Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ pounds pork tenderloin (trimmed of silver skin)
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup (look for 100% maple syrup for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle depth, but regular paprika works too)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for a touch of brightness)
If you’re out of Dijon mustard, a good quality yellow mustard can work, though the flavor will be milder. And if maple syrup isn’t your thing, honey is a decent substitute, but it will change the flavor profile slightly.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the pork roast evenly and get a nice caramelized crust.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar if using. This will be your glaze.
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels—this step helps the glaze stick better. I know it sounds simple, but trust me, it makes a difference. My dad’s lentil pots always started with dry ingredients, and that little prep made all the difference in flavor.
- Place the tenderloin in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Brush the glaze all over the pork, coating it thoroughly.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, brushing with more glaze halfway through. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). I use a meat thermometer because, with two kids distracting me, guessing just doesn’t cut it anymore.
- Once out of the oven, let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial—it lets the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender and juicy. I learned this the hard way in my early kitchen days when rushing dinner meant dry pork. Lesson learned!
- Slice the pork into medallions and drizzle any leftover pan glaze over the top before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Irresistible Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin Recipe, recipe, cooking, food
