Garlic Butter Pork Tenderloin

Tender, juicy pork tenderloin coated in rich garlic butter and fragrant herbs, then roasted until beautifully browned. This easy dinner comes together quickly and makes an impressive meal without much effort.

🥩 Ingredients

• 1½ lbs (680 g) pork tenderloin
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped, optional
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, optional

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels.

Trim away any excess silver skin.

2. Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine:

• Softened butter
• Minced garlic
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Parsley
• Rosemary and thyme, if using

Mix until well combined.

3. Season the Pork

Rub the pork tenderloin all over with olive oil.

Season generously with salt and black pepper.

Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the entire tenderloin.

4. Sear the Pork

Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

Place the tenderloin in the hot skillet and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, turning until nicely browned all around.

This step adds a delicious golden crust.

5. Roast

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.

Roast for approximately 15–25 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the tenderloin.

The pork is ready when the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Avoid relying solely on cooking time—use a meat thermometer for the most reliable result.

6. Rest Before Slicing

Remove the pork from the oven and loosely cover it with foil.

Let it rest for 5–10 minutes.

The juices will redistribute, helping keep the tenderloin moist.

7. Slice and Serve

Slice the pork into thick medallions.

Spoon the garlic butter and pan juices over the top.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

⭐ Tips for Juicy Pork Tenderloin

• Don’t overcook the pork; use a meat thermometer to check the center.
• Let the meat rest before slicing.
• Searing first creates a flavorful browned crust.
• Baste the pork with the melted garlic butter and pan juices during roasting.
• Fresh garlic and herbs provide the best flavor.
• Don’t confuse pork tenderloin with pork loin—they are different cuts and require different cooking times.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

Serve with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted potatoes
• Steamed broccoli
• Green beans
• Glazed carrots
• Creamy pasta
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Fresh garden salad

⏱️ Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Rest Time: 5–10 minutes
Total Time: About 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Method: Sear & oven roast
Difficulty: Easy