Prepare to revolutionize your weeknight dinners with this Instant Pot pork tenderloin recipe. Forget dry, bland pork; this method guarantees a remarkably moist, exquisitely tender, and deeply flavorful meal, complete with a sensational homemade gravy, all ready in under an hour. It’s truly a game-changer that stands apart from typical pork tenderloin preparations.
This isn’t just another pork recipe; it’s a culinary experience that transforms a lean cut of meat into something extraordinary. The secret lies in the Instant Pot’s ability to lock in moisture and infuse flavors under pressure, creating a tenderloin that’s unbelievably juicy every time. Served with an unparalleled savory-sweet gravy and perfectly cooked potatoes, this dish is designed to impress and satisfy the entire family.
This Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin recipe has quickly become one of my family’s most requested dinner ideas. It’s a complete, wholesome meal on its own, thanks to the addition of hearty potatoes and a rich gravy, all cooked efficiently in the same pot. What I particularly love about this recipe is how it handles a leaner cut of meat like pork tenderloin, ensuring it emerges from the pressure cooker anything but dry. It’s proof that healthy can be incredibly delicious.
Pro Tip: The star of this show, beyond the succulent pork, is undeniably the gravy. It strikes a perfect balance of savory, subtly sweet, and just the right touch of saltiness, elevating every bite of pork and potato.
Featured Comment
“Amazing recipe, one of my favorites. I did sweet potatoes and also added carrots. Will make again.” -Kern
Essential Ingredients for this Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Crafting this incredible Instant Pot pork tenderloin requires a selection of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
- Pork Tenderloin: We use a 3 lb. pork tenderloin, typically sold as two 1.5-lb tenderloins. This lean, tender cut is ideal for absorbing flavors and cooking quickly.
- Savory Pork Dry Rub: The magic begins with our homemade rub. It’s a balanced blend of brown sugar for sweetness and caramelization, garlic powder and onion powder for deep aromatic notes, and salt and pepper to enhance all the other flavors. This rub creates a beautiful crust and locks in moisture.
- Olive Oil: Essential for searing the pork, creating a golden-brown exterior and developing a rich flavor foundation (Maillard reaction).
- Chicken Broth: The liquid base for pressure cooking, it adds moisture and becomes the foundation for our luxurious gravy. Any good quality chicken broth will do.
- Aromatics: White onion and fresh garlic cloves provide depth and fragrant undertones, infusing the pork and gravy with their distinct characters.
- Potatoes: Large potatoes, either russet or sweet potatoes, are cooked alongside the pork, absorbing the delicious juices and making this a truly complete meal. They are lightly seasoned with chili powder and garlic powder for an extra kick.
- Gravy Enhancers: Worcestershire sauce adds a deep umami flavor and a touch of tang, while cornstarch is the secret to achieving that perfectly thick, glossy gravy consistency.
Perfect Cooking Time for Pork Tenderloin in the Instant Pot
One of the many benefits of using an Instant Pot is its efficiency and precision. For a standard 3 lb. pork tenderloin, the cooking time is surprisingly short, ensuring a tender result without drying out the meat. You’ll set your Instant Pot to high pressure for approximately 15 minutes, followed by a quick release. This swift cooking process is key to maintaining the pork’s succulent texture and allows you to have a gourmet meal on the table in under an hour.
The total cooking time can vary slightly depending on the thickness of your pork tenderloins and whether you’re adding vegetables. We’ll delve into specific timing adjustments for different types of potatoes later in the recipe to ensure everything cooks to perfection.
Understanding Cuts of Pork
Are you curious about the different cuts of pork and where they originate from the pig? We’ve simplified it for you! Gain a deeper understanding of everything pork-related by exploring our comprehensive guide in the favorite pork recipes round up!
