Pork tenderloin with apples is a tasty dish that combines tender pork with sweet, juicy apples. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner and makes a lovely balance of meat and fruit.
I once made this and ended up sneaking bites of apple straight from the pan! It’s a fun way to add a little extra sweetness to the meal.
If you want, serve it with mashed potatoes or a simple green salad for a complete, easy-to-serve meal everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This lean cut stays tender and moist if cooked properly. I’d recommend trimming excess fat and searing it well. If pork isn’t available, chicken breast is a lighter alternative, though it’s less juicy.
Apples: I like using tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast, but Fuji or Honeycrisp work well too. Make sure to slice them evenly so they cook at the same rate. Frozen apples? Not ideal—they lose texture.
Onion & Garlic: These aromatics form the base flavor. Use fresh garlic for the best punch. If you forget, garlic powder can work in a pinch—use about half as much as fresh for similar flavor.
Cinnamon & Sugar: A touch of cinnamon adds warmth, and sugar sweetens the dish slightly. Ground nutmeg or allspice can be good substitutes. Adjust to taste, as these spices can quickly overpower if overused.
How do I sear pork tenderloin without it drying out?
Searing locks in moisture and creates a tasty crust. Heat your pan over medium-high and wait until it’s hot. Sear the pork about 2-3 minutes per side until golden, then transfer it to finish cooking. Avoid moving the meat too soon.
- Step 1: Pat the pork dry to help it sear properly. Excess moisture can cause steaming.
- Step 2: Place the pork in the hot pan without crowding. Sear each side evenly.
- Step 3: Use tongs to turn the meat gently, avoiding piercings that let juices escape.
- Step 4: Finish in the oven if needed, to keep the pork juicy and cooked through.
How to Make Pork Tenderloin with Apples?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Apples:
- 2 large apples (such as Fuji or Granny Smith)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Additional:
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes | Cooking: 25 minutes | Resting: 5 minutes | Total: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the oven and pork
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the pork tenderloin
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the apples
Core and slice the apples. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add apples, honey, and cinnamon. Cook 5-7 minutes until tender.
4. Roast the pork
Place the seared pork in a baking dish. Pour the cooked apples around it. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the pork reaches 145°F.
5. Rest and serve
Allow the pork to rest for 5 minutes. Slice the pork and serve with apples on the side. Garnish with parsley if desired.
