Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin Ready in 40 Minutes

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

There s something remarkable about the contrast between sweet and savory flavors, especially when it comes to cooking. When I first tried Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin, it was like a culinary revelation. The moment I drizzled that luxurious cherry glaze over the tender pork, I knew I was on to something special. This dish, with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, can elevate an everyday dinner into an elegant feast, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

Imagine the delight of your guests as they take their first bite; the rich, juicy pork paired with the tangy-sweet glaze is nothing short of gourmet, yet it comes together in just under 40 minutes! With a minimal list of ingredients and simple steps, you don t need to be a seasoned chef to impress. Whether you re looking to break free from fast food or simply seeking a delicious, homemade meal, this recipe has got you covered. Let s dive in and bring some effortless elegance to your dining table!

Why is Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin amazing?

Simplicity: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal culinary skill, making it accessible for anyone in the kitchen.

Flavor Fusion: Experience the delightful marriage of sweet and tangy from the cherry balsamic glaze, perfectly complementing the juicy pork.

Time-Saving: Ready in under 40 minutes, this dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.

Gourmet Appeal: It s impressive enough to serve at special occasions, yet simple enough for casual dining.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment by swapping in different fruits or proteins, making it adaptable to your family s preferences.

Elevate your dinner routine with this delicious recipe and discover how easy it is to impress your guests with a gourmet meal!

Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin Ingredients

For the Pork

• Pork Tenderloin This lean cut ensures tenderness and mild flavor; fresh is best, but frozen works too.
• Olive Oil Adds richness and aids in searing; can be substituted with vegetable or canola oil if needed.
• Salt Essential for enhancing the flavor of the pork.
• Black Pepper Provides essential seasoning with a hint of heat.

For the Glaze

• Garlic Powder Adds depth and savory notes; for a fresher taste, use minced garlic instead.
• Smoked Paprika Introduces a lovely smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used as a substitute.
• Fresh or Frozen Cherries A key ingredient for the glaze, contributing tartness; dried cherries can work too if soaked first.
• Balsamic Vinegar Deepens flavor and thickness of the glaze; substitute with red wine vinegar and honey if needed.
• Honey or Maple Syrup Balances the tanginess of the glaze; swap with maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Dijon Mustard Adds complexity and richness to the glaze.
• Shallot Provides a mild onion flavor; can replace with a small amount of onion.
• Garlic Clove Fresh garlic gives robust flavor; minced garlic can replace garlic powder.
• Butter Enhances the glaze s richness; can be omitted for dairy-free versions.

For Garnish

• Fresh Thyme or Rosemary Adds freshness and appeals visually, elevating your Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin.

How to Make Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin

1. Preheat & Prepare the Pork:
   Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Take the pork tenderloin, pat it dry, and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to enhance its flavor.

2. Sear the Pork:
   In a cast-iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork for 2-3 minutes on each side until it s beautifully golden brown. Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Make the Cherry Balsamic Glaze:
   In the same skillet, sauté chopped shallots and minced garlic until fragrant. Toss in the fresh or frozen cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper; allow it to simmer until the glaze thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Roast the Pork with Glaze:
   Return the pork to the skillet, spoon the luscious glaze over it, and roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 140-145 °F (60-63 °C). Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

5. Serve & Garnish:
   Slice the pork into medallions, drizzling them with any leftover glaze from the skillet. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary and a few extra cherries for an eye-catching presentation.

Optional: Serve alongside creamy polenta or a fresh salad for a delightful meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can season the pork tenderloin and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those savory spices to soak in for extra deliciousness. Additionally, you can prepare the cherry balsamic glaze ahead of time simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, just heat the glaze gently before roasting the pork, which should be cooked to an internal temperature of 140-145 °F. With these steps, you ll have a gourmet meal ready with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin?

Picture a warm, inviting table laden with delicious sides that complement the sweet tang of your main dish this meal is about to shine brighter!

• Creamy Polenta: Its smooth texture and subtle flavors create a dreamy backdrop for the rich pork glaze.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy and buttery, they offer a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the bold cherry balsamic flavors.

• Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery freshness cuts through the richness of the pork, adding a refreshing crunch and a pop of color.

• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Earthy veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts bring warmth and heartiness to the plate, enhancing the overall extravagance.

• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty and fluffy dish introduces lightness, along with a delightful texture that contrasts with the tender pork.

• Savory Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked to a crisp, the natural sweetness of the potatoes perfectly complements the tangy glaze, creating a winning combo.

• Sparkling Wine or Light Red: A glass of bubbly or a fruity Pinot Noir elevates the meal, making every bite feel like a celebration.

With these delightful options, your Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin will steal the show, while the sides create a harmonious, well-rounded dining experience.

Expert Tips for Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure perfectly cooked pork by checking the internal temperature. Aim for 140-145 °F (60-63 °C) for juicy results.

• Sauté for Flavor: When making the glaze, take your time to sauté shallots and garlic until fragrant; this depth enhances the overall flavor of the Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin.

• Adjust Sweetness Wisely: If the glaze turns out too tangy, add a bit more honey or maple syrup gradually. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.

• Rest Your Pork: Allow the seared pork to rest before slicing. This step helps retain juicy tenderness, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

• Thicken the Glaze: Need a thicker consistency? Simply let it simmer longer or whisk in a little chilled butter off the heat for a glossy finish.

Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish and explore different flavors and textures!

• Chicken Swap: Use chicken breast or turkey tenderloins instead for a lighter meal that still shines with that delicious glaze.

• Fruit Variety: Switch up the fruit in your glaze by using apricots or figs for a unique twist that introduces new flavor profiles. Each fruit brings something special to the table!

• Maple Sweetness: Substitute maple syrup for honey to make this dish completely vegan while maintaining that sweet balance with the tangy glaze. The syrup adds a deeper flavor that will enchant your palate.

• Herb Infusion: Enhance the dish by adding fresh herbs like basil or mint to the glaze for a refreshing lift. These herbs will elevate the dish beyond the ordinary.

• Spice It Up: For a little kick, toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze. This spice will add warmth, creating a beautiful contrast with the sweetness of the cherries.

• Nutty Crust: Coat the pork with crushed nuts (like almonds or pecans) after searing for added crunch and depth of flavor. This delightful twist adds unexpected texture and richness.

• Citrus Zest: Incorporate zest from an orange or lemon into the glaze for a bright, zesty kick that enhances the overall flavor profile. Citrus adds a lively note that complements the cherries beautifully.

• Smoky Flavor: Enhance your glaze with a dash of liquid smoke or smoked salt for an extra layer of complexity and depth. The smokiness will take your dish to gourmet heights!

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin

Fridge: Store leftover pork and glaze in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it down to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to maintain its juiciness.

Freezer: This Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap the pork tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, defrost the pork in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to help retain moisture and flavor.

Keep the Glaze: Any leftover glaze can also be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Reheat it separately before drizzling over your warmed pork.

Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pork tenderloin for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing a pork tenderloin, look for one that is pink in color with minimal marbling. Avoid any that have dark spots or discoloration. Fresh is preferable, but if frozen is your only option, ensure it s properly thawed before cooking.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! You can store leftover Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to keep it juicy.

Can I freeze Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin?
Yes, you totally can! To freeze, wrap the pork tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. This will prevent freezer burn and keep it fresh for up to 3 months. For best results, allow it to defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my glaze isn t thickening?
No worries! If your glaze isn t thickening as you expected, continue to simmer it over medium heat. If it remains thin, you can whisk in a little cold butter just off the heat, which will give it a beautiful shine and help thicken it. Alternatively, let it simmer longer, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This Cherry Balsamic Glazed Pork Tenderloin can be made gluten-free by ensuring that all packaged ingredients, like the Dijon mustard and balsamic vinegar, are gluten-free. For a dairy-free option, simply omit the butter or use dairy-free alternatives.

Can I use a different type of meat or fruit in this recipe?
Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can substitute the pork tenderloin with chicken breast or turkey tenderloins for a lighter option. Additionally, feel free to experiment with various fruits like figs or apricots in the glaze for a unique twist!