How Long To Cook Pork Tenderloin In Instant Pot
Pressure cooking pork tenderloin in an Instant Pot takes as little as 5 to 7 minutes under high pressure, plus natural release time. So if you are wondering how long to cook pork tenderloin in Instant Pot, the short answer is 5 to 7 minutes for a standard 1 to 1.5 pound tenderloin, followed by a 10 minute natural release. This guide breaks down exact times, sizes, and steps so your pork comes out juicy every time.
How Long To Cook Pork Tenderloin In Instant Pot
The cook time depends mostly on the weight of the tenderloin and whether you cut it in half. Here is the quick breakdown you can use right away.
- 1 pound tenderloin: 5 minutes on high pressure
- 1.5 pound tenderloin: 6 minutes on high pressure
- 2 pound tenderloin: 7 minutes on high pressure
- Two tenderloins (about 2.5 to 3 pounds total): 7 to 8 minutes on high pressure
After the pressure cooking finishes, let the pot sit for 10 minutes of natural release. Then turn the valve to vent any remaining steam. This rest period is part of the cooking, so dont skip it.
Why The Natural Release Matters
The natural release adds gentle carryover cooking. It keeps the meat tender and helps it reach a safe internal temperature without drying out. If you quick release right away, the pork can turn tough and lose moisture fast.
Internal Temperature For Safe Pork
The USDA recommends pork reaches 145°F. Pork tenderloin is lean, so a little pink in the center is normal and safe. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part before slicing.
Factors That Change Cooking Time
Not every tenderloin cooks the same. A few things shift the timing up or down.
Weight And Thickness
A thicker tenderloin needs more time than a thin one. If yours is over 2 pounds, add 1 to 2 extra minutes. If you cut it into two shorter pieces, they cook faster and more evenly.
Fresh Or Frozen
Frozen tenderloin takes longer. Add about 5 minutes to the base time and increase the natural release to 15 minutes. Always check the internal temp, since frozen meat cooks unevenly.
Liquid Amount
You need at least 1 cup of liquid for pressure to build. Broth, water, or a mix of both works. Do not use less, or the pot wont come to pressure properly.
Step By Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps for a tender, flavorful result every time.
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any herbs you like.
- Pour 1 cup of broth or water into the Instant Pot.
- Place the trivet inside the pot.
- Lay the tenderloin on the trivet. If it is long, cut it in half or curl it to fit.
- Lock the lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Select Manual or Pressure Cook on High for 5 to 7 minutes, based on weight.
- When the timer beeps, let it sit for 10 minutes of natural release.
- Turn the valve to venting to release any remaining steam.
- Open the lid, remove the pork, and rest it for 5 minutes before slicing.
Optional Sear For Better Texture
If you want a browned crust, sear the tenderloin in the Instant Pot on sauté mode first. Use a little oil and cook 2 minutes per side. Then remove it, add your liquid, and pressure cook as normal.
Making A Quick Sauce
After removing the pork, switch to sauté mode. Whisk in a cornstarch slurry with the leftover broth. Stir for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens. Spoon it over the sliced pork.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Small errors cause dry or tough pork. Watch out for these.
- Quick releasing instead of natural releasing
- Cooking without enough liquid
- Overcooking past 7 minutes for a small tenderloin
- Skipping the resting time after cooking
- Not checking internal temperature
If your pork comes out dry, you likely cooked it too long or released pressure too fast. Next time, cut 1 minute off the timer and keep the full natural release.
Serving And Storing Leftovers
Slice the tenderloin against the grain for the most tender bite. Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth so it stays moist. You can also use cold slices in sandwiches or salads.
Can You Cook Two Tenderloins At Once
Yes. Stack or arrange them so they are not tightly packed. Add 1 to 2 minutes to the cook time. They should still fit below the max fill line.
Best Seasonings For Pork Tenderloin
Simple blends work best in the Instant Pot. Try these combos.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper
- Italian herbs with a squeeze of lemon
- Brown sugar, cumin, and chili powder for a smoky flavor
- Rosemary, thyme, and Dijon mustard
Final Timing Recap
To sum it up, cook pork tenderloin in the Instant Pot for 5 to 7 minutes on high pressure, depending on weight. Then do a 10 minute natural release. Check for 145°F, rest 5 minutes, and slice against the grain. With these times, you get juicy pork with almost no effort and very little cleanup.
Pin this timing chart so you never guess again. Once you try it, this method becomes your go-to weeknight dinner for pork tenderloin.