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Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin: A Festive Holiday Dinner Recipe

Sliced Cranberry Orange Pork Tenderloin on white platter with glossy cranberry glaze
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A festive and flavorful pork tenderloin with a sweet and tangy cranberry orange glaze, perfect for a holiday dinner or special occasion. This easy-to-make dish is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pork tenderloins (1 lb each), trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the pork tenderloins dry with paper towels. Rub them all over with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork tenderloins and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until nicely browned. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the cranberry sauce, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and thyme. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  5. Return the pork tenderloins to the skillet, spooning some of the glaze over the top.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
  7. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the pork to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
  8. While the pork is resting, place the skillet on the stovetop over medium heat and let the glaze simmer for a few minutes to thicken, if desired.
  9. Slice the pork tenderloin into 1/2-inch thick medallions and serve with the extra cranberry orange glaze spooned over the top.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the pork. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s perfectly cooked and juicy.
  • Fresh thyme and orange zest will give you the best flavor, but dried and bottled versions work in a pinch.
  • Store leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.benefitiany.com/cranberry-orange-pork-tenderloin/