How long does it take to cook pork tenderloin in an Instant Pot?

Cooking pork tenderloin in an Instant Pot typically takes about 20 minutes under high pressure. After seasoning and searing the meat, add liquid such as broth or water, seal the lid, and set the pressure cooker for 20 minutes. Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure. This method results in tender, juicy pork ready in less time than traditional cooking.

What is the best way to season pork tenderloin for Instant Pot cooking?

For flavorful pork tenderloin, start by rubbing it with a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. You can also add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Searing the meat in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting before pressure cooking helps lock in flavor and creates a nice crust. Adding broth or apple juice to the pot enhances moisture and taste during cooking.

Can I cook frozen pork tenderloin in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook frozen pork tenderloin in the Instant Pot. Increase the cooking time to about 25 to 30 minutes at high pressure to ensure it cooks through safely. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer. Perform a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before opening the pot to keep the meat tender.

How do I prevent pork tenderloin from drying out in the Instant Pot?

To keep pork tenderloin moist, avoid overcooking by sticking to recommended cooking times and using a meat thermometer to check doneness. Adding at least one cup of liquid such as broth or apple cider to the pot creates steam, which helps maintain moisture. Letting the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes also helps the juices redistribute in the meat, resulting in a tender texture.

What sides pair well with Instant Pot pork tenderloin?

Instant Pot pork tenderloin pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or steamed green beans. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or quinoa for a lighter option. For a flavor boost, drizzle pan sauce made from the Instant Pot’s cooking liquid over the pork and sides. This combination offers a balanced and satisfying meal.

Tender Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin Recipe in 30 Minutes

Name: Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 pork tenderloin (1.25lb 1.5lb) for providing a lean and tender protein; – 2 tablespoons brown sugar for adding a sweet caramelized note to the rub; – 2 teaspoons coarse ground black pepper for bringing a bold, spicy kick; – 1 ¼ teaspoons salt for seasoning the meat evenly; – 1 teaspoon paprika for offering a smoky, vibrant color and depth; – ½ teaspoon onion powder for providing a subtle, savory undertone; – ¼ teaspoon garlic powder for infusing a mellow garlic flavor; – 1 cup chicken broth for creating steam and moisture in the pot; – ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for adding a tangy, umami boost; – 1 teaspoon Liquid Smoke for imparting a smoky essence; – Approximately 1 teaspoon olive oil for coating meat; – 3 tablespoons liquid (from pot after cooking) for making gravy; – 2 tablespoons corn starch for acting as a thickener

Ingredients

– 1 pork tenderloin (1.25lb 1.5lb) for providing a lean and tender protein

– 2 tablespoons brown sugar for adding a sweet caramelized note to the rub

– 2 teaspoons coarse ground black pepper for bringing a bold, spicy kick

– 1 ¼ teaspoons salt for seasoning the meat evenly

– 1 teaspoon paprika for offering a smoky, vibrant color and depth

– ½ teaspoon onion powder for providing a subtle, savory undertone

– ¼ teaspoon garlic powder for infusing a mellow garlic flavor

– 1 cup chicken broth for creating steam and moisture in the pot

– ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for adding a tangy, umami boost

– 1 teaspoon Liquid Smoke for imparting a smoky essence

– Approximately 1 teaspoon olive oil for coating meat

– 3 tablespoons liquid (from pot after cooking) for making gravy

– 2 tablespoons corn starch for acting as a thickener

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Instructions

1-First Step: Prepare the Pork Let the pork tenderloin sit in its packaging at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. This helps it cook evenly. Then, remove it from the package, rinse it under cool water, pat it dry with paper towels, and trim any excess fat. Cut the tenderloin into 2 equal pieces for even cooking.

2-Second Step: Coat and Season Lightly coat each piece of pork with about 1 teaspoon of olive oil to help the seasoning stick. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 teaspoons coarse ground black pepper, 1 ¼ teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. Rub this mixture all over the pork pieces generously.

3-Third Step: Brown the Pork Set your electric pressure cooker to Saute mode and wait until it’s hot. Add the pork pieces and brown them on all sides for a few minutes. This step locks in flavor and creates a nice crust, making a big difference in the final dish.

4-Fourth Step: Deglaze and Add Liquids Remove the browned pork from the pot. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and scrape the bottom well to loosen any browned bits, which adds rich flavor. Stir in ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon Liquid Smoke for extra taste.

5-Fifth Step: Pressure Cook Return the pork pieces to the pot, making sure they’re submerged in the liquid as much as possible. Secure the lid and set the vent to Sealing. Pressure cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, then allow a natural release for 15 minutes.

6-Sixth Step: Rest and Make Gravy Carefully remove the pork from the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. For the gravy, set the pot back to Saute mode. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of the liquid from the pot with 2 tablespoons corn starch until smooth, then pour it back in. Bring it to a boil, stirring constantly, until it thickens to your liking.

Notes

🐖 Use pork tenderloin, not pork loin, for best texture.
⏳ Allow meat to come to room temperature to ensure even cooking.
🌶️ Adjust black pepper amount to suit your taste preferences.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Natural Pressure Release: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Pressure Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving