Marinated Pork Tenderloin

Marinated pork tenderloin is one of the easiest ways to prepare tender and flavorful pork. Looking for an easy dinner that doesn't compromise on quality? This pork tenderloin recipe is just what you need!

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Marinated Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Looking for a dish that is great for everything from special occasions to a quick weeknight meal? Marinated pork tenderloin is just the thing. It always wows, especially if you serve it alongside something a little elevated (but just as easy) like parmesan risotto.

This juicy pork tenderloin is loaded with the most amazing and complementary flavors. With a slight tang of mustard and the sweetness of honey, you get a well rounded flavor combination that is irresistibly tasty!

Pork tenderloin is the most tender cut of pork, and it's also very lean. That makes this a really great meal that is both affordable and nutritious. A win all around for a simple recipe with basic ingredients! It's so good with veggies like oven roasted green beans or roasted root vegetables.

After you try this, you'll know why I always have a pork tenderloin in the freezer — it makes a great weeknight dinner or an easy decision when we know we will have people over.

Ingredients

With just pork tenderloin and simple marinade ingredients, you can make a dish that the whole family will enjoy. Here is a list of what you'll need for this easy recipe:

• pork tenderloin: this is usually sold in a package with two pieces equaling about 1½ pounds)
• olive oil: I prefer the flavor of olive oil in many of my marinade recipes. However, you can use avocado oil or another neutral oil if that is what you have on hand!
• whole grain mustard: You can also use a smooth mustard if it's what you have.
• honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar are fine, too. Even a little brown sugar will work!
• minced garlic: Ideally mince fresh cloves, but the jarred stuff works well too.
• red wine vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar are great instead.
• dried thyme: Any dried herb would be good here!
• salt and black pepper: Sea salt or kosher salt plus freshly-cracked black pepper are what I keep in my kitchen!

Substitutions and Variations

Don't have red wine vinegar? The best swap for this flavorful marinade would be balsamic vinegar, though white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar could work too.

Mustard swaps: You can substitute whole grain mustard with a little bit of dijon mustard. Spicy brown mustard would also work, and you could even use honey mustard. (But maybe hold the honey in the recipe, if you do.)

Flavor adjustments: Feel free to experiment with different flavors in this delicious marinade. Lemon zest and lemon juice would be tasty, as would pineapple juice or some fresh herbs! You can also throw in other dried herbs, like dried rosemary or parsley.

Other cuts of pork: While this recipe gives you instruction on cooking pork tenderloin, you can use the marinade for any cut of pork! Use it on pork chops, pork loin roast, pork medallions and so much more. But keep in mind that the cook times for these will vary widely, so do a little research before you hit the grill.

How to Make Marinated Pork Tenderloin

Follow these simple steps to make my favorite pork tenderloin marinade and using it for a grilled pork tenderloin:

6. Remove the pork from the marinade and allow the excess to drip off. Then place it onto the side that is on and cook for 3 minutes. Flip to a larger side and cook for 3 more minutes.
7. Move the pork tenderloin to the side with indirect heat with the fatter side facing the heat. Grill for another 4 minutes on each side, a total of 8 minutes, until it reaches a safe internal temperature. Remove the fully cooked pork from the grill and allow it to rest before slicing and serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

One thing you need to know: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the temperature of your cooked pork tenderloin. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat. A safe temp will be 145°F (63°C).

Other Cooking Methods

If you want to cook the marinated pork tenderloin in the oven or on the stovetop instead of grilling, here’s how you can do it. Both methods will give you a nice, juicy pork tenderloin without needing the grill!

Oven Option

1. Preheat your oven to 400ºF (204°C).
2. Heat a little olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop.
3. Sear the marinated pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer reads 145ºF (63°C).
5. Let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Stovetop Option

1. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the marinated pork tenderloin and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned.
3. Once browned, reduce the heat to medium and cover the pan.
4. Cook the tenderloin for another 8-10 minutes, flipping once, until it reaches 145ºF (63°C) internally.
5. Let the pork rest before slicing and serving.

What to Serve with Marinated Pork Tenderloin

While the grill is hot, you can also quickly make some grilled asparagus. Then serve this pork tenderloin with the grilled veggies and a side of rice — so quick and easy!

Wanna keep all of your side dishes on the grill? Then make some grilled zucchini and squash along with that grilled asparagus, or maybe some grilled brussels sprouts. Easy peasy! Not to mention, clean up is so incredibly easy! Just give your grill a good scrub and wash up the prep dishes and serving dishes, that's it.

This delicious protein is also good with hearty sides like cheesy potatoes or drop biscuits. Pair it with your favorite side dishes like cheesy garlic bread or cheesy polenta and you've got a meal that's tough to beat.

And if you want dessert, something like cherry brownies or apple crisp is sure to round out the meal.

Don't forget a delicious drink, too. This strawberry iced tea would be perfect.

How to Store Leftover Pork Tenderloin

For best results, store unsliced leftovers. If you have already sliced your tenderloin, you can still store it, it just may dry out a bit more quickly!

In the fridge: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

In the freezer: You can freeze leftovers if you'd like, but the texture of the meat is often not as tender after being thawed and reheated. To freeze, wrap the cooked tenderloin tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven or stovetop to avoid drying it out.

To reheat: Place on the stove top in a skillet with a little oil or in the oven. Heat until the meat reaches a safe internal temperature for consumption.

Tips for Success

A few key tips to make the best pork tenderloin ever:

• The two zone grilling method is the key to success here. Essentially, you are heating the entire grill and then turning off one side. This allows for the marinated pork tenderloin to not overcook or cook too quickly. I have successfully cooked this recipe without using the two zone method, but if you do that be very careful not to cook it too quickly or on too high of a heat.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to get a quick and accurate reading of the internal temperature of the pork loin.
• The longer you can marinate, the better! The pork loin will need to marinate for at least an hour, but if you can leave it longer then I highly recommend you do. It will have so much more great flavor!
• Do not reuse leftover marinade. It needs to be discarded after the pork is done marinating!

FAQ

More Pork Recipes

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• Apple Pan Seared Pork Medallions
• Grilled Pork Chops
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