Garlic Herb Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin (Juicy & Easy Weeknight Dinner)

 

Juicy Garlic Herb Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin made with a simple butter, Dijon, and paprika rub. An easy weeknight dinner ready in about 20 minutes with incredible flavor.

Garlic Herb Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin (Juicy & Easy Weeknight Dinner)

I’m still discovering new things to make in my air fryer, and wondered how a pork tenderloin would turn out.  Upon doing some research I found that others loved the results.  So I decided to create a recipe using my Williams Sonoma Garlic Herb mix in a wet rub for the tenderloin and ended up with the BEST Garlic Herb Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin.  It's definitely going in to my rotation.

I’ve cooked pork tenderloin a lot of different ways over the years—roasted in the oven, grilled outside in the summer, even sliced into medallions for quick skillet dinners. But making it in the air fryer might be one of the easiest and most reliable methods I’ve found.

The pork cooks quickly, the outside develops a beautiful seasoned crust, and the inside stays tender and juicy. A simple garlic herb butter rub with Dijon and a touch of paprika gives the pork rich flavor without overpowering it.  I served it with roasted zucchini but any potato/rice or vegetable side dish will work beautifully.

It’s the kind of recipe that feels just a little special, but it’s simple enough to make on a busy weeknight. And once you see how easy it is, you might find yourself reaching for pork tenderloin at the grocery store a little more often too.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

This recipe keeps things simple while building layers of flavor with a quick wet rub.

Pork Tenderloin -  A lean, tender cut of pork that cooks quickly and stays juicy when rested properly.

Butter -  Adds richness and helps the seasoning adhere to the pork.

Olive Oil -  Keeps the rub smooth and helps the exterior brown nicely in the air fryer.

Garlic Herb Seasoning -  I used Williams Sonoma's blend here.  This is the best blend I've seen and the blend is vibrant green.  The ingredients are all fresh.  Here they are: Dehydrated garlic, salt, black pepper, rosemary, parsley, marjoram, basil, oregano, thyme, green onion.

Dijon Mustard -  Adds a subtle tang and depth that balances the butter and herbs.

Paprika -  Provides a gentle smoky warmth and beautiful color.

Black Pepper -  Rounds out the seasoning with a little bite.

(Exact measurements are in the recipe card below.)

-- Let’s Make It Together

This recipe comes together quickly, and the air fryer makes it almost effortless.

Start by preheating the air fryer to 400°F while you prepare the pork. Trim any silver skin if needed and pat the tenderloin dry so the seasoning sticks well.

In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, olive oil, garlic herb seasoning, Dijon mustard, paprika, and black pepper until smooth.

Rub the mixture over the entire pork tenderloin so it’s evenly coated. If you have time, let it sit for 10–20 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Place the pork in the air fryer and cook at 400°F for 16–20 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.

Remove the pork when it reaches 140–143°F, then let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This keeps the meat tender and juicy.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The single most important step in this recipe is letting the pork rest after cooking. Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat, and resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat instead of running out when you slice it. Even five minutes makes a noticeable difference, turning a good pork tenderloin into one that’s perfectly juicy and tender.

-- Add Your Touch

Once you make this recipe once, it’s easy to adjust it to your own taste.

You could add a little lemon zest to the rub for a brighter flavor, or stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Fresh herbs work beautifully here as well. A sprinkle of chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary over the sliced pork adds freshness and color.

And if you enjoy a richer finish, brush the pork lightly with a little melted butter just before serving.

Set the Mood

If you'd like to create a whole atmosphere while enjoying this great meal see my tips below to set a wonderful mood!

If you’re looking for more easy dinners that feel just a little special, here are a few favorites from my kitchen:

• Garlic Herb Chicken Bowl - using the same Garlic Herb Blend
• Zesty Lemon Butter Pork Chops
• Creamy Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera
• Garlic-Lemon Pork Medallions with Farro and Kale

These are the kinds of recipes that make weeknight cooking feel simple, flavorful, and something to look forward to.

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Before You Start

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes. Preheating helps the pork start cooking immediately and gives the outside better color.

What temperature should pork tenderloin be cooked to?
Remove the pork from the air fryer at 140–143°F. After resting, it will rise to the recommended 145°F.

