Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin – Sweet, Savory, and Juicy Every Time

This Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin is the kind of dish that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier.

With simple pantry spices and a quick homemade sauce, it delivers restaurant-level flavor in under 30 minutes.

The pork comes out juicy and tender, coated in a sticky-sweet, garlicky glaze that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Whether you’re making dinner for the family or hosting friends, this one-skillet recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & easy – 30 minutes start to finish

One-skillet cooking – Fewer dishes to wash

Juicy & flavorful – Pork tenderloin stays moist and tender

Naturally gluten-free – With tamari or coconut aminos

Perfect for any occasion – Weeknight dinner or dinner party

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Pork Tenderloin:

Pork tenderloins – Lean, tender, and quick to cook

Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika – Build deep savory flavor

Kosher salt + black pepper – Simple seasoning that enhances everything

Olive oil – For searing to lock in moisture

Honey Garlic Sauce:

Honey – Adds sweetness and helps create a glaze

Tamari or coconut aminos – Gluten-free umami

Apple cider vinegar – Balances the sweetness with acidity

Fresh garlic – The bold flavor that ties it all together

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use a meat thermometer – Prevents overcooking and keeps the pork juicy

Let the pork rest – Resting keeps juices inside when sliced

Sear before baking – Adds flavor and locks in moisture

Reduce the sauce – Simmer briefly for a thicker glaze

Use an oven-safe skillet – Makes this a true one-pan meal

How to Make Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin

Step 1: Prep & Season

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Mix 1 tsp each garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt + ½ tsp pepper.

Step 2: Make Sauce

Whisk ½ cup honey, ¼ cup tamari, 2 tbsp vinegar, and 6 minced garlic cloves. Set aside.

Step 3: Season the Pork

Rub the spice mix over 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 lb each), coating evenly.

Step 4: Sear the Tenderloin

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.

Add pork and sear, turning to brown all sides (about 4 minutes total).

Step 5: Add Sauce and Roast

Turn off heat. Pour sauce into skillet and turn pork to coat.

Transfer skillet to oven and roast for 15–20 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 140°F (60°C).

Step 6: Rest and Reduce the Sauce

Remove pork to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and rest for 5–10 minutes.

Meanwhile, return skillet to stove.

Simmer sauce for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.

Optional: Stir in a cornstarch slurry for a thicker glaze.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Slice pork into ½-inch rounds.

Plate and drizzle with honey garlic sauce.

What to Serve with Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin

Garlic mashed potatoes – For soaking up the sauce

Steamed broccoli or green beans – Fresh and crisp contrast

White or brown rice – Classic pairing

Cauliflower mash – For a low-carb option

Simple garden salad – To lighten the plate

Variations & Substitutions

Make it spicy – Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce

Use chicken breast – Works well if you don’t have pork

Swap sweeteners – Try maple syrup or agave instead of honey

Fresh herbs – Add chopped parsley or thyme after baking

Citrus twist – Add orange juice or zest for brightness

Storage & Leftover Tips

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days

Freezer: Freeze cooked pork + sauce for up to 2 months

Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water

Meal prep: Slice and portion into containers with rice or veggies

FAQs

Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
Yes, but increase the cook time—pork loin is thicker and denser.

Do I have to sear the pork?
Searing adds flavor and color, but you can skip it in a pinch.

Is tamari the same as soy sauce?
Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a slightly richer taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead?
Yes! Prep and sear the pork, then store in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
Sear the pork in any pan, then transfer everything to a baking dish before roasting.

Can I thicken the sauce more?
Yes—simmer longer or whisk in 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water to thicken.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The honey garlic flavor is sweet and mild—kids love it.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin is proof that weeknight meals can be both simple and elegant.

With its bold flavor, tender texture, and minimal effort, it’s one recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.

Serve it up with your favorite sides and watch it disappear!