Roasted Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin (or Slow Cooker)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
8 servings
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Calories
257 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Roasted Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin (or Slow Cooker)
Description
The pork tenderloins are first rubbed with a spice mix of salt, smoked paprika, cumin, and black pepper to infuse aromatic warmth. After searing in olive oil to brown the exterior, minced garlic is sautéed briefly in the pan to release its flavor without burning. A glaze combining honey, low-sodium soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar is simmered to thicken, then coats the pork as it finishes baking in the oven.
This technique yields tender pork with a glossy, flavorful exterior where the honey-sweetness balances the savoriness of soy and the tang of vinegar. The sear locks in moisture, while the oven finish cooks evenly. Garlic adds aromatic depth, enhancing the pork’s natural richness.
The dish is suitable for roasting or can be adapted for slow cooker use. Roasted pork pairs well with simple sides that complement the glaze without overwhelming it.
Store cooked pork tenderloin refrigerated for up to 3 to 4 days in an airtight container. For freezing, keep the tenderloin whole rather than sliced to retain moisture, wrap in parchment, then seal in an airtight bag. Frozen pork can be stored for up to 3 months. Let cooked pork cool fully before refrigeration or freezing to maintain quality.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 pounds pork tenderloin 2 pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin ground
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper ground
- ¾ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce low sodium
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 4-5 cloves garlic minced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Set out a large 12 to 14 inch cast iron skillet, or an equivalent oven-safe sauté pan. In a small bowl, mix the salt, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and ground black pepper. Mix well, then rub over the entire surface of both pork tenderloins.
- Pour the oil in the skillet and set it over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, sear the pork tenderloins for about two minutes per side to brown the exterior, 6 to 8 minutes total. Remove the pork tenderloin from the skillet and place them on a holding plate. Then, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for one minute, stirring continuously, so it does not burn.
- Pour in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 1 to 3 minutes to thicken. Then place the pork tenderloin back into the skillet. Use tongs to rotate the pork so that it is coated in glaze on all sides. Then place the skillet in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the interior temperature is between 145-150°F. Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Allow the pork to rest for at least 5 minutes, then spoon the sauce over the pork tenderloin and slice. Serve warm.
Slow Cooker Instructions:
- Prepare the spice seasoning, and rub the pork tenderloin as directed above. Place them in a large 6 quart slow cooker. Set a small skillet over medium heat. Add the oil and garlic. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes to soften the garlic, being careful not to burn it. Sprinkle the sautéed garlic over the pork tenderloin.
- Pour the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider into the crockpot. Cover and set on LOW for 5 to 7 hours, or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. Stir the sauce in the bottom of the crock and spoon it over the pork tenderloin. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Refrigerate cooked pork tenderloin in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze whole tenderloin wrapped in parchment and sealed airtight for up to 3 months to preserve juiciness.
- Allow the pork to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 257 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 4oz | |
| Calories | 257kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 27g | 9% |
| Protein | 24g | 48% |
| Fat | 6g | 9% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Trans Fat | 0.04g | 2% |
| Cholesterol | 74mg | 25% |
| Sodium | 639mg | 27% |
| Potassium | 508mg | 11% |
| Fiber | 0.2g | 1% |
| Sugar | 26g | 52% |
| Vitamin A | 66IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 16mg | 2% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.