Can I make this in advance?
You can mix the rub ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The pork is best cooked fresh.

How should leftovers be stored?
Store sliced pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What’s the best way to reheat it?
Warm slices gently in a skillet with a small splash of broth or water to keep the pork from drying out.

 

 

 

Almond Poppyseed Muffins with Cranberry Cherry Swirl (Small Batch Recipe)

 

Tender almond poppyseed muffins with a cranberry cherry swirl and sparkling almond sugar topping. This small-batch recipe is perfect for slow mornings and cozy baking moments.

Almond Poppyseed Muffins with Cranberry Cherry Swirl (Small Batch Recipe)

Some of my favorite baking happens early on Sunday mornings.  I go in the kitchen before the house is buzzing and think about what I'd like to create for breakfast.  

That’s exactly how these muffins started.

I knew I wanted an almond poppyseed base—soft, lightly sweet, and just really comforting. But I also wanted something tucked inside. Something that would add a little brightness and make them feel special, not just “everyday muffins.”

So I started looking through my jam stash (because yes, I definitely have a jam stash).

And that’s when I spotted a jar of Bonne Maman Cranberry Cherry Reserve that I’d picked up recently.  Almond and cherry are such a good match. And the cranberry adds just enough tartness to balance everything out. As soon as I saw it, I knew this would be the perfect swirl in my muffins.

30 Minutes later… I had these warm, bakery-style muffins coming out of my oven.  They’re tender, lightly almond-scented, and full of little pockets of sweet-tart fruit in every bite.  Let's just say that I have a new favorite muffin.  

Read on and I'll show you how to make them.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for these almond poppyseed muffins:

For the Muffins

• Egg
• Milk
• Canola oil
• Sour cream
• Vanilla extract
• Almond extract
• All-purpose flour
• Sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Poppyseeds

For the Cranberry Cherry Swirl

• Cranberry cherry jam (I used Bonne Manan's jam, if unavailable try Cherry or Raspberry jam)
• Warm water

For the Sparkling Almond Topping

• Sparkling sugar
• Sliced or slivered almonds

(Find exact measurements in the recipe card below.)

-- Let’s Make It Together

Making these muffins is easier than it looks—trust me.

1. Mix the wet: Whisk egg, milk, oil, sour cream, vanilla, and almond extract until smooth.

2. Add the dry: Stir in flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and poppyseeds until just combined. Batter should be thick and a little lumpy.

3. Add the swirl: Loosen your jam with a tiny splash of water. Spoon batter halfway into muffin cups, add jam, then top with remaining batter. Lightly swirl.

4. Top it off: Sprinkle sparkling sugar and almonds on top—press lightly so they stick.

5. Bake & enjoy: Bake until golden and set, then cool briefly before serving.

Done. Soft, tender, and bakery-style muffins without any fuss.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to tender muffins is gentle mixing.

Once the dry ingredients go in, stir just until combined. A few lumps are good. Overmixing develops gluten and makes muffins dense instead of soft. Think: light hand, slow stir, stop early.

-- Add Your Touch

These muffins are easy to customize.

You could try raspberry or apricot jam instead.  Or instead of jam add orange zest in the batter.  Other ideas may be to add a touch of cinnamon in the swirl.

If you experiment, let me know—I love hearing what you try.

Set the Mood

If you'd like to create a whole atmosphere while eating these muffins see my tips below.

These almond poppyseed muffins are exactly the kind of recipe I come back to again and again—simple, flexible, and quietly special.

If you loved this one, you might also enjoy:

• Orange Chocolate Chip Muffins

• Herbed Quiche with Gruyere & Asparagus

• Spiced Ginger-Pear Scones

And if you make these, I’d love to hear about it. Leave a comment or tag me—I truly enjoy seeing your kitchens in action.

Before You Start

Can I double this recipe?
Yes. Simply double all ingredients and bake in a 12-cup muffin pan.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely. Full-fat Greek yogurt works well.

How should I store these?
Store loosely covered at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate up to 4 days.

Can I freeze them?
Yes. Freeze cooled muffins in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Why loosen the jam?
It helps it swirl more easily and prevents sinking.

