Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin

Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin is one of those meals that feels special even though it comes together quickly. The first time I made it, the kitchen filled with the smell of sizzling garlic, warm honey, and savory spices, and the tenderloin developed that perfect golden crust that makes every slice look irresistible. When you slice it open and drizzle the glossy honey-garlic sauce over the top, it feels like a restaurant-style dinner made right at home. This Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin is juicy, flavorful, slightly sweet, savory, and perfect for busy nights, holiday meals, or anytime you want something simple yet impressive.

INGREDIENTS

For the pork:
2 pork tenderloins (about 1 lb each)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried thyme

For the honey garlic sauce:
1/3 cup honey
4 garlic cloves (minced)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp butter

For serving:
Fresh thyme
Extra sauce

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

STEP 1: PREP THE PORK

• Season the Tenderloins: Pat the pork tenderloins dry with paper towels. Season all sides with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
Tip: Dry pork browns much better and gives that beautiful crust like in the image.
• Preheat the Pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

STEP 2: SEAR THE TENDERLOIN

• Brown All Sides: Add pork to the hot skillet and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Tip: Don’t rush—browning builds flavor and caramelizes the spices.
• Transfer to Plate: Remove the pork and set aside briefly.

STEP 3: MAKE THE HONEY GARLIC SAUCE

• Sauté the Garlic: Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add the Liquids: Stir in honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes if using.
Tip: Scrape the browned bits from the pan, they add amazing flavor.
• Simmer: Let the sauce bubble for 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly.

STEP 4: FINISH COOKING THE PORK

• Return Pork to Sauce: Place the tenderloins back in the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.
• Cook Through: Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
Tip: Don’t overcook—tenderloin dries quickly if cooked past temperature.

STEP 5: REST AND SLICE

• Rest Before Cutting: Transfer pork to a cutting board and rest 5 minutes.
• Slice Evenly: Cut the tenderloins into thick slices, keeping them close together for moisture.
Tip: Resting keeps the juices inside and slices tender.

STEP 6: SERVE & GLAZE

• Spoon Extra Sauce: Drizzle the warm honey garlic sauce over the sliced pork.
• Garnish: Add fresh thyme for fragrance and presentation.

Variations

• Add orange zest for citrus flavor
• Use maple syrup instead of honey
• Add sliced onions to the sauce
• Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos
• Add a splash of apple cider for sweetness

Serving suggestions

• Serve with mashed potatoes
• Pair with roasted baby carrots
• Add garlic butter rice
• Serve with sautéed green beans
• Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts

Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

(Per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~310
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 32g

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin is a flavorful, juicy, and beautifully caramelized dish that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dinner. With tender slices soaked in glossy honey garlic sauce and fresh herbs on top, it’s perfect for weeknights, holidays, or any special meal. This recipe is fast, reliable, and always a crowd-pleaser, offering sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors in every delicious bite.

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