Fall Recipes Pork Tenderloin: Easy & Delicious Ideas

As the crisp air of fall settles in and leaves begin to paint the landscape in shades of amber and gold, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting meal that celebrates the season’s rich flavors. Pork tenderloin is a perfect centerpiece for fall recipes, offering a tender, juicy protein that pairs beautifully with autumnal ingredients like apples, squash, and warming spices.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a festive gathering, pork tenderloin dishes bring a touch of elegance and rustic charm to your table.

In this post, we’ll explore some delectable fall recipes featuring pork tenderloin that are easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor. From savory glazes to hearty sides, these recipes highlight the best of the season’s produce and will quickly become staples in your fall cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with pork tenderloin this season. First, its lean yet tender texture makes it a healthier alternative to fattier cuts without sacrificing flavor.

The mild taste of pork tenderloin allows it to absorb a wide variety of spices, herbs, and glazes, making it incredibly versatile for fall-themed dishes.

Additionally, pork tenderloin cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties. Its size is ideal for roasting whole or slicing into medallions, which means you can customize the presentation to suit any occasion.

Paired with seasonal ingredients like apples, cinnamon, and butternut squash, pork tenderloin becomes a celebration of fall on your plate.

Ingredients

• 1.5 to 2 lbs pork tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 medium apples, cored and sliced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 cup butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Equipment

• Roasting pan or oven-safe skillet
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Meat thermometer
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Aluminum foil
• Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the tenderloin to juicy perfection while allowing the natural sugars in the glaze to caramelize.
2. Prepare the pork tenderloin. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Trim any silver skin or excess fat to prevent chewy bits.
3. Mix the seasoning. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and minced garlic. Rub this mixture all over the pork tenderloin.
4. Heat olive oil in a roasting pan or skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Prepare the glaze. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup until smooth.
6. Apply half of the glaze to the seared pork. Reserve the rest for basting during roasting.
7. Arrange the apples and butternut squash around the pork in the roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables to keep them moist during roasting.
8. Place the pan in the preheated oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes, basting the pork with the remaining glaze halfway through.
9. Check doneness with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Remove from oven once it hits this temperature.
10. Rest the meat. Tent the pork with aluminum foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute the juices.
11. Slice and serve. Cut the pork into medallions and serve with the roasted apples and squash on the side, spooning any pan juices over the top.

Tips & Variations

For an extra depth of flavor, marinate the pork overnight in the glaze mixture before cooking.

Try swapping apples for pears or adding dried cranberries to the roasting pan for a sweet-tart twist.

If you prefer a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the seasoning rub.

To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure your Dijon mustard and chicken broth are certified gluten-free.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This pork tenderloin recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement its fall flavors. Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf for a hearty meal.

Roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed green beans with garlic add a nice contrast of texture and color.

For a lighter option, a crisp autumn salad with toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and a maple vinaigrette would balance the richness of the pork beautifully. Don’t forget a glass of lightly chilled white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Riesling, to enhance the meal’s flavors.

Conclusion

Fall recipes featuring pork tenderloin offer a perfect blend of comfort, nutrition, and seasonal flavor that can elevate any dinner occasion. This recipe’s balance of sweet and savory, combined with tender, juicy pork, makes it a reliable favorite for the cooler months.

It’s straightforward enough for weeknight cooking yet elegant enough for entertaining, showcasing the versatility of pork tenderloin in autumn dishes.

By using fresh fall produce and simple pantry staples, you can create a memorable meal that captures the essence of the season. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe invites you to embrace fall cooking with warmth and creativity.

Happy cooking, and enjoy the delicious flavors of fall!

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