Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe that’s surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Sweet and Savory Cranberry Pork Tenderloin uses canned cranberry sauce to create a surprisingly delicious and sophisticated dish in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is a fantastic example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be, proving that quick dinner ideas don’t have to sacrifice flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 (1.5-pound) pork tenderloin, trimmed
- 1 (14-ounce) can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps it brown nicely.
- Make the Cranberry Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, Dijon mustard, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Coat the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin in a baking dish and pour the cranberry glaze evenly over it, ensuring the entire tenderloin is coated.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through. Overcooked pork will be dry, so don't overbake!
- Rest & Serve: Remove the pork tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Pork Tenderloin:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your baking dish is large enough to comfortably hold the pork tenderloin. Overcrowding can hinder even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature without overcooking it.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, or other spices to your preference.
Delicious Variations:
- Add some sweetness: Incorporate a teaspoon of brown sugar or maple syrup into the glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a hint of heat.
- Add some herbs: Experiment with other herbs like sage or oregano in addition to the thyme.
- Serve with sides: This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Sweet and Savory Cranberry Pork Tenderloin is a perfect example of a healthy meal that's both quick and delicious. It’s a fantastic recipe for easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas, showcasing the best recipes you can easily make at home. Enjoy!