Why the Instant Pot is Your Best Friend for Pork Tenderloin
The Instant Pot is a phenomenal tool for cooking pork tenderloin, especially for achieving that sought-after tender and juicy result. Unlike traditional oven roasting or pan-frying, which can sometimes lead to dry pork due to uneven cooking or excessive heat, the Instant Pot excels at creating a moist environment. The high-pressure steam cooking ensures that the meat retains its natural juices while cooking through quickly and evenly. This method is particularly beneficial for lean cuts like tenderloin, which have less fat to keep them moist.
Furthermore, the Instant Pot allows for “one-pot” cooking, enabling you to build layers of flavor right within the same appliance. From searing the pork to deglazing the pot and cooking the vegetables, every step contributes to a cohesive and incredibly flavorful final dish. The sealed environment also means that aromas and spices are deeply infused into the meat, resulting in a more profound taste experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin
Your pork might be tough because it was cooked for too long. While the Instant Pot is great for tenderizing, lean cuts like pork tenderloin can still become dry and tough if overcooked. Precise timing, as outlined in this recipe, is crucial.
For a 3 lb. pork tenderloin, set your Instant Pot to high pressure for approximately 15 minutes, followed by a quick release. This ensures optimal tenderness and juiciness.
Yes, absolutely. Even in a pressure cooker, meat can be overcooked. If it’s a fattier cut of pork, cooking it too long can cause the meat fibers to break down excessively, resulting in a mushy or gritty texture. For lean cuts like tenderloin, overcooking leads to dryness and toughness.
While not strictly necessary for doneness, searing the pork tenderloin beforehand is highly recommended. It creates a flavorful brown crust through the Maillard reaction, which significantly enhances the overall taste and appearance of the final dish. It also helps to lock in juices.
Pork tenderloin is safely cooked and still wonderfully juicy when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness. Always use a reliable meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Enhance Your Meal: Don’t Forget the Potatoes!
No Instant Pot pork tenderloin meal is truly complete without a hearty side of potatoes, and this recipe cleverly incorporates them right into the cooking process. You absolutely can’t go wrong with adding potatoes; they soak up all the incredible flavors from the pork and gravy, becoming soft and delectable. The preparation is simple: just chop your chosen potatoes into bite-sized pieces and toss them with a little chili powder and garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor before they join the pork in the Instant Pot.
We’ve experimented with both russet and sweet potatoes to give you the best guidance for cooking times:
- Sweet Potatoes: These tend to cook faster and only require about 2 minutes of pressure cooking time. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory pork and gravy.
- Russet Potatoes: Russets, with their starchier texture, take a little longer to soften to perfection, typically needing around 4 minutes under pressure. They offer a classic, comforting complement to the meal.
The key to perfect potatoes is adding them at the right stage, which ensures both the pork and the potatoes are cooked optimally without one becoming overdone. This two-stage cooking approach is simple but effective, guaranteeing tender results for both components of your meal.
Precision Potato Timing for Your Instant Pot
Achieving the perfect texture for both your pork and potatoes requires specific timing. Here’s how to adjust your Instant Pot cook times based on your potato choice:
Cooking Sweet Potatoes:
If you opt for sweet potatoes, first cook the pork tenderloin for 17 minutes on high pressure. Once the initial cooking is complete and the pressure has been quick-released, add your seasoned sweet potatoes to the pot and cook for an additional 2 minutes on high pressure. This ensures the sweet potatoes are tender but not mushy.
Cooking Russet Potatoes:
For russet potatoes, begin by cooking the pork tenderloin for 15 minutes on high pressure. After a quick release, incorporate the seasoned russet potatoes and pressure cook for an additional 4 minutes on high. This longer time helps russet potatoes reach a soft, fluffy consistency.
Cooking Without Potatoes:
If you prefer to serve your Instant Pot pork tenderloin without potatoes, simply cook the pork tenderloin for a full 19 minutes on high pressure with a quick release. This slight increase in initial cooking time accounts for the absence of additional ingredients.
Remember, the Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the actual cooking countdown begins for each stage.