 

 

 

Only Have Ground Turkey? Make This Flavor-Packed Stir Fry

 

Only have ground turkey and no dinner plan? This flavor-packed ground turkey stir fry turns simple fridge staples into a fast, healthy, and satisfying weeknight meal everyone will love.

Only Have Ground Turkey? Make This Flavor-Packed Stir Fry

Some nights, dinner starts with standing in front of the fridge, staring at what’s inside, and hoping inspiration strikes. You’ve got ground turkey… and not much else that sounds exciting. You could make burgers. You could make tacos. But sometimes, you just want something different.

That’s exactly how this flavor-packed ground turkey stir fry came to be. It’s my go-to “use what I have” dinner that turns a basic protein into something colorful, cozy, and completely crave-worthy. With a quick homemade sauce, fresh veggies, and a handful of my Asian pantry staples, this meal comes together fast — and give you much more variety than another turkey burger.  

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with ground turkey that isn’t boring, this easy stir fry might just become your new weeknight favorite.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

This stir fry is built around easy, flexible ingredients you probably already have — with a sauce that brings everything together in the best way.

For the Stir Fry Sauce

• Chicken Broth – Creates a savory base without being heavy

• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds depth and umami flavor

• Maple Syrup – Balances the salty sauce with gentle sweetness

• Rice Vinegar – Brightens everything up

• Chili Paste (Sambal Oelek) – Adds gentle heat (adjust to taste)

• Toasted Sesame Oil – Gives that classic stir fry aroma

• Fresh Ginger – Adds warmth and freshness

• Garlic Powder – Boosts savory flavor

• Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce so it coats every bite

For the Stir Fry

• Ground Turkey – Lean, versatile, and perfect for quick dinners

• Mini Sweet Peppers – Add color and natural sweetness

• Zucchini – Light, tender, and great for soaking up sauce

• Green Onions – Adds fresh onion flavor without overpowering

• Edamame – Boosts protein and texture

• Cashews – Adds crunch and richness

• Canola Oil – For high-heat cooking

• Salt & Pepper – Simple seasoning goes a long way

• Sesame Seeds – For garnish

• Hot Rice – The perfect base for soaking up the sauce

-- Let’s Make It Together

This stir fry comes together quickly once you start, so it helps to have everything ready.

Step 1: Make the Sauce -  In a bowl or measuring cup, whisk together all of the sauce ingredients until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey -  Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.  Add the ground turkey, season with salt and pepper, and cook while crumbling until fully cooked.  Transfer to a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables -  Add the remaining oil to the skillet.  Add peppers, zucchini, and the white parts of the green onions.  Cook until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.  Stir in the cashews and toast briefly.

Step 4: Bring It All Together - Return turkey to the skillet.  Add edamame and pour in the sauce.  Stir until everything is coated and the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Finish and Serve - Remove from heat.  Garnish with sesame seeds and green onion tops.  Serve hot over rice.

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to great texture in this stir fry is cooking each component separately first. Browning the turkey before adding vegetables keeps it juicy instead of steamed, while letting the sauce thicken at the end ensures every bite is glossy, flavorful, and well-balanced.

-- Add Your Touch

This recipe is very forgiving — feel free to make it your own.

Try adding:

• Broccoli or snap peas
• Mushrooms
• Water chestnuts
• Bell peppers
• A squeeze of lime at the end

You can also swap rice for quinoa, cauliflower rice, or noodles.

Set the Mood

If you'd like to create a whole atmosphere to enjoy this dish I've put together some tips to help you set the mood for this wonderful stir fry.  

If ground turkey is a regular in your fridge, this stir fry is one recipe you’ll want in your back pocket. It’s fast, flexible, and endlessly satisfying — perfect for busy nights when you still want something homemade.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love:

• Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad

• Bacon Ranch Chicken for Two

• Mini Sheet Pan Chicken Tostadas

Before You Start 

• Can I make this ahead? Yes, it reheats well for up to 3 days.

• Is it spicy? This is mild as written — you can adjust chili paste to taste.

• Can I freeze it? The sauce freezes well, but veggies will soften after thawing.

