Go Back

Pork Tenderloin With Honey Mustard Glaze - Easy, Juicy, Crowd-Pleasing

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Pork: 1–2 pork tenderloins (about 1 to 1.5 pounds each), silver skin trimmed
  • Salt and pepper: Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Oil: Neutral high-heat oil (e.g., avocado, canola, or grapeseed)
  • Honey: For sweetness and caramelization
  • Mustard: Dijon mustard for tang and a little bite
  • Whole-grain mustard: Optional, for texture and a deeper flavor
  • Garlic: Fresh cloves, minced
  • Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice: For brightness
  • Smoked paprika: Optional, for subtle smokiness and color
  • Fresh herbs: Optional, like thyme or rosemary
  • Butter: Optional, to enrich the glaze at the end

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Trim any silver skin if needed. Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper on all sides.
  2. Mix the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard (optional), 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika if you like. Taste and adjust—more honey for sweetness, more mustard for tang.
  3. Sear the pork: Heat 1–2 tablespoons oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, sear the pork for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly browned all over. Don’t cook it through—just build color.
  4. Glaze and roast: Reduce heat briefly and brush the pork generously with the honey mustard glaze. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 12–18 minutes, depending on thickness, brushing once more halfway through.
  5. Check temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer. You’re aiming for 140–145°F (60–63°C) in the thickest part for juicy, slightly pink meat.
  6. Rest the meat: Transfer the pork to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest 5–8 minutes to reabsorb juices.
  7. Finish the glaze (optional): While the pork rests, place the skillet back on low heat. Add a splash of water or stock to loosen browned bits, then whisk in a small knob of butter for a silky finish. Simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  8. Slice and serve: Slice the tenderloin into 1/2-inch medallions. Spoon pan sauce over the top and serve with your favorite sides.