Keto Pork Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter

If you’re craving something rich, savory, and satisfying without breaking your low-carb streak, this Keto Pork Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter is exactly what your dinner routine needs. This recipe delivers on every front—juicy, tender pork, a melt-in-your-mouth garlic herb butter, and minimal cleanup. It’s a weeknight winner and dinner party showstopper all in one!

This keto-friendly recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen with just a handful of ingredients and a single cast iron skillet. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned low-carb pro, this pork tenderloin is about to become your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Quick and Easy: Cooks in under 30 minutes from start to finish
• One Pan Wonder: Everything is made in a single skillet—hello, easy cleanup!
• Keto-Friendly: Low in carbs, high in protein, and packed with healthy fats
• Perfect for Entertaining: Elegant presentation, but surprisingly simple to make

Taste & Texture

Every bite of this pork tenderloin is a perfect blend of flavors. The outside has a beautiful golden sear, locking in all those natural juices. The interior is fork-tender and infused with garlic, butter, and a medley of herbs. Expect a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth bite every time.

Dietary Attributes

• Low-carb
• Gluten-free
• High-protein
• Refined sugar-free

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 1–1.5 lb pork tenderloin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Notes on Quality

For best results, use a high-quality pork tenderloin—preferably organic or pasture-raised. Fresh garlic is a must here; pre-minced just doesn’t deliver the same punch. If you have it, go for fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter, fresher flavor.

Possible Substitutions

• Butter: Swap for ghee if you’re dairy-sensitive but still tolerate butterfat.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs can replace dried—just triple the amount.
• Olive Oil: Avocado oil or even bacon fat are great keto alternatives.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sear the Pork: Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper. Sear on all sides for 2–3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
3. Make the Garlic Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika.
4. Top and Roast: Spoon the butter mixture over the pork. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 15–18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5. Rest: Remove from oven and let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve warm.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Pork is perfectly done at 145°F—don’t guess!
• Resting is Key: Allowing the pork to rest after cooking locks in those juices.
• Sear Thoroughly: Don’t rush the searing process; that crust adds flavor!

Common Mistakes

• Overcooking: Pork tenderloin dries out quickly. Use a thermometer for best results.
• Skipping the Rest Period: Cutting too soon lets all those precious juices escape.
• Crowding the Pan: Use a large skillet to allow even browning on all sides.

Time-Saving Tips

• Pre-Mix the Butter: You can make the garlic herb butter up to 3 days ahead.
• Use Pre-Cut Pork Medallions: This skips the slicing and speeds up cooking.
• Double Batch: Make two pork tenderloins and use leftovers in salads or wraps.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

This keto pork tenderloin goes wonderfully with:

• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Cauliflower mash
• Sautéed green beans with almonds
• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette

Looking for more low-carb dinner ideas? Check out our delicious Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry or the ultra-convenient Sheet Pan Gnocchi Dinner.

Presentation Ideas

• Slice the pork into ½-inch medallions and fan them out on a rustic wooden platter
• Drizzle with remaining garlic herb butter from the pan
• Top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a lemon wedge for a pop of color

Beverage Pairings

• Wine: A dry Chardonnay or Pinot Noir complements the garlic herb notes
• Cocktails: Try a cucumber gin fizz or whiskey sour
• Mocktails: A sparkling rosemary lemonade or cucumber-mint spritzer pairs beautifully

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months

Reheating Methods

• Oven: Reheat at 300°F until warmed through—about 10–12 minutes
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a covered skillet over low heat
• Microwave: Use a lower power setting to prevent drying out

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
You can, but it will need a longer cook time and may not be quite as tender.

What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
Any oven-safe skillet will do, or you can sear in a pan and transfer to a baking dish.

Is this recipe dairy-free?
Swap the butter for ghee or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.

Troubleshooting

Why is my pork dry?
It was likely overcooked. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Why didn’t I get a good sear?
Make sure your pan is hot enough and the meat is dry before searing.

My butter burned—what happened?
It may have been added too early or the pan was too hot. Add butter just before transferring to the oven.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter or ghee
• Whole30: Replace butter with compliant ghee and double-check your spices

Flavor Twists

• Add a splash of Dijon mustard to the garlic herb butter
• Include lemon zest for a citrusy punch
• Spice it up with chili flakes or cayenne

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• Add sage and a touch of cinnamon for a fall-inspired twist
• Serve with cranberry compote during the holidays
• Use fresh garden herbs in spring and summer for a lighter flavor

Conclusion

Whether you’re cooking for one or planning a keto-friendly feast for friends, this Keto Pork Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Butter will steal the show. It’s a simple recipe with a gourmet payoff, packed with flavor and nutrition. Once you try it, I promise it’ll land a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Have you tried this recipe? I’d love to see your creations and hear how it turned out—leave a comment below or tag us on Pinterest at CookingWithCallie.

And if you’re still hungry for more delicious ideas, don’t miss our cozy and creamy Chicken Marsala—a perfect dinner for two!

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