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Easy Brown Sugar Garlic Pork Tenderloin Recipe Perfect for Weeknight Dinners

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A quick and easy pork tenderloin recipe featuring a sweet and savory brown sugar garlic marinade that caramelizes beautifully, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Trim and prepare the pork tenderloin by removing any silver skin or excess fat. Pat dry with paper towels. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Make the marinade by whisking together brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and cracked black pepper. Add red pepper flakes if desired. (3 minutes)
  3. Place the pork tenderloin in the marinade, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours. (30 minutes minimum)
  4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned and caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side. (10 minutes)
  5. Transfer the skillet with pork to the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). (15-20 minutes)
  6. Remove pork from oven and let rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes to retain juices. (5-10 minutes)
  7. Slice pork into 1/2-inch thick medallions. Spoon pan juices over the top and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. (2 minutes)

Notes

Marinate pork for at least 30 minutes for best flavor; 15 minutes works in a pinch. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Rest meat after roasting to keep it juicy. If marinade is too thick, warm gently to make a glaze but avoid burning. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Optional spicy variations include cayenne pepper or Sriracha. Slow cooker method available but texture differs.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork tenderloin, brown sugar, garlic, easy dinner, weeknight recipe, quick pork recipe, savory glaze, caramelized pork

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