As the cool breeze of autumn sets in, there’s nothing quite like the thought of juicy Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops sizzling on the skillet. The kitchen fills with the inviting aroma of caramelized garlic mingling with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider, creating an atmosphere that instantly warms your home. This dish has quickly become a staple in my weeknight cooking arsenal—perfect for those evenings when you crave something comforting yet effortlessly elegant.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can transform basic pork chops into a tender, flavor-packed delight that’s bound to impress your family or guests. The dreamy glaze envelops each chop, striking a wonderful balance between savory and sweet that you won’t soon forget. Plus, it’s gluten-free and budget-friendly, making it an all-around winner on any dinner table. Get ready to take a bite and discover why this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen routine!
Why will you love apple cider glazed pork tenderloin?
Easy preparation: This dish requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Flavor explosion: The glaze beautifully balances sweet and savory, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.
Family-friendly: Everyone will adore this comforting meal, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Versatile options: Swap the pork for chicken or add apples to elevate the flavor for even more variety.
Health-conscious: With gluten-free ingredients and under 300 calories per serving, it fits seamlessly into a balanced diet.
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Ingredients
For the Pork
- Pork Tenderloin – The star of the dish, ensuring a juicy and tender meal; boneless cuts are recommended for easy cooking.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing the meat’s natural flavor; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
- Pepper – Adds a subtle warmth to the dish; customize the amount based on your heat tolerance.
For the Glaze
- Olive Oil – Perfect for searing the meat; can be substituted with canola or any other cooking oil.
- Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavors; fresh garlic works best, though powder can be a handy substitute in a pinch.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Brings acidity and depth to the glaze; opt for high-quality vinegar for superior taste, or try white wine vinegar if needed.
- Apple Cider – The sweet base for your glaze; unfiltered cider is ideal for a richer flavor, while grape juice can be used for a non-apple version.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds a delightful tang; substitute with honey mustard if you prefer sweetness.
- Dried Thyme – Provides an herbaceous note to balance the flavors; fresh thyme can be a fragrant alternative.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces a bit of spice; adjust or omit for a milder taste.
This collection of apple cider glazed pork tenderloin ingredients promises to create a scrumptious meal that your family will love!
How to Make Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin
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Season Pork: Start by patting dry your pork tenderloin with paper towels. Generously season the meat with salt and pepper on all sides, allowing the flavors to seep in.
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Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This will ensure a beautiful sear on your pork.
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Sear Tenderloin: Carefully place the seasoned tenderloin in the hot skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it develops a golden-brown crust.
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Rest Pork: Once beautifully browned, transfer the seared pork tenderloin to a plate and cover with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes, preserving the tenderness.
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Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring until fragrant—this will infuse your glaze with a lovely aroma.
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Prepare Glaze: Pour in apple cider vinegar to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits. After about a minute, add apple cider, Dijon mustard, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the glaze thickens to about ⅔ cup.
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Glaze Pork: Finally, return the pork tenderloin to the skillet, generously coating it with the sweet and savory glaze. Allow it to heat through for another 2 minutes before slicing for serving.
Optional: Serve with roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious side.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops?
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides that harmonize beautifully with the flavors of apple cider glazed pork chops.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
Rich and buttery, these potatoes create a comforting base that absorbs the luscious glaze perfectly. Pairing them with the pork enhances the overall heartiness of the meal. -
Roasted Brussels Sprouts:
Their slight bitterness and crispy texture provide a wonderful contrast to the sweet glaze. Tossed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar, they bring a burst of flavor to your plate. -
Warm Apple and Spinach Salad:
Sweet apples combined with fresh spinach create a bright, refreshing side that cuts through the richness of the pork. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to complete a wholesome offering. -
Honey-Glazed Carrots:
These tender, caramelized carrots add a vibrant splash of color and a hint of sweetness. They complement the pork’s glaze, enhancing each bite with earthy and sweet tones. -
Garlic Bread:
Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up that delicious apple cider glaze. It’s a comforting classic that everyone loves. -
Apple Crisp:
For dessert, an apple crisp topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream rounds out the meal perfectly. This sweet finish echoes the flavors of the pork and leaves you with that cozy fall feeling.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin
Fridge: Store leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container for up to 3 to 5 days. This helps maintain its freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of apple cider for moisture.
