This Garlic Herb Pork Tenderloin is a tasty dish made with tender pork cooked with garlic, fresh herbs, and olive oil. It has a nice mix of flavors that make it perfect for any occasion.
I like to imagine I’m a chef when I rub herbs and garlic all over the pork. It makes me feel fancy even if I’m just at home!
My tip: let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking so the juices stay inside. It makes every bite juicier and more delicious.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a bright, pungent flavor. I like to crush and mince it for the best taste, but garlic powder is a quick alternative. Use about 3 cloves or 1 teaspoon garlic powder for a milder or stronger punch.
Fresh Herbs (like thyme or rosemary): These herbs bring a fragrant, piney note. I love fresh herbs, but dried can work—use a third of the amount. They add depth, so don’t skip them if you can find fresh!
Olive Oil: Helps the pork sear and keeps it moist. I prefer extra virgin for flavor, but any cooking oil works. Use 2-3 tablespoons to make sure the pork browns nicely without sticking.
Pork Tenderloin: The star of the dish—lean and tender. Look for a uniform thickness for even cooking. If you can’t find tenderloin, you can use pork loin roast, but cooking time might need adjustment.
How do I sear pork without it drying out?
Start with a hot skillet to get a good sear—this locks in juices. Pat the pork dry before cooking to prevent sticking. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until browned, then lower the heat and finish cooking through. Rest the meat before slicing.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the pork.
- Don’t move the pork around; let it develop a crust.
- Use a thermometer to check for doneness (145°F).
- Rest the meat covered loosely for 5 minutes before slicing.
How to Make Garlic Herb Pork Tenderloin?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 1 (1 to 1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Herb Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Additional herbs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes, Cooking: 25 minutes, Resting: 5 minutes. Total time: about 40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the oven and tenderloin
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Mix garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
2. Season the pork
Rub the herb mixture evenly over the tenderloin. Drizzle with olive oil and massage so the spices stick well.
3. Sear the pork
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloin for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. This adds flavor and locks in juices.
4. Roast the tenderloin
Transfer the skillet to the oven or move the pork to a baking dish. Roast for about 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5. Rest and serve
Let the pork rest for 5 minutes. Slice and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
