Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin Recipe

If you’ve been looking for a way to make juicy, flavorful pork tenderloin without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is about to become your new favorite. Cooking pork tenderloin in the Instant Pot takes all the guesswork out—it’s tender, moist, and ready in a fraction of the time compared to oven-roasting. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even impressing guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this tender and flavorful dish:

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Pork

Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with olive oil, then coat evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian herbs.

Step 2: Sear in the Instant Pot

Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the pork on all sides until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side). This step builds flavor!

Step 3: Add Liquid & Flavor Base

Remove the pork temporarily. Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and garlic. Scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon to deglaze and prevent a burn notice.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Place the pork back into the pot. Lock the lid and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (High) for 3 minutes per pound (about 6–7 minutes for an average tenderloin).

Step 5: Natural Release

Allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Rest & Slice

Remove the pork and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps all those juices locked in.

Step 7: Optional Gravy

Switch Instant Pot back to Sauté. Stir cornstarch slurry into the liquid until it thickens into a beautiful glaze. Pour over the sliced pork before serving.

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Recipe Card

📋 Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin

Category	Details
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes (including searing + pressure cooking)
Total Time	~30 minutes
Servings	4
Calories	~285 kcal per serving
Cuisine	American / Comfort Food
Difficulty	Easy

Nutrition (per serving):

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the sear – It adds a rich, caramelized flavor that pressure cooking alone can’t achieve.
• Check doneness – Pork tenderloin is best at 145°F internal temperature (use a meat thermometer).
• Rest before slicing – Cutting too soon will cause juices to escape.
• Make it saucy – The optional glaze takes this from everyday dinner to restaurant-worthy.

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Serving Suggestions

This pork tenderloin is versatile enough to pair with so many sides. Try it with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes and gravy
• Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
• Rice pilaf or garlic butter noodles
• Shredded on sandwiches or wraps the next day

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the rub.
• Asian-Inspired: Swap honey for hoisin sauce, add fresh ginger.
• BBQ Style: Finish with your favorite barbecue sauce instead of the gravy.
• Herb Lovers: Use fresh rosemary or thyme for extra aroma.

FAQs About Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin

Q: Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
A: Yes, but pork loin is larger and denser. Adjust cooking time—about 15–20 minutes instead of 6–7.

Q: What if my pork is frozen?
A: You can cook from frozen, but skip the searing step and pressure cook for 12–14 minutes per pound.

Q: How do I keep pork from drying out?
A: Natural pressure release is key—quick releasing right away can dry out the meat.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes! Just double the seasonings and liquid. Cooking time remains the same.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin is proof that you don’t need a lot of time or complicated steps to make a meal that tastes like a special occasion. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes on Sunday or meal-prep it for weekday lunches, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your rotation.

So, grab your Instant Pot, a juicy pork tenderloin, and let’s get cooking—your family (and your taste buds) will thank you!