This Garlic Roasted Pork Tenderloin is tender meat seasoned with garlic and roasted until golden. It’s simple to make and perfect for a quick, tasty dinner.
I like to squeeze a little lemon over it after roasting. It makes the pork taste even better and adds a fresh touch.
For an easy meal, serve with roasted veggies or a salad. It’s a healthy choice that cooks up nice and quick!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic:
I use fresh garlic for that punch of flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder works well—just cut the amount in half. I love roasting garlic with the pork for a mellow aroma, but minced garlic added later is a quick alternative.
Pork tenderloin:
This cut stays tender and juicy if cooked carefully. If unavailable, chicken breasts or beef tenders can be used, though cooking times will vary. Look for a tenderloin that’s evenly shaped for even roasting.
Olive oil:
I use olive oil to help bring out the garlic flavor and keep the pork moist. If you have better-tasting oils like avocado or canola, they work just fine. Avoid too much oil—just enough to coat the meat evenly.
Herbs & spices (rosemary, salt, pepper):
Fresh or dried herbs add Aroma. Rosemary is my favorite, but thyme works beautifully, too. Use Kosher salt for better seasoning. Adjust spices to your taste—less salt for a lighter dish.
How do I roast pork tenderloin without it drying out?
Roasting pork tenderloin can be tricky because it’s lean. To keep it moist, I recommend searing it first for 2-3 minutes per side in a hot skillet, then roasting. Use a meat thermometer—aim for 145°F, then rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Sear the pork in an oven-safe skillet with oil until browned on all sides, about 6 minutes total.
- 2. Transfer the skillet to the oven or move the meat to a baking dish. Roast until the internal temp hits 145°F—about 15-20 minutes.
- 3. Remove from oven, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes. This helps juices stay in, keeping the meat tender.
How to Make Garlic Roasted Pork Tenderloin?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pork Tenderloin
- 1 to 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
Garlic Marinade
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes, Cooking: 25 minutes, Resting: 5 minutes. Total: about 40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the marinade
Mix minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs in a small bowl.
2. Marinate the pork
Rub the marinade all over the pork tenderloin. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Let it heat fully before baking.
4. Roast the pork
Place the tenderloin on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes until the internal temp reaches 145°F.
5. Rest and serve
Let the pork rest for 5 minutes. Slice and serve. Enjoy!
