There’s something truly magical about the comforting aroma of Roasted Pork and Apples wafting through your home. As the weather turns crisp and the leaves change color, this dish embodies the essence of fall. The scent of seasoned pork tenderloin sizzling away and sweet apples caramelizing in a skillet evokes memories of cozy family dinners and seasonal gatherings. Picture this: a perfectly seared pork tenderloin, golden on the outside, juicy on the inside, nestled among tender, fragrant apples and onions. It’s a delightful one-pan meal that looks just as appealing as it tastes, making it an instant favorite for any occasion.
I can still remember the first time I tried this dish at a family gathering. My aunt would whip it up on chilly Sunday afternoons, and the warmth and flavors wrapped around us like a blanket. Now, I cherish the tradition of preparing it in my own kitchen, passing down not just a recipe but cherished memories too. Today, I invite you to share in this heartwarming experience and discover just how easy and delectable this dish can be—ready in under an hour!
Table of Contents
Why This Is The Best Roasted Pork and Apples Recipe
This recipe for Roasted Pork and Apples stands out for its delightful combination of simplicity and flavor. In just about 15 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking, you can create an irresistible dish that bursts with flavor and warmth. The tender pork perfectly marries with the sweetness of apples, the savory notes of onions, and the hint of spice from the thyme and cinnamon. Not only does this dish look stunning on a dinner plate, but it also has a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen and beckons everyone to the table. Perfect for everything from a weeknight family dinner to a festive gathering, it adapts beautifully to any occasion, and it can easily fit into various dietary needs with minor tweaks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pork Tenderloin (1.25-1.5 lb): This lean cut of meat is tender and juicy, perfect for roasting. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, a pork loin can be used, though cooking times may vary.
- Avocado Oil (2 Tbsp): A high-smoke point oil great for searing. Olive oil can be used as a substitute.
- Dried Thyme (1.5 tsp total): Adds earthy flavor, enhancing the pork. Fresh thyme can also be used for a brighter taste.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Provides a savory depth without the harshness of fresh garlic. Feel free to swap it for fresh garlic if preferred.
- Ground Cinnamon (1/2 tsp): Gives a warming note that complements the apples perfectly. Nutmeg is a nice alternative for a different flavor profile.
- Coarse Salt & Black Pepper (to taste): Enhances overall flavors; sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper work wonderfully.
- Sweet Apples (1 lb): Varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji hold up well to roasting and add a delicious sweetness. Feel free to mix types—Granny Smith for tartness, perhaps!
- Vidalia Onion (1): This sweet onion counterpart balances the flavors well. Yellow onions can be substituted but will impart a sharper taste.
- Unsalted Butter (3 Tbsp): Adds richness and a lovely browned flavor when melted. Can be omitted for a healthier version or replaced with oil.
- Apple Cider (1/2 cup): Contributes sweetness and acidity to the sauce. Substitute with white grape juice for a non-alcoholic version.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth (1/2 cup): Keeps everything moist and adds flavor. Homemade or store-bought works fine.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (3 Tbsp): Offers brightness to the dish; can be adjusted or replaced with balsamic vinegar in a pinch.
How to Make Roasted Pork and Apples
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While the oven heats, prepare a 12-inch cast iron skillet—greasing it with a bit of avocado oil will ensure nothing sticks. If you don’t have a skillet, any oven-safe pan will work just fine. Taking a few extra minutes now will make your cooking experience smoother—trust me!
Clean the Pork
Carefully remove the pork tenderloin from its packaging and pat it dry with a paper towel. It’s essential to remove any silverskin, that glossy layer on the meat that can impede tenderness. To do this, use a sharp knife to gently slide beneath the silverskin and slice it away without cutting into the meat itself. This little effort goes a long way in ensuring your pork stays tender and juicy during cooking.
Season the Meat
In a small bowl, combine your dried thyme, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix generously over the pork tenderloin, using your hands to massage it into the meat for optimal flavor infusion. Putting the seasoned tenderloin in a rimmed dish helps keep the seasoning focused and well-distributed.
