Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Pork

Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season all sides generously with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown. Remove the pork from the skillet and place it in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. If using, stir in thyme or rosemary.
Remove the sauce from heat and spoon it over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Pork Tenderloin

Place the pork tenderloin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Halfway through baking, baste the pork with the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Let the Pork Rest

Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender, juicy result.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin and serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Spoon any remaining sauce from the baking dish over the slices for extra flavor.

Cooking Notes

Pork Tenderloin: Be sure not to overcook the tenderloin, as it can dry out. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for the best results.
Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce it on the stovetop for a few minutes after removing the pork from the oven.

Variations
1. Spicy Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin

Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

2. Citrus Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin

Add 1 tablespoon of orange juice or lemon juice to the sauce for a zesty citrus flavor.

3. Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin

Add 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme to the honey garlic sauce for a more herbaceous flavor.

4. Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Chops

Use the same sauce and method for pork chops instead of tenderloin. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the chops.