Cranberry Rosemary Pork Tenderloin is a lovely dish that brings together the fresh, tart flavors of cranberries with the piney aroma of rosemary. The tender pork is juicy and flavorful, making it a perfect centerpiece for a cozy dinner. The combination is simple but feels special, especially when the cranberries create a slightly sweet, tangy sauce that coats the meat just right.
I like to cook this when I want something a bit different but still easy to prepare. The rosemary adds a wonderful depth, and the cranberries give it that burst of brightness that surprises everyone at the table. One tip I always follow is to let the tenderloin rest a bit after cooking so the juices settle and the meat stays moist — it really makes a difference!
Serving this with some roasted veggies or a creamy mashed potato on the side turns it into a comforting meal that warms you up. I especially enjoy sharing this during the holidays or chilly weekends because it feels festive without being complicated. It’s a dish that gets people talking and asking for seconds, and honestly, that’s when I know I’ve done it right.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Pork Tenderloin
- This cut is tender and cooks quickly, making it perfect here. If you can't find tenderloin, pork loin chops can work but might take longer to cook.
- Cranberries
- Fresh cranberries add tartness and texture. Frozen work great too—just thaw them before cooking. If cranberries aren’t available, try pomegranate seeds or a mix of tart cherries.
- Rosemary
- Fresh rosemary gives a fragrant, earthy note. Dried rosemary can be used, but use less as it’s more concentrated. Thyme is a nice optional herb that complements the flavors.
- Balsamic Vinegar
- This adds a slight tang and depth to the sauce. If you don’t have balsamic, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar make good substitutes.
- Orange Juice or Water
- Orange juice adds a subtle citrus sweetness to balance the tart cranberries, but plain water works fine too for a less sweet sauce.
How Do I Get the Pork Tender and Juicy Without Overcooking?
Cooking pork tenderloin just right is the key to juicy meat. Follow these tips:
- Season generously: Salt and pepper enhance the flavor and help create a nice crust.
- Sear first: Brown the pork in a hot pan to lock in juices and build flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer: Roast the pork until it hits 145°F (63°C) inside. This is safe and keeps the meat moist.
- Rest before slicing: Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes after roasting to let juices settle, keeping every bite tender.
These simple steps make a big difference in texture and taste, giving you tender pork every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet – perfect for searing the pork and finishing it in the oven without extra dishes.
- Meat thermometer – helps you cook the pork to the perfect temperature for juiciness.
- Small saucepan – ideal for making the cranberry rosemary sauce smoothly and evenly.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for slicing the rested tenderloin cleanly and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pork tenderloin for chicken breasts for a lighter, quicker version that still pairs well with the sauce.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cranberry sauce for a cozy, warm spice note.
- Include chopped pecans or walnuts in the sauce for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Use fresh sage instead of rosemary for a slightly earthier, woodsy flavor twist.
How to Make Cranberry Rosemary Pork Tenderloin?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Tenderloin:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Cranberry Rosemary Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water or orange juice
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and searing, plus 15-20 minutes roasting time. Add 5-10 minutes resting time before slicing and serving. In total, expect around 30-40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Season:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season your pork tenderloin generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides, giving it nice flavor.
2. Sear the Pork:
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork tenderloin. Sear it well on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, until it has a beautiful brown crust.
3. Make the Cranberry Sauce:
While the pork sears, take a small saucepan and mix cranberries, brown sugar, water (or orange juice), balsamic vinegar, chopped rosemary, thyme if using, and minced garlic. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly — this takes about 8-10 minutes. Taste it and add more sugar if you like it sweeter.
4. Roast and Glaze:
Once the pork is nicely seared, spoon half of the cranberry sauce over it. Then, carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast the pork for 15-20 minutes, or until the center reaches 145°F (63°C) for juicy, safe-to-eat pork.
5. Rest, Slice, and Serve:
Remove the pork from the oven and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes—this helps keep the meat juicy. Slice the pork into rounds and serve it topped with the remaining cranberry sauce. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if you like. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries?
Yes! Frozen cranberries work great in this recipe. Just thaw them slightly before cooking to help them soften and release their juices for the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Tenderloin?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the pork juicy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat the sauce and pork when ready to serve for a quick and delicious meal.
What Is the Best Side Dish to Serve With This?
This pork tenderloin pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a fresh green salad to balance the bright flavors of the cranberry sauce.