Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin is one of those magical dishes that makes your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Imagine succulent pork, perfectly roasted, slathered in a vibrant cranberry-orange glaze that sings sweet and tangy notes in every bite. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your family flocking to the table faster than you can say “What’s for dinner?”
This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s about memories. I remember the first time I made Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin for a holiday gathering. My uncle, who usually only graces us with his presence for the dessert table, was suddenly asking for seconds—and thirds! It became an instant classic at family gatherings, and now it’s our go-to when we’re aiming to impress or simply treat ourselves. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, this dish promises to be the star of the show.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
- Bursting with sweet and tangy flavors, this dish looks stunning on any plate.
- It’s incredibly versatile—serve it with rice, salad, or on its own as a delightful main course.
- Plus, your kitchen will smell divine while it cooks!
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pork Tenderloin: A lean cut of meat that cooks quickly and stays juicy when prepared correctly. Aim for around 1-1.5 pounds for optimal flavor.
- Fresh Cranberries: Look for bright red berries; they should be firm and plump for the best tartness in your glaze.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal as it provides a vibrant flavor that balances the tartness of the cranberries.
- Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps caramelize the pork while roasting, creating a beautiful glaze.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor that complements the sweetness of the cranberries beautifully.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to sear the pork before roasting; it adds richness and depth to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors in this delectable recipe.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness while adding moisture to your sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking dish and give it a spritz of nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks during cooking.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pork
Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork and sear it until golden brown on all sides—about three minutes per side should do just fine.
Step 3: Make Your Glaze
In a mixing bowl, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Stir until well mixed; you’re creating a sweet-tart masterpiece here!
Step 4: Add Glaze to Pork
Once seared, pour half of your cranberry-orange mixture over the pork tenderloin in the skillet. Reserve some glaze for later!
Step 5: Roast It Up
Transfer the skillet into your preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes or until an internal thermometer reads at least 145°F (63°C). The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen—try not to eat it before serving!
Step 6: Serve with Flair
Once cooked through, remove from oven and let rest for five minutes before slicing. Drizzle with reserved glaze before serving—your guests won’t know what hit them!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy this delightful Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin that’s bursting with flavor!
You Must Know
- This delightful Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin recipe combines juicy pork with a tangy cranberry-orange glaze, making it a showstopper for any occasion.
- The vibrant flavors will have your guests asking for seconds and wondering how you managed such culinary magic.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the pork tenderloin on all sides to lock in those tasty juices. While it rests, prepare the cranberry-orange sauce. Bake until the tenderloin reaches 145°F for perfectly juicy meat every time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the cranberries with dried cherries or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth. Experiment with spices like cinnamon or ginger for a unique twist that suits your palate.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, preserving that delicious glaze.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For juicy results, let the pork rest after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute.
- Always use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- For a thicker sauce, reduce it further on the stovetop before serving.
Sometimes I serve this dish during family gatherings, and you can bet my Aunt Marge always asks for the recipe—mostly because she wants to impress her bridge club!
FAQs :
What is the best way to cook Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin?
Cooking Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin requires a perfect balance of flavors. Start by searing the pork tenderloin in a hot skillet to lock in juices. Then, prepare a sauce using fresh cranberries, orange juice, and herbs. After combining the ingredients, pour the sauce over the seared pork and roast it in the oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. This method ensures a juicy and flavorful dish that pairs well with various sides.
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries for your Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. Frozen cranberries may be slightly more tart than fresh ones, so you might want to adjust the sugar in your sauce to balance the flavors. The key is to ensure they are heated through and incorporated into the sauce for a delicious result.
What sides pair well with Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin?
Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Consider serving roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes for a hearty option. A light salad with mixed greens and citrus dressing can also complement the richness of the pork. Additionally, creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice are excellent choices to soak up any extra sauce.
How do I store leftover Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin?
To store leftover Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This way, you can savor this flavorful dish even after your initial meal.
Conclusion for Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin :
Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors perfectly. By searing the tenderloin and creating a tangy cranberry-orange sauce, you elevate this meal into something special. Pair it with seasonal sides and enjoy its versatility during any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy every bite!
Cranberry Orange Tenderloin
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Experience the vibrant balance of sweet and tangy flavors in this Cranberry Orange Tenderloin, a dish that transforms any meal into a memorable occasion.
Ingredients
- 1–1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork for about three minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Stir until well mixed.
- Once seared, pour half of the cranberry-orange mixture over the pork in the skillet. Reserve some glaze for later.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes or until an internal thermometer reads at least 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for five minutes before slicing. Drizzle with reserved glaze before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: - For a thicker sauce, reduce it further on the stovetop before serving. - Substitute cranberries with dried cherries or add balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
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