Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin with Honey Balsamic Sauce

A Flavorful, Tender Pork Dish in Under 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a quick yet gourmet meal, this Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin with Honey Balsamic Sauce is a must-try. With only 30 minutes of total cook time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights while still feeling like a restaurant-quality meal. The combination of tender pork and a sweet-savory balsamic glaze makes it truly irresistible.

A Special Dish with a Personal Twist

I first fell in love with pork tenderloin during a family dinner when my grandmother made a balsamic-glazed version that was out of this world. Determined to recreate that comforting dish with a modern twist, I turned to my Instant Pot for a quicker, more foolproof approach. The result? A pork tenderloin that’s incredibly juicy, infused with deep flavors, and finished with a glossy honey balsamic sauce.

What makes this version stand out is the balance between the tangy balsamic vinegar, the subtle sweetness of honey, and the richness of garlic and herbs. While this is my go-to version, you can easily customize it by adding mustard for extra tang or swapping honey for maple syrup.

Ingredient Notes

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

• Pork tenderloin – A lean cut that stays tender when cooked quickly under pressure.
• Balsamic vinegar – Provides a deep, slightly sweet tangy base for the sauce.
• Honey – Balances out the acidity of the balsamic vinegar.
• Garlic – Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• Soy sauce – Enhances umami and adds a touch of saltiness.
• Olive oil – Helps sear the pork to lock in flavor.
• Chicken broth – Adds moisture and enhances the sauce.
• Italian seasoning – A blend of dried herbs that brings out the natural flavors of the pork.

Substitutions and Alternatives

• For a sweeter glaze: Swap honey for maple syrup.
• For a richer flavor: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
• To make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Want extra heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork

Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and season all over with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

2. Sear the Pork

Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add olive oil and sear the pork on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

3. Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This prevents the “Burn” warning.

4. Pressure Cook

Place the pork back into the Instant Pot. In a small bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, honey, soy sauce, and garlic, then pour over the pork. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

5. Make the Sauce

Remove the pork and set it on a cutting board to rest. Turn the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken. If needed, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in to help thicken the sauce.

6. Slice and Serve

Slice the pork into medallions and drizzle with the honey balsamic sauce. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Don’t overcook: Pork tenderloin is best at 145°F. Use a meat thermometer for precision.
• Let it rest: Allow the pork to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to retain juiciness.
• Sear for extra flavor: The golden crust from searing adds depth to the final dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or a simple green salad.
• For a low-carb option, try serving it with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Best Reheating Methods

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, covered, to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pork loin instead of pork tenderloin?

Pork loin is larger and requires longer cooking time. If using, increase the pressure cooking time to 15-18 minutes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the pork and sauce separately, then reheat gently before serving.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can cook this in a slow cooker on low for 6 hours or bake it in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin with Honey Balsamic Sauce is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors—all in under 30 minutes! Whether for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try and let me know how you customize it in the comments!

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