tenderloin pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a seasonal vegetable medley, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light salad. A fresh 7-Layer Salad can also add a colorful and crunchy contrast to the tender pork.
How do I know when the pork is done cooking?
The best way to check if pork tenderloin is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should register at 145°F in the thickest part of the meat. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juices and enhance flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).