Sundays were always my favorite growing up. That’s when my mom would pull out all the stops and make a meal fit for a king – and her signature dish was always her Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash. The aroma of the tender pork and the sweet glaze would fill the entire house, and we’d all come running to the table, practically drooling.
Mom’s Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash was the stuff of legends. She had perfected the recipe over the years, and every bite was a perfect balance of savory and sweet. The pork was always juicy and melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the glaze had just the right amount of tartness from the apple cider to complement the natural sweetness of the meat. And those sweet potatoes? Mashed to creamy perfection, with just a hint of warmth from the cinnamon and nutmeg.
To this day, whenever I smell that familiar aroma wafting through the kitchen, it takes me right back to those Sunday dinners with the family. It’s a dish that’s truly become a go-to in my own home, and one that I know you’re going to love just as much as I do.
Why This Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
The secret to this Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash recipe is all in the technique. By searing the pork tenderloin before roasting, you’re able to lock in all those incredible juices, resulting in a perfectly tender and flavorful main course. And the apple cider glaze? It’s the perfect complement, adding a sweet-and-tangy punch that really makes the pork shine. As for those sweet potatoes, the trick is in the mashing – you want them to be silky smooth, with just a hint of warmth from the spices.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pork tenderloin: The star of the show, this lean cut of meat cooks up beautifully and pairs perfectly with the apple cider glaze.
- Apple cider: The key to that irresistible sweet-and-tangy flavor in the glaze.
- Brown sugar: Helps to caramelize the glaze and balance the acidity of the apple cider.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle kick of flavor and helps the glaze cling to the pork.
- Sweet potatoes: The perfect side dish to soak up all the delicious juices from the pork.
- Butter, milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg: The simple ingredients that transform those sweet potatoes into creamy, flavor-packed mashed perfection.
Step-by-Step Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash Instructions
Preparing Your Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
This Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash recipe is a total crowd-pleaser, and it’s surprisingly easy to pull off. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and impressive main course on the table in under an hour. Let’s get started!
1- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. While the oven is heating, take your pork tenderloin and pat it dry with a paper towel. Season it generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2- In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the pork tenderloin and sear it on all sides until a nice golden-brown crust forms, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3- While the pork is searing, prepare the apple cider glaze by combining the apple cider, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Whisk until the sugar has dissolved.
4- Once the pork is seared, pour the apple cider glaze over the top, making sure to coat the entire tenderloin. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
5- As the pork is roasting, peel and dice the sweet potatoes. Add them to a pot of salted boiling water and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
6- Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then mash them until smooth and creamy. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash is all about timing and technique. Be sure to sear the pork tenderloin before roasting to get that gorgeous crust, and keep a close eye on it in the oven to avoid overcooking. As for the sweet potatoes, the trick is in the mashing – you want them to be silky smooth, so take your time and don’t be afraid to add a little extra milk if needed.
Serving and Storing Your Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
Perfect Pairings for Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
This Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash is the ultimate comfort food dish, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages. For a complete meal, try serving it with a fresh green salad, some steamed broccoli or green beans, and a nice dry white wine or a crisp hard cider.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the pork and potatoes in a baking dish and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the entire dish in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve. Just reheat the pork and potatoes in the oven as described above, and you’ll have a delicious and hassle-free meal ready to go.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
Creative Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash Variations
While this Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash recipe is already a winner, there are plenty of ways to mix things up. Try adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, spicy twist. You can also experiment with different fruit juices, like cranberry or pomegranate, in place of the apple cider. And for a seasonal spin, swap out the sweet potatoes for roasted butternut squash or a medley of root vegetables.
Making Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash Diet-Friendly
To make this Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash recipe more diet-friendly, you can make a few simple swaps. For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free Dijon mustard in the glaze. To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter and milk in the sweet potato mash with plant-based alternatives, like coconut milk or almond milk. And for a low-carb take, you can swap the sweet potatoes for mashed cauliflower or roasted radishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pork besides tenderloin?
A: While pork tenderloin is the ideal cut for this recipe, you can also use pork loin or pork chops. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, and you may need to adjust the glaze recipe accordingly.
Q: How do I know when the pork is fully cooked?
A: The best way to ensure your pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare, or 160°F for well-done.
Q: Can I make the sweet potato mash ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The sweet potato mash can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to thin it out if needed.
Q: How much does this recipe serve?
A: This Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash recipe will serve 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes. If you’re serving a larger crowd, you can easily double or even triple the recipe.
Q: What should I do if the glaze starts to burn in the oven?
A: If you notice the glaze starting to burn or caramelize too quickly, simply tent the pork with a piece of foil to prevent further browning. You can also reduce the oven temperature slightly to slow the cooking process.
Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4
Description
Indulge in this juicy pork tenderloin coated in a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, served alongside creamy mashed sweet potatoes for a delicious and satisfying 30-minute meal.
Ingredients
– 1 lb pork tenderloin
– 1 cup apple cider
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
– 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. 2. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. 3. In a large oven-safe skillet, sear the pork on all sides over medium-high heat until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. 4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 10-12 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
5. 5. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, combine the apple cider and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, until reduced and thickened.
6. 6. Add the minced garlic and chopped thyme to the cider glaze and stir to combine.
7. 7. In a separate pot, cover the cubed sweet potatoes with water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, until tender.
8. 8. Drain the sweet potatoes and mash with the butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. 9. Slice the pork tenderloin and drizzle the apple cider glaze over the top.
10. 10. Serve the pork tenderloin with the sweet potato mash on the side.
Notes
For a creamier mash, add a splash of milk or cream to the sweet potatoes. You can also roast the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them for a deeper flavor.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
There’s just something about this Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze and Sweet Potato Mash that makes it the ultimate comfort food dish. The combination of the juicy, flavor-packed pork and the creamy, spice-infused sweet potatoes is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just looking for a cozy, satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!
