Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Blackstone pork tenderloin recipe is your answer. Forget complicated techniques and long prep times; this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful pork tenderloin cooked to perfection on your Blackstone griddle. It's a crowd-pleaser that's easy enough for beginners but impressive enough for seasoned cooks. Get ready for a taste of pure deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 1 (1.5-2 lb) pork tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Pork Tenderloin
Start by patting your pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a beautiful sear on the Blackstone griddle. Then, generously season the tenderloin all over with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 2: Sear the Pork Tenderloin
Heat your Blackstone griddle to medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up for a minute. Carefully place the seasoned pork tenderloin on the hot griddle. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until a nice golden-brown crust forms. This step is crucial for locking in the juices.
Step 3: Glaze and Cook
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Once the pork tenderloin is seared, pour half of the glaze over the top. Continue cooking, turning occasionally and basting with the glaze, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) – about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your tenderloin. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the pork tenderloin from the griddle and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in an incredibly tender and juicy final product. Slice the tenderloin against the grain and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pork:
- Don't overcrowd the griddle: Ensure enough space between the tenderloin and other items to allow for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your pork tenderloin and the heat of your griddle.
- Get creative with glazes: Experiment with different glazes to suit your taste! Honey-soy glaze, maple-bourbon glaze, or even a simple balsamic glaze would all work wonderfully.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Roast some vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or onions alongside the pork tenderloin for a complete meal.
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or other chili flakes for extra heat.
- Herb it up: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the seasoning for an added layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Protein: Approximately 35-40g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This Blackstone pork tenderloin recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's perfect for busy weeknights and impressive enough for a weekend gathering. Enjoy this delicious and easy homemade cooking experience!