Description

Craving a quick, flavorful meal that’s both elegant and easy enough for a weeknight? The Caramelized Pork Tenderloin is your answer! This recipe features tender pork tenderloin slices coated in a sweet, garlicky brown sugar crust and seared to caramelized perfection

Ingredients

To make Caramelized Pork Tenderloin for 4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this elegant dish:

Pork Tenderloin (1 lb): Lean, tender cut that’s perfect for quick cooking.
Packed Brown Sugar (¼ cup): Creates a sweet, caramelized crust.
Garlic Cloves (4, minced): Adds bold, savory depth.
Montreal Steak Seasoning (1 tbsp): Provides a peppery, savory blend with a hint of spice.
Butter (2 tbsp): Enhances richness and helps form a golden crust.

Substitutions and Variations:

Pork Tenderloin: Swap with boneless pork chops, chicken breast, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Brown Sugar: Use maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar for a different sweetness.
Montreal Steak Seasoning: Replace with a mix of black pepper, paprika, and dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary) or your favorite steak seasoning.
Butter: Substitute with olive oil, ghee, or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
Add-Ons: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The pork provides lean protein, while the brown sugar and butter create a rich, caramelized coating. The garlic and steak seasoning add savory depth, making this a balanced, flavorful meal that’s both hearty and light, perfect for any occasion

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pork

Cut 1 lb pork tenderloin into 4 equal pieces.
Using a meat mallet, pound each piece to a ¼-inch thickness for quick, even cooking.
In a shallow bowl, mix ¼ cup packed brown sugar, 4 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp Montreal steak seasoning.
Dip each pork piece into the brown sugar mixture, patting gently to help the coating adhere.

Tip: Pound the pork evenly to ensure consistent cooking, and press the coating firmly to prevent it from falling off during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Pork

In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat until slightly foaming.
Add the coated pork pieces in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until tender, golden brown, and caramelized (internal temperature of 145°F for medium).
Remove from the skillet and let rest for 3 minutes.

Tip: Avoid overcrowding the skillet for a better caramelized crust; cook in batches if needed. Don’t move the pork until ready to flip for a perfect sear.

Step 3: Serve

Transfer the pork to plates or a serving platter.
Serve hot, garnished with optional herbs if desired.

Tip: Serve immediately to enjoy the caramelized crust at its crispiest and the pork at its juiciest