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Flavorful Maple Bourbon BBQ Pork Tenderloin

maple bourbon bbq pork tenderloin - featured image

A quick and easy pork tenderloin recipe featuring a sticky maple bourbon glaze that balances sweet, smoky, and boozy flavors for a tender, juicy meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup (120 ml)
  • ¼ cup bourbon (60 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar (25 g)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (2.8 g)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (2.3 g)
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (1 g)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt (6 g)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl, then rub the spice blend evenly over the pork.
  3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. While searing, combine maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small saucepan. Simmer gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until the glaze thickens but remains pourable.
  5. Place the seared pork on a baking sheet or oven-safe pan. Brush generously with half the glaze. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, turning and brushing with more glaze every 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  6. Remove the pork from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and glaze to set.
  7. Slice the pork into medallions and drizzle with any remaining glaze before serving.

Notes

Watch the glaze closely while simmering to prevent burning; add a splash of water or bourbon if it thickens too much. Rest the pork before slicing to keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness at 145°F (63°C). The glaze can be made ahead and warmed gently before use.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple bourbon pork tenderloin, BBQ pork, sticky glaze, easy pork recipe, bourbon glaze, pork tenderloin recipe, quick dinner, gluten-free pork