Honey Mustard Roasted Pork Tenderloin

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 8

Honey Mustard Roasted Pork Tenderloin is a delightful and straightforward dish that combines sweetness and tang for a perfect balance. It's a meal that feels both elegant and comforting, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its simple preparation and impressive flavors, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare: Minimal prep time makes it weeknight-friendly.
  • Flavorful: The honey-mustard glaze adds a sweet and tangy profile.
  • Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides.
  • Impressive presentation: Looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

2 lbs pork tenderloin
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Ingredients Explained

Pork tenderloin is the star of this dish, known for its tenderness and mild flavor, making it a perfect canvas for bold flavors. The honey adds a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Dijon mustard brings a tangy sharpness that cuts through the sweetness, creating a balanced glaze. Olive oil helps to keep the meat moist during roasting. Fresh rosemary infuses the dish with a fragrant, earthy aroma. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth and complexity to the glaze. Finally, a sprinkle of salt and black pepper enhances all these flavors, bringing them together harmoniously.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and avoid overcooking.
  • Let the pork rest after cooking to maximize juiciness.
  • If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the honey mustard mixture in a small saucepan until it reduces slightly before applying it to the pork.

Detailed Instructions

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, you'll want to prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, chopped rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until they are well combined. This mixture should be smooth and slightly thick.

Next, take your pork tenderloins and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the glaze adhere better to the meat. Place the tenderloins in a roasting pan, ensuring they have a little space around them for even cooking.

With a brush or spoon, generously coat the tenderloins with the honey mustard mixture. Make sure every side is covered, as this will form a delicious crust as it roasts.

Pop the roasting pan into your preheated oven. You'll want to roast the pork for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the cooking time, as ovens can vary. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for five minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

Simplified Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, chopped rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pat the pork tenderloins dry with paper towels and place them in a roasting pan.
4. Brush the honey mustard mixture generously over the pork, ensuring an even coating.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, to keep things simple and seasonal. For a more complete meal, consider serving it alongside a creamy mashed potato or a fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried rosemary, but use only about half the amount since it's more concentrated in flavor.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the pork.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pork. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to two months.

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