Sweet and Spicy Pork Tenderloin
User Reviews
4.5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Total Time
35 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Sweet and Spicy Pork Tenderloin
Description
This recipe highlights pork tenderloins trimmed and coated with a spice rub consisting mainly of chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Browning the pork in a hot skillet forms a caramelized outer layer, enhancing texture and taste. Finishing the cooking in the oven ensures the meat remains juicy and reaches a safe internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Resting the meat before slicing allows juices to redistribute for tender slices.
The finishing glaze combines ketchup with cider vinegar and sugar, balanced with some of the reserved spices, providing a glossy coating with a subtle sharpness and sweetness. This glaze is applied just before serving, giving the dish a sticky, flavorful surface without overpowering the pork.
Slices of the tenderloin can be served on their own or paired with sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or salad. The sweet and lightly spicy profile suits a variety of meals from casual dinners to gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 (12-16 ounces each) pork tenderloin trimmed
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or canola oil
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 teaspoons cider vinegar
- 1 ½ teaspoons sugar
Instructions
- Adjust an oven rack to middle position and preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, paprika, salt and pepper. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the spice mixture and use the rest to rub over the pork tenderloin on all sides.
- In a large 12-inch nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium heat until it is rippling and hot. Add the pork tenderloins in a single layer and cook the pork until browned on all sides, 5-7 minutes total (flipping as needed). Transfer the pork to an aluminum-foil lined baking pan and bake until the meat registers 140 degrees at the thickest part, about 15-18 minutes. Transfer the pork to a platter or plate and tent with foil, letting it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- In a bowl, combine the reserved spice mixture, ketchup, vinegar and sugar and brush over the cooked pork. Slice the pork and serve.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 Serving | |
| Calories | 215kcal | 11% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 30g | 60% |
| Fat | 8g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 92mg | 31% |
| Sodium | 596mg | 25% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.