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Easy Juicy Sheet Pan Pork Tenderloin Recipe with Roasted Garlic

sheet pan pork tenderloin - featured image

This easy juicy sheet pan pork tenderloin recipe is tender, bursting with flavor, and perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Roasting whole garlic cloves alongside the pork creates a sweet, buttery spread that complements the savory meat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
  • 1 whole bulb garlic, separated into cloves but unpeeled
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (optional)
  • Salt to taste (kosher salt recommended)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (60 ml)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Separate the garlic bulb into individual cloves but leave the skins on. Toss them in a small bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt.
  3. Trim the pork tenderloin by removing any silver skin or excess fat. Pat dry with paper towels.
  4. Rub the pork all over with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and chopped rosemary and thyme. Coat evenly.
  5. Place the pork tenderloin in the center of a rimmed sheet pan. Scatter the oiled garlic cloves around it.
  6. Pour the chicken broth or water into the pan to add moisture during roasting.
  7. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, gently shake the pan or use tongs to turn the garlic cloves for even caramelization.
  8. Check doneness with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the pork; it should read 145°F (63°C). If no thermometer, cut into the pork to check for a light pink center.
  9. Transfer the pork to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute juices.
  10. Slice the pork into medallions. Spread softened roasted garlic over the top or serve alongside. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving.

Notes

Do not skip resting the pork after roasting to keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer for best results. If garlic browns too fast, cover loosely with foil. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even roasting. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and paleo-friendly. You can add vegetables like carrots or baby potatoes to the pan for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork tenderloin, sheet pan recipe, roasted garlic, easy dinner, weeknight meal, juicy pork, quick pork recipe, gluten-free, paleo