• What pan works best? A wide skillet or wok will give you the best results.

• Can I use frozen veggies? Yes, just thaw and drain first.

• How do I keep it from getting watery? Cook veggies hot and fast and don’t overcrowd the pan.

 

 

 

Instant Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Mushroom Gravy

These Instant Pot pork chops with creamy mushroom gravy are tender, flavorful, and easy to make in one pot. A comforting dinner recipe with rich sauce and simple ingredients, perfect for busy nights.

 Instant Pot Pork Chops with Creamy Mushroom Gravy

There’s something about pork chops and homemade gravy that just feels like comfort on a plate.

It’s the kind of meal that reminds you of slow, cozy dinners — but let’s be honest, most nights we don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen anymore. That’s where the Instant Pot comes in.

With a quick sauté, a short pressure cook, and a simple creamy mushroom gravy made right in the same pot, these pork chops turn out incredibly tender and full of flavor every time. No dry meat, no complicated steps, and no stack of dishes waiting when you’re done.

This is one of those reliable recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again — especially on nights when you want real comfort food without a lot of effort.

If you love rich gravy, juicy pork chops, and easy one-pot dinners, this recipe is about to become a favorite.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, comforting ingredients that come together to create tender pork chops and a rich, creamy gravy.

• Bone-In Pork Chops - Thick-cut chops stay juicy and tender under pressure and add extra flavor to the sauce.

• Steak Seasoning - An easy way to layer in savory, peppery flavor without measuring multiple spices.

• Olive Oil - Helps create a golden crust when browning the pork chops.

• Unsalted Butter - Adds richness and forms the base of the creamy gravy.

• Garlic - Brings warmth and depth to the sauce.

• White Onion - Softens as it cooks and adds natural sweetness to the gravy.

• Fresh Mushrooms - Provide earthy flavor and hearty texture.

• Chicken Broth - Deglazes the pot and builds the foundation of the sauce.

• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper - Enhances all the flavors in the dish.

• Cornstarch - Thickens the gravy into a smooth, silky sauce.

• Heavy Whipping Cream - Creates the rich, creamy finish that makes this dish feel extra comforting.

-- Let’s Make It Together

First, turn your Instant Pot to sauté and add the olive oil. Season the pork chops with steak seasoning and brown them for a few minutes on each side. This step builds flavor, so don’t rush it. Set the pork chops aside once they’re golden.

Add the butter to the pot, followed by the mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper, then use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom. This is where so much flavor lives.

Return the pork chops to the pot, secure the lid, and pressure cook on high for 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before finishing with a quick release.

Transfer the pork chops to a serving dish.

Switch back to sauté mode. Whisk together the cornstarch with some hot broth, then stir it into the pot. Cook until thickened, then whisk in the cream. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Pour the gravy over the pork chops and serve warm.

 

-- Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to tender pork chops in the Instant Pot is browning first and allowing a short natural pressure release. Searing locks in flavor, while the natural release keeps the meat from tightening too quickly. Together, these steps ensure juicy pork and a rich, well-developed gravy.

-- Add Your Touch

This recipe is easy to customize based on what you love.

Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an herby twist. Stir in a splash of white wine before pressure cooking for extra depth. Swap mushrooms for bell peppers if you prefer. Or finish with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color.

Make it yours — this gravy welcomes creativity.

Set the Mood

See my tips below to create a wonderful atmosphere for enjoying your meal.

If you’re craving comfort food that fits into real life, these Instant Pot pork chops deliver every time. They’re rich, satisfying, and easy enough for busy nights.

If you loved this recipe, you may also enjoy:

• My Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup

• Garlic Herb Chicken Bowls

• Baked Ranch Chicken for Two

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

Before You Start

• Can I use bone-in pork chops? Yes, but increase the cook time slightly and watch closely to avoid drying.

• Do I have to use mushrooms? No. You can omit them or substitute peppers or extra onion.

• What if my gravy is too thin? Simmer longer on sauté or add a little more slurry.

• Can I make this ahead? Yes. Store in an airtight container up to 3 days and reheat gently.

• Can I freeze leftovers? The pork freezes well, but cream sauces may separate slightly when thawed.