Sear and Sauté
Heat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, adding a splash of avocado oil. Once hot, carefully place the tenderloin in the skillet, searing each side for about a minute—this locks in the juices and creates a beautiful crust. Once all sides are browned, remove the tenderloin and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the sliced Vidalia onion. Cook until the onion begins to turn golden brown—this enhances the sweetness and richness of the dish. When the onions are ready, add the sliced apples, seasoning them with salt, thyme, and a dash of pepper, cooking until they begin to soften and brown slightly.
Add Butter and Nestle the Pork
Add those luscious pads of unsalted butter into the skillet. Let it melt and mix with the apples and onions, creating a delightful sauce. Make a little space in the center of the skillet and nestle the seared tenderloin right back into the pan.
Pour and Roast
Give your sauce a final stir, then pour the mixture of apple cider and broth all over the pork and apples in the skillet. Finally, carefully transfer the skillet into the preheated oven, roasting for about 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F. Make sure to check with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Rest, Slice, and Serve
Once the tenderloin is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is flavorful and moist. After resting, slice the pork into half-inch pieces, and serve it drizzled with that delicious apple-cider sauce. Pair it with additional sides for a complete meal or enjoy it as is.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Rush the Resting Time: Allowing the pork to rest after cooking leads to better texture and flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This tool is essential for ensuring your pork is cooked perfectly—145°F is your go-to temperature.
- Watch Out for the Silverskin: If not removed, it may result in chewy bites rather than melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- Experiment with Apples: Different apple varieties can bring out unique flavor profiles; feel free to try a mix for variety.
Serve It With
Consider serving your Roasted Pork and Apples alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal or a fresh salad to balance the richness. This dish also pairs beautifully with a tangy coleslaw, bringing a crunch that complements the tender pork and sweet apple sauce. If you’re feeling festive, serve it with a side of crusty bread to mop up that delicious sauce.
How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, make sure to let the pork cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Properly stored, it will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked pork and apples in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave in short intervals, ensuring even heating.
Tips & Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable! For a twist, consider swapping the apple cider for a splash of white wine for a more sophisticated sauce. You can also replace the pork tenderloin with chicken thighs for a different protein or even try this recipe with a protein alternative like tofu, adjusting cooking times as necessary. Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne or paprika to the seasoning blend. Enjoy experimenting to find your favorite version!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken or turkey, although cooking times will vary. Just ensure you reach the recommended internal temperatures for each type.
What is the best way to slice the pork?
It’s best to slice the pork against the grain. This helps maintain tenderness and prevents chewy bites.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the pork with the seasoning and prep the apples and onions ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator and follow the cooking steps when you’re ready to serve.
Is it okay if the pork is slightly pink?
Yes, as long as it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, it’s perfectly safe to eat. A hint of pink in the center is actually the desired doneness for pork tenderloin.
In conclusion, this Roasted Pork and Apples recipe is not just about the flavors and ingredients; it’s about creating memories in the kitchen and sharing hearty meals with loved ones. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or raising the bar for your next gathering, you’ll find this dish is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the wonderful flavors—happy cooking!
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Recipe Card
Roasted Pork and Apples
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Roasted Pork and Apples recipe brings the warmth of fall right to your table. Juicy pork tenderloin pairs beautifully with caramelized apples and savory onions, making it a perfect comfort meal for any gathering.
Ingredients
- Pork Tenderloin (1.25-1.5 lb)
- Avocado Oil (2 Tbsp)
- Dried Thyme (1.5 tsp total)
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp)
- Ground Cinnamon (1/2 tsp)
- Coarse Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
- Sweet Apples (1 lb)
- Vidalia Onion (1)
- Unsalted Butter (3 Tbsp)
- Apple Cider (1/2 cup)
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth (1/2 cup)
- Apple Cider Vinegar (3 Tbsp)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a 12-inch cast iron skillet with avocado oil.
- Prepare the pork tenderloin by removing silverskin and patting it dry.
- Mix thyme, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper; rub this mixture over the pork.
- Sear the pork in a hot skillet until browned on all sides and set aside.
- Sauté onions in the same skillet until golden, then add sliced apples and season them.
- Add butter and let it melt with the apples and onions; then, nestle the pork back in the skillet.
- Pour in apple cider and broth, then roast in the oven for 20 minutes until pork reaches 145°F.
- Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Allow the pork to rest after cooking to retain juices.
A meat thermometer ensures accurate cooking temperatures.
Different apple varieties can enhance flavor profiles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
