Description
This Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider is a comforting, autumn-inspired dish featuring juicy, pan-seared pork tenderloin simmered in a rich apple cider sauce with hints of garlic, mustard, and fresh herbs. It’s elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for sweetness balance)
- 1 small apple, sliced (for garnish, optional)
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Pat pork tenderloin dry and season all over with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the pork and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Reduce heat to medium and add garlic; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in apple cider, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar (if using). Stir to combine.
- Cover and simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, turning the pork occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pork from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Meanwhile, continue simmering the sauce for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Slice the pork and drizzle with the apple cider sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs and apple slices if desired.
Notes
- For a creamier sauce, whisk in 1 tablespoon of heavy cream or butter at the end of cooking.
- Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or wild rice.
- Substitute apple juice if apple cider is unavailable — just reduce the brown sugar.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-sear & Simmer
- Cuisine: American