Pork tenderloin is one of the most tender cuts of pork. However, it can still get tough if cooked incorrectly. That's why I love my Instant Pot! This Garlic Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin comes out juicy, tender, and it's packed full of flavor!
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Why This Recipe Works
Other than a beautifully juicy and delicious slice of pork tenderloin, there are other reasons you are going to love this recipe. Here are just a few:
- Simple ingredients: You don't need extravagant ingredients for this pork tenderloin recipe. In fact, all the ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Dinner is on the table in a jiffy. Pork tenderloins only takes 30 minutes to pressure cook. This means you can throw it in and have dinner ready in a hurry.
- Goes perfectly with any side. This garlic pork tenderloin goes perfectly with almost any side you choose.
If you want to cook pork tenderloin, you may want to pair it with Vinegar Coleslaw and tasty Hawaiian Buns. Making pork tenderloin has never been easier!
📋 Ingredients
For this recipe, you just need simple ingredients. In fact, you probably already have all these ingredients at your disposal.
- Pork tenderloin: This recipe calls for a 3 pound slab of pork tenderloin. However, keep in mind that even if you have more, you can still follow the recipe.
- Olive oil: You can use olive oil, vegetable oil, or even butter to sauté your tenderloin. Olive oil is a healthier option. You will also need butter to season your tenderloin.
- Seasonings: Pull out the salt and pepper for this recipe.
- Broth: You need a liquid for the Instant Pot to come to pressure. I find chicken broth makes meats juicier and more tender, but you can use water if you don't have any.
- Garlic: Garlic is the ingredient that gives pork tenderloin recipes like this an enhanced flavor
For the complete list of ingredients with measurements and instructions, please see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
🔀 Substitutions & Variations
Here are some variations for pressure cooking tender pork tenderloin with different flavor profiles:
- Citrus Marinated Pork Tenderloin: Marinate the pork in a mixture of orange juice, lime juice, garlic, and cilantro for a zesty and refreshing twist.
- Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin: Brush the pork with a glaze made of honey, garlic, and a touch of balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin: Coat the pork in a mixture of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley for a savory and aromatic crust.
- Asian Pork Tenderloin: Cover the pork loin roast with soy sauce and garlic for an Asian twist.
Substitutions:
- Garlic: Switch the minced garlic cloves for garlic powder for a similar flavor.
- Broth: We add chicken broth to this recipe but feel free to use any kind of broth.
🔪How To Make Instant Pot Garlic Pork Tenderloin
- Step 1: First, place oil in the Instant Pot and push the sauté or sear button. Next, pat dry your pork tenderloin. Rub butter all over the tenderloin. Then, season it with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
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- Step 2: When the oil is hot, place the pork tenderloin in the Instant Pot and brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes each before flipping. Once the pork tenderloin is browned all over, turn off the sauté mode. Add ½ cup broth and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
- Step 3: When the pressure cooking time ends, allow the pressure to release naturally. All you have to do is wait until the metal pin on the Instant Pot lid drops and the lid unlocks. Serve and Enjoy!
👩🍳 Expert Tips
- Select the Right Cut: Choose a fresh pork tenderloin that feels firm to the touch and has a small amount of marbling for the best flavor and tenderness. Avoid pieces that look dry or have a lot of silverskin, which should be trimmed before cooking.
- Brine for Moisture: For extra juiciness, consider brining your pork tenderloin before cooking. A simple brine can be made with water, salt, and sugar, and you can add flavors like garlic, herbs, and spices. Brine the pork for a few hours to help it retain moisture and enhance its flavor.
- Sear Before Roasting: If roasting, begin by searing the pork tenderloin on all sides in a hot pan with a bit of oil. This creates a flavorful crust and seals in the juices. Then, transfer to the oven to finish cooking at a moderate temperature, around 325°F (163°C), to keep it tender.
- Cook to the Right Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to cook the pork tenderloin to the right internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures it's safe to eat yet remains tender and moist. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Keep Seasonings Simple: Pork tenderloin has a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings. Keep it simple with salt and pepper, or experiment with marinades and spice rubs that include ingredients like mustard, rosemary, or garlic to complement its natural flavor.
💭 FAQs
Most meats need to be cooked slowly for tenderness, but NOT pork tenderloin. It is already one of the most tender cuts of pork, but it can get tough if you overcook it. That’s why cooking pork tenderloin in your Instant Pot is the perfect option. It cooks it fast, but still keeps all the juices in making it tender and delicious.
The best thing about using your Instant Pot is it’s ability to cook any meat from frozen. However, it is important to keep in mind that you will need to cook it longer if you are cooking it from frozen. For this recipe, you will want to cook frozen tenderloin for 60 minutes instead of 30.
Yes, marinating pork tenderloin overnight allows it to absorb flavors more deeply. Store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container or a zip-top bag.
Yes, pork tenderloin can be butterflied and stuffed with various ingredients like herbs, cheese, or fruits for added flavor.
While it’s typically cooked whole, you can slice pork tenderloin into medallions or butterfly it for quicker cooking. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Allow the cooked pork tenderloin to cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes before storing.
Wrap the cooked pork tenderloin tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth. Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
To freeze the cooked pork tenderloin. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the freezing date and store for up to 2-3 months.
Serving Suggestions
These are my favorite side dishes to serve with garlic pork tenderloin:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful, the perfect match for succulent pork tenderloin.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs, roasted to caramelized perfection.
- Brussels Sprouts With Almonds: Almonds complement the roasted Brussels sprouts, creating a savory harmony.
🍜 Related Recipes
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Instant Pot Garlic Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 3 lb Pork Tenderloin
- ¼ cup Butter
- 3 Tablespoons Garlic minced
- ½ cup Broth
- Salt And Pepper to taste
- Parsley optional for garnish
Instructions
- Place oil in the Instant Pot and set to saute.
- Pat dry your pork tenderloin, season with salt and pepper, and rub all over with butter and minced garlic.
- When the oil is hot, place the pork tenderloin in the Instant Pot and brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes each before flipping.
- Once the pork tenderloin is browned all over, turn off the saute mode and add ½ cup broth or water.
- Secure the lid and cook on meat setting for 30 minutes.
- Natural release.
Nutrition
More Incredible Instant Pot Recipes
I always struggle when cooking pork, but the Instant Pot makes it tender, juicy and delicious every time! If you are looking for other pork recipes for your Instant Pot, here are some of my favorites:
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