Tip: Properly stored, your apple cider glazed pork tenderloin will remain a delicious, easy weeknight meal option ready to enjoy anytime!
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin
- High-Quality Ingredients: Use premium apple cider and vinegar for the best flavor in your glaze. The quality greatly impacts the dish’s overall taste.
- Perfectly Seasoned: Don’t skimp on seasoning the pork! A generous coating of salt and pepper ensures every bite of your apple cider glazed pork tenderloin is flavorful.
- Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This prevents overcooking and keeps the pork tender and juicy.
- Rest for Flavor: Let the pork rest after cooking. This step allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the tenderness and flavor of your dish.
- Sauté Garlic Wisely: Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing, as it can turn bitter. Cook just until fragrant for the best taste in your glaze.
Make Ahead Options
These apple cider glazed pork tenderloin are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the pork tenderloin up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to fully meld together for a richer taste. Additionally, the glaze can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just be sure to refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to cook, simply sear the pork, reheat the glaze on the stove, and coat the tenderloin before serving. This approach not only saves valuable time on busy weeknights but also ensures that your dish retains its delicious flavor profile!
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs!
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Chicken Swap: Replace pork tenderloin with chicken breasts for a lighter, equally delightful meal.
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Fruity Twist: Add sliced apples or pears to the glaze while it simmers, infusing a sweet fruitiness that complements the pork beautifully.
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Smoky Flavor: Mix in smoked paprika or a little liquid smoke to the seasoning for a bold, smoky undertone that deepens the glaze.
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Herb Upgrade: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or sage alongside thyme for an aromatic flavor boost.
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Sweet and Spicy: Incorporate a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze.
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Maple Glaze: Swap out some apple cider for pure maple syrup to create an even sweeter glaze with a delightful earthy flavor.
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Veggie Delight: Toss in some seasonal root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes into the skillet during cooking for a wholesome, one-pan dish.
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Dijon Alternatives: Use a spicy brown mustard or stone-ground mustard for a different tangy twist that still complements the apple flavors perfectly.
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pork tenderloin?
Selecting the right pork tenderloin is essential for a juicy meal. Look for tenderloins that are pink to light red, with minimal fat and no dark spots. The meat should feel firm to the touch. If possible, choose antibiotic-free or pasture-raised options for better flavor and quality.
What is the best way to store leftover pork tenderloin?
To store leftover apple cider glazed pork tenderloin, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 5 days. Ensure that it cools down to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation inside the container.
Can I freeze pork tenderloin?
Absolutely! To freeze the pork tenderloin, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method will keep it fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to retain moisture.
What should I do if my glaze isn’t thickening?
If your glaze isn’t thickening after simmering, you can increase the heat slightly and continue to cook it for a little longer, stirring occasionally. If it’s still too thin, whisk together a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then stir this mixture into the glaze, allowing it to cook for another minute or so until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! This apple cider glazed pork tenderloin is naturally gluten-free, as none of the ingredients contain gluten. However, always double-check labels on condiments like mustard or vinegar to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I add other ingredients to the glaze?
The more the merrier! You can enhance the glaze by adding sliced apples or shallots while simmering. They will infuse extra flavor and a lovely texture, making the dish even more delicious and appealing!
Apple Cider Glazed Pork Tenderloin: A Sweet Savory Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting dry your pork tenderloin with paper towels. Generously season the meat with salt and pepper on all sides, allowing the flavors to seep in.
- In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This will ensure a beautiful sear on your pork.
- Carefully place the seasoned tenderloin in the hot skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it develops a golden-brown crust.
- Once beautifully browned, transfer the seared pork tenderloin to a plate and cover with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes, preserving the tenderness.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring until fragrant.
- Pour in apple cider vinegar to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits. After about a minute, add apple cider, Dijon mustard, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the glaze thickens to about ⅔ cup.
- Finally, return the pork tenderloin to the skillet, generously coating it with the sweet and savory glaze. Allow it to heat through for another 2 minutes before slicing for serving.