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Dump-and-Go Sweet Maple Dijon Pork - Easy, Flavorful, and Family-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Pork tenderloin (1.5–2 pounds) or boneless pork loin
  • Pure maple syrup (1/3 cup)
  • Dijon mustard (3 tablespoons)
  • Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon)
  • Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (1 tablespoon)
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced) or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon) for a subtle smoky note
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil (1 tablespoon) to help the glaze cling
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes, fresh thyme or rosemary, orange zest

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a small roasting pan or baking dish with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
  2. Make the glaze. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust. It should be sweet-tangy with a little savory depth.
  3. Prep the pork. Pat the pork dry with paper towels. This helps the glaze stick and encourages light caramelization. Place it in the prepared pan.
  4. Dump and coat. Pour the glaze over the pork, turning it to coat. Spoon some sauce onto the top so it’s well covered.
  5. Roast. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes for pork tenderloin, or until the thickest part reaches 140–145°F (60–63°C) on an instant-read thermometer. If using a larger loin roast, plan 20 minutes per pound and start checking early.
  6. Baste halfway. About 10 minutes into cooking, spoon the pan sauce over the pork. This builds a glazed, shiny finish.
  7. Rest the meat. Transfer the pork to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This keeps the juices in the meat instead of running onto the board.
  8. Reduce the sauce (optional but great). Pour the remaining pan juices into a small skillet. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. You can add a teaspoon of butter for a silky finish.
  9. Slice and serve. Cut the pork into 1/2-inch slices and spoon the warm glaze over the top. Pair with roasted carrots, green beans, mashed potatoes, or rice.