Let me tell you, cooking balsamic pork tenderloin in the oven is one of those magical experiences that fills your kitchen with the most savory aromas. Seriously, there’s nothing quite like the sweet and tangy smell of balsamic vinegar mingling with garlic and rosemary as it roasts. This dish is perfect for busy weeknight dinners when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. But it’s also fancy enough for special occasions! Trust me, when you serve this tender, juicy pork, everyone will think you’ve done something extraordinary, and you’ll know it was as easy as pie. Well, easier than pie, really!
Ingredients for Balsamic Pork Tenderloin in Oven
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love!
- 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin: Look for a nice, lean cut that feels firm to the touch. Trim any excess fat for the best results.
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar: Use a good quality balsamic for that rich, tangy flavor that makes this dish shine.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely depth to the marinade while helping to keep the pork moist.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma and flavor that elevates the dish. Don’t skip this part!
- 1 tablespoon honey: Just a touch of sweetness balances out the acidity of the balsamic vinegar beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: This herb complements the pork perfectly, adding an earthy note to the marinade.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key! Don’t be shy; a good amount of salt and pepper enhances all the flavors.
How to Prepare Balsamic Pork Tenderloin in Oven
Cooking balsamic pork tenderloin in the oven is a straightforward process that rewards you with incredible flavor. Let’s dive into the steps for creating this delicious dish!
Preheat the Oven
The first step is to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your pork cooks evenly and develops that beautiful caramelization on the outside. So, make sure to give your oven a few minutes to reach the right temperature before popping in the pork!
Create the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s nicely blended. This marinade is where the magic happens, so make sure every ingredient is well-mixed to maximize the flavor!
Coat the Pork Tenderloin
Now, it’s time to coat the pork! Place the pork tenderloin in a baking dish and pour the marinade over it, making sure to cover the meat thoroughly. I like to use my hands (gently washed, of course!) to rub the marinade into the pork, ensuring it gets all those lovely flavors absorbed.
Bake the Pork
Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15 minutes. You’ll want to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly juicy pork. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, just make sure it’s no longer pink inside!
Rest and Slice
Once it’s done, let the pork rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. When you slice it, you’ll be rewarded with juicy, tender pieces that are bursting with flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success with Balsamic Pork Tenderloin in Oven
For the best flavor and texture, here are some of my favorite tips! First, marinate the pork for at least an hour, or even overnight if you can. This extra time allows the pork to soak up all those delicious flavors. Also, don’t skip the resting period after baking—trust me, it makes a world of difference! You’ll want to slice against the grain for tender pieces that melt in your mouth. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some veggies to the baking dish. They’ll soak up the tasty juices and make a perfect side!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying delicious food, it’s always nice to know what you’re putting into your body! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a guideline. Here’s a typical breakdown per serving of balsamic pork tenderloin:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 36g
Enjoy this flavorful dish knowing you’re fueling your body with a good balance of nutrients!
FAQ About Balsamic Pork Tenderloin in Oven
Can I marinate the pork overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork overnight is a fantastic way to enhance the flavor. The longer the pork sits in that delicious balsamic mixture, the more it absorbs those sweet and savory notes, resulting in an even more tender and juicy dish. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated while it marinates!
What sides go well with balsamic pork tenderloin?
This balsamic pork tenderloin pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! I love serving it alongside roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts, which soak up the juices from the pork. A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette is also a refreshing complement. If you’re feeling extra cozy, buttery mashed potatoes or quinoa are excellent choices, too!
How do I know when the pork is done?
Checking the internal temperature is key to ensuring your pork is perfectly cooked. You’ll want it to reach 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender meat. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, look for the pork to be a nice white color with no pink inside. Trust me, this little step makes all the difference in enjoying a delicious meal!
Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Pork Tenderloin in Oven
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and rosemary creates a savory dish that’s bursting with flavor.
- Healthy Choice: With lean pork tenderloin, this meal is high in protein and low in carbs, fitting perfectly into a balanced diet.
- Impressive Presentation: The rich color and glaze from the marinade make for a stunning dish that will wow your guests.
- Versatile: Serve it with various sides, from roasted veggies to salads, for a meal that suits any occasion.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover balsamic pork tenderloin is super easy! Just place any uneaten portions in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze it! Wrap the pork tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It should keep well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until warmed through—this helps retain its juicy goodness! You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, or it may dry out. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Slow Cooked Brisket. If you want to learn more about the health benefits of balsamic vinegar, visit Healthline.
Print
Balsamic Pork Tenderloin in Oven: 5 Steps to Juicy Perfection
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A savory balsamic pork tenderloin dish cooked in the oven.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, honey, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Place the pork tenderloin in a baking dish.
- Pour the balsamic mixture over the pork, ensuring it is well coated.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the pork tenderloin.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a salad.
- Marinating the pork for a few hours can enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: balsamic pork tenderloin, pork tenderloin recipe, oven-cooked pork tenderloin
