Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Apple-Apple Cider Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender pork tenderloin coated in a savory herb crust, paired with a tangy apple cider reduction for a balanced dinner. This american-inspired pork ready in about 45 minutes blends (1.5-pound) piece pork tenderloin, teaspoons, finely chopped fresh thyme, teaspoon, finely chopped fresh rosemary into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 380 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 25 min Serves 4 American cuisine 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix thyme, rosemary, minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  2. Step 2: Rub herb mixture evenly over entire surface of pork, then coat lightly with 2 tablespoons flour.
  3. Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear pork for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. Step 4: Transfer skillet to preheated 400°F oven and roast for 15-18 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
  5. Step 5: While pork roasts, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add diced apple and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
  6. Step 6: Add apple cider and white wine, bring to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes until sauce reduces by half and coats the back of a spoon.
  7. Step 7: Remove pork from oven, tent with foil, and rest for 10 minutes. Slice into 1/2-inch medallions and serve with warm apple cider sauce spooned over top.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Apple-Apple Cider Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (20 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Apple-Apple Cider Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Apple-Apple Cider Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Apple-Apple Cider Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Apple-Apple Cider Sauce?

American pork like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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