The Gravy: A True Culinary Masterpiece
What truly elevates this to the best Instant Pot pork tenderloin recipe you’ll ever try? It’s unequivocally THE GRAVY. This isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a rich, complex sauce that brings the entire meal together, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Once your perfectly cooked pork and tender potatoes are removed from the pressure cooker, the magic happens. You’ll prepare this incredible gravy right in the Instant Pot, utilizing all the flavorful juices left behind. The process is similar to the decadent gravy we create for our Slow Cooker Pork Roast, and I am confident you will absolutely adore it.
This gravy is a harmonious blend of savory and subtly sweet notes, perfectly seasoned with just the right amount of salt. To prepare it, simply switch your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Whisk in the Worcestershire sauce, then gradually incorporate the cornstarch, ensuring no lumps form. The heat from the sauté setting will activate the cornstarch, causing the gravy to thicken beautifully. Continue whisking gently until it reaches a desired, velvety consistency and begins to bubble. Once thickened, remove the gravy from the heat and spoon it generously over your sliced pork tenderloin and potatoes. It’s a simple step that delivers profound flavor.
Storing Your Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin
Proper storage is essential to keep your delicious Instant Pot pork tenderloin fresh and flavorful for future enjoyment. Once cooled, transfer any leftover pork tenderloin, along with its accompanying gravy and potatoes, into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Delightful Serving Suggestions
This Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, especially when served with its luscious gravy and the tender potatoes cooked alongside. However, if you’re looking to round out your meal or explore complementary flavors, here are some delightful serving suggestions:
- Simple Side Salad: A crisp, fresh green salad, like our garden salad, provides a light and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pork and gravy.
- Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus: For an extra boost of vegetables, a side of simply steamed or lightly sautéed green beans or asparagus makes an excellent addition.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t let any of that incredible gravy go to waste! A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop.
- For Dessert: Cap off your meal with something sweet and satisfying, such as our chocolate protein ice cream!
Creative Leftover Ideas: Reinvent Your Pork Tenderloin
Should you find yourself with any leftover Instant Pot pork tenderloin (a rare but delightful occurrence!), don’t let it go to waste. This versatile meat can be transformed into several exciting new meals:
Gourmet Pork Sandwich: Thinly slice the leftover pork tenderloin and layer it on your favorite bread or a toasted bun. Add a slice of sharp cheddar or provolone cheese, a dollop of mayo or Dijon mustard, and fresh lettuce and tomato for a quick and satisfying lunch. For more inspiration, check out our Instant Pot pulled pork sandwich ideas.
Flavorful Pork Salad: Chop the leftover pork tenderloin into bite-sized chunks and toss them over a bed of fresh greens like romaine or mixed spring lettuce. Add your favorite salad toppings such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and a light vinaigrette for a healthy and quick meal.
Quick Pork Stir-Fry: Heat a wok or large pan with a touch of oil. Sauté thinly sliced carrots, snow peas, fresh ginger, and white onion until tender-crisp. Add a teaspoon or two of soy sauce or a dash of sesame oil for flavor. Finally, add the chopped-up pork tenderloin and cook just until warmed through. Serve this delicious stir-fry over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a complete and wholesome dinner.
Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin
Prep: 45 minutes
Cook: 19 minutes
Total: 1 hour 4 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 lb. pork tenderloin, will likely come in a package of 2 1.5-lb. tenderloins
- 1.5 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth, any kind
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 2 large potatoes, we used 1 russet and 1 sweet*
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
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First, place your pork tenderloins on a large baking sheet. A 3 lb. package typically contains two 1.5-lb. tenderloins, which is perfect for this recipe!
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Prepare the dry rub by combining brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, ground cinnamon, dried thyme, and pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle this savory dry rub generously over the pork tenderloins, ensuring all sides are thoroughly covered. Use your hands to gently massage the rub into the meat, creating an even coating.
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Next, add two tablespoons of olive oil to your Instant Pot and activate the sauté feature. Once the olive oil is shimmering and fragrant, carefully place the pork tenderloins into the pot. Sear them on both sides for approximately 3 minutes per side, until they develop a beautiful golden-brown color. This step is crucial for building deep flavor.
