Instant Pot pork tenderloin is seasoned with a delicious spice rub, cooked until tender and juicy, then served with an easy, smooth, rich gravy that’s made right in the Instant Pot.
Earlier this week I shared Instant Pot chicken fajitas, which make for a fun family dinner and are just 5 ingredients.
I’m back with another Instant Pot recipe today and this one that will have you licking your lips!
This Instant Pot pork tenderloin is tender, juicy, well seasoned and has the creamiest, dreamiest gravy that is so very simple to make!
This is total comfort food - but made quick and easy! That’s about all I can manage right about now…
I’ve used some of the gravy tricks from these easy skillet pork chops with gravy recipe that is SO good!
Since we have to include some liquids here to cook the pork and avoid a burn notice in the Instant Pot, I thought, why not make the most of it?
Bonus, this gravy is made right in the Instant Pot in just minutes, while the pork is resting. No extra pans or time needed.
And it gets so creamy, rich and smooth. You’ll want to eat it with a spoon!
We’ve also got a really yummy seasoning for pork chops that is a long-time favorite. I’ve just slightly adapted it for this pork tenderloin recipe.
Perfectly seasoned pork tenderloin with a deliciously smooth and creamy gravy over the top. What more could you want?!
Now, I’ve got some notes and tips coming up below on how to make this easy pork recipe. Just tryin’ to be helpful.
If you want to jump on down to the recipe, simply scroll right on through the rest of the text. The recipe card is near the bottom of the page, above the comments section.
Recipe Notes:
- Make sure your pork tenderloin is patted dry. Then season all sides really well. You’ll want to use all of the seasoning mixture.
- Press the seasonings into the pork with your fingers so it adheres well and doesn’t shake off during cooking.
- If you don’t have any fresh thyme, you could use dried thyme or substitute some Italian seasoning, basil or oregano. I’d add dried herbs before you seal the pot instead of after the cook time so the flavors soften a bit.
- I use non-fat Greek yogurt for the creamy element in this gravy, but sour cream works too.
Disclaimer: Instant Pot recipes often fail to mention the time it takes for the pot to come to pressure or to release it.
I have found it very misleading when trying to plan, so I wanted to be sure to include it here.
I’ve listed “additional time” as 25 minutes to account for the amount of time it will take for the pot to come to pressure and then the time for the natural release and resting of the pork. The exact amount of time can vary, but that’s at least a rough estimate.
In case you’re in the market for one, I have and love this 6-quart Instant Pot.
Tips on cooking pork:
* Be sure not to overcook your pork! You want juicy and tender, not tough and rubbery.
* Pork should be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 145. Then let it rest for about 5 minutes before cutting.
* It’s totally OK and safe for pork tenderloin to have a slightly pink center.
* I highly recommend using a meat thermometer to check the temperature of your pork. A thermometer can really help ensure you don’t go too far and overcook the pork.
But also, having a yummy gravy like this to drench every bite can cover up any accidental overcooking. Gotta love a forgiving recipe!
Finally, let’s bring this dinner home so we can eat.
What to serve with pork and gravy:
- Mashed potatoes are definitely a good call, since you can drizzle some of that delicious gravy over it as well. It’s what I have in these photos.
- You could also do some easy microwave baked potatoes or roasted potatoes if you prefer.
- Or go with some creamy polenta or just some fluffy steamed rice.
- Don’t forget the veggies! Steamed broccoli or asparagus, green beans or a roasted veggie mix would all be good choices.
Ta da! You have a beautiful and delicious dinner on the table in no time at all! Totally winning at life!
I hope you try this Instant Pot pork tenderloin with gravy soon. I think you’ll be impressed.
Enjoy!
XO,
Kathryn
P.S. You may also want to check out my balsamic pork tenderloin with thyme. Just 3 ingredients but so flavorful!
Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil or canola oil
- 1 (1 to 1.25 lb.) pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut in half
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons nonfat plain Greek yogurt
- ½ teaspoon fresh thyme
Instructions
- Pat the pork tenderloin halves dry with a paper towel and let sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes, if possible.
- Combine the kosher salt, pepper, brown sugar, paprika, oregano, garlic powder and onion powder in a small bowl and mix well.
- Season pork on all sides with the seasoning mix. It can help to press the seasoning into the meat to get it to adhere better so it doesn't fall off during cooking.
- Heat the oil in the Instant Pot insert, set to the Sauté function.
- Add the pork and sear on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the pork and set aside. Turn off the Instant Pot.
- Add the broth and mustard to the Instant Pot insert and scrape up any bits off the bottom. Stir until smooth.
- Return the pork to the Instant Pot, cover and set to cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
- Once the cook time is complete, let it do a natural release for 15 minutes. Then do a quick release.
- Once the valve has fallen and it’s safe to open, open the lid and remove the pork to a plate to rest for at least 5 minutes.
- Return the Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Place cornstarch in a small bowl and add 2 tablespoons of the cooking liquid from the Instant Pot. Mix well together in the bowl and then add to the Instant Pot, whisking it in while the liquid bubbles and simmers for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until slightly thickened.
- Turn off the Instant Pot and whisk in the Greek yogurt and thyme. Remove the insert from the heat so the mixture doesn’t boil or curdle.
- Slice the pork tenderloin and serve drizzled with gravy. Enjoy!
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