This Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin recipe is a game changer for weeknight dinners. With its tender, juicy meat infused with vibrant flavors, this dish is both satisfying and simple to prepare. The Instant Pot ensures that the pork cooks quickly, retaining moisture and enhancing the taste of the spices and marinades used. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking to whip up a delicious meal with minimal fuss, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will adore this recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The Instant Pot allows for quick cooking, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence. The tenderloin comes out perfectly cooked every time, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that fits well into various dietary lifestyles, from low-carb to high-protein, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
Tips and Tricks
To make your Instant Pot pork tenderloin even more flavorful, consider marinating it for at least an hour (or overnight) before cooking. This allows the spices and flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply. Additionally, searing the pork in the Instant Pot before pressure cooking adds a rich depth of flavor. For a quicker cook time, slice the tenderloin into medallions before cooking; this also reduces the risk of overcooking. Lastly, don’t forget to let the meat rest after cooking to ensure it stays juicy!
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep the pork tenderloin in advance by marinating it for a few hours or overnight. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. You can also chop your vegetables and prepare the spice mix ahead of time, which will save you precious minutes when you’re ready to cook. The marinated pork will stay fresh for up to two days in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe! You can swap out the seasoning for a different flavor profile—try using a dry barbecue rub or a citrus marinade instead. If you want to add vegetables, consider including carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers in the pot for a complete meal. Alternatively, you can cook the pork tenderloin on the grill for a smoky flavor or in the oven for a more traditional approach.
How to Serve
To serve your Instant Pot pork tenderloin, slice it into medallions and arrange it on a platter. Drizzle with the pan juices or your favorite sauce for an extra touch of flavor. Pair it with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a refreshing white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors of the pork beautifully. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, a classic gin and tonic with a twist of lime would be delightful. For side dishes, consider serving it with roasted Brussels sprouts, creamy coleslaw, or a quinoa salad. A slice of apple pie or a scoop of vanilla ice cream would make for a perfect dessert to round out the meal.
How to Store
Leftover pork tenderloin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked pork; it will keep well for up to three months. When reheating, use the microwave or a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep the meat moist. Avoid reheating it directly from frozen; instead, let it thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Equipment Needed
You will need an Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker) for this recipe. A good quality meat thermometer is also essential to ensure perfectly cooked pork. If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can use a slow cooker, but cooking times will vary.
Dietary Adaptations
For a dairy-free version, simply omit any dairy-based sauces or sides. To make it gluten-free, ensure that your marinade and seasoning blends are certified gluten-free. If you have nut allergies, double-check any pre-made spice mixes for hidden allergens. For a low-carb adaptation, serve the pork with non-starchy vegetables instead of grains.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, fresh herbs like basil and cilantro can be used to brighten up the dish. In the fall, consider incorporating seasonal spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm flavor. During winter, root vegetables like parsnips and sweet potatoes can be added to the pot for a hearty meal. In spring, asparagus and peas can be served on the side for a fresh touch.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use a different cut of pork? Yes, you can substitute pork loin or pork shoulder, but cooking times may vary.
- How long should I cook the pork tenderloin? Typically, about 3-4 minutes per pound in the Instant Pot, plus natural release time.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, but ensure not to exceed the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot.
- What if I don’t have a meat thermometer? Consider investing in one, but if you don’t have it, cook until the juices run clear and the pork is no longer pink in the center.
Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin
This Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin recipe is a game changer for weeknight dinners. With its tender, juicy meat infused with vibrant flavors, this dish is both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1-2 pounds pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the pork by patting the tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning all over the pork.
- Set your Instant Pot to "Sauté" mode and add olive oil. Once hot, sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- In a separate bowl, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Pour this mixture into the pot, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom.
- Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on manual high pressure for 3-4 minutes per pound. For a 1.5-pound tenderloin, cook for about 6 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Remove the pork from the pot and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Slice the pork tenderloin, drizzle with pan juices, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 418Total Fat 16gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 166mgSodium 1217mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 1gSugar 0gProtein 62g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot pork tenderloin recipe is not only a time-saver but also a flavor-packed meal that you can feel good about serving to family and friends. With its ease of preparation and delicious results, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and sides to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!