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Turn off the sauté feature. Deglaze the bottom of your Instant Pot by pouring in the chicken broth and using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pot. These bits are full of flavor! Add the chopped white onion and smashed garlic cloves to the pot, then secure the lid.
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Ensure the sealing valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Set your Instant Pot to Manual (or Pressure Cook) > High Pressure. Set the timer to 15 minutes if you plan to use russet potatoes, or 17 minutes if you’re using sweet potatoes. Please note that it will take your Instant Pot approximately 10-15 minutes to build enough pressure before the countdown timer begins.
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While your pork tenderloin is pressure cooking, take this time to prepare your potatoes. Dice 2 large potatoes (either russet or sweet) into roughly 1.5-inch chunks. Lightly season them with garlic powder and chili powder, then set them aside.
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Once the initial pressure cooking cycle is complete and the timer goes off, carefully quick-release your Instant Pot by moving the sealing valve to the “Venting” position. Allow all the steam to escape completely before carefully removing the lid. Add the seasoned potato chunks directly on top of your cooked pork tenderloins in the pot.
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Secure the Instant Pot lid once more and set the valve to “Sealing.” Set the Instant Pot to Manual (or Pressure Cook) > High Pressure again. Turn the timer to 2 minutes for sweet potatoes or 4 minutes for russet potatoes. Alternatively, you can start with 2 minutes and add more time if needed. The Instant Pot will again take some time to build pressure before the new countdown begins.
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When the timer signals the second cook cycle is finished, perform another quick release by opening the vent to allow all steam to escape. Carefully open the Instant Pot and test the potatoes for doneness. They should be easy to pierce with a fork. If they are still firm, close the lid and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on high pressure with a quick release. Once tender, remove the potatoes and pork tenderloins from the Instant Pot, leaving the flavorful cooking liquid and onions in the pot to make the gravy.
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Turn the sauté feature back on for the Instant Pot. Add the Worcestershire sauce and cornstarch to the remaining liquid in the pot. Whisk continuously for a few minutes or until the cornstarch activates and the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. It should become glossy and bubble gently.
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Carefully slice the cooked pork tenderloin into medallions. Serve immediately with the luscious homemade gravy and tender potatoes. Enjoy your incredibly tender and flavorful Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin!
Tips & Notes
- Pork Rub Variation: For a convenient shortcut, feel free to use 2-3 tablespoons of our homemade pork dry rub if you already have it prepared in your spice cabinet.
- Skipping Potatoes: If you prefer to omit the potatoes from this recipe, simply cook your pork tenderloin on high pressure for a full 19 minutes with a quick-release. Afterward, proceed directly to step 10 to prepare the delicious gravy.
- Resting the Meat: After removing the pork from the Instant Pot, let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring an even more tender and moist result.
- Thickening the Gravy: If your gravy isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can create a slurry of 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water, and whisk it into the simmering gravy until it reaches your desired consistency.
Watch It
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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Explore More Pork Tenderloin Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed this Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin, you’ll love exploring other ways to prepare this versatile and delicious cut of meat. Pork tenderloin is fantastic for a variety of cooking methods, always yielding tender results when cooked correctly. Here are some more of our favorite recipes to inspire your next meal:
- Sous Vide Pork Tenderloin: For ultimate precision and edge-to-edge perfection.
- Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin: Quick, crispy, and incredibly convenient.
- Grilled Pork Tenderloin: Perfect for outdoor cooking and smoky flavor.
- Best Pork Tenderloin Marinade: Elevate any pork tenderloin dish with our go-to marinades.
Each recipe offers a unique approach to cooking pork tenderloin, ensuring there’s a method and flavor profile for every occasion and taste preference. Expand your culinary repertoire and enjoy the diverse possibilities of this lean and flavorful meat!
Photography: All beautiful photos in this post are by Erin from The Wooden Skillet.