June 22, 2026 · 10 min

Smoky Cinnamon Pork Tenderloin with Cherry Sauce, Mashed Potatoes and Apple Carrot Slaw

Side Dish10 min813 cal / serving

If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal, this pork tenderloin recipe delivers. The meat is seasoned with a warm blend of cinnamon and smoked paprika, then roasted to perfection and finished with a sweet cherry jam sauce. It’s a wonderful combination of savory and sweet that will please the whole family.

On the side, you’ll find creamy mashed potatoes and a crisp apple and carrot slaw. The slaw adds a refreshing crunch and tangy contrast, making every bite interesting. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.


Recipe details

Side Dish10 min813 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories813 kcalProtein42.4 gFat46.3 gCarbs53.8 gSugar16.6 gFiber5.5 gSodium1239 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: yesLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: not detectedMilk / dairy: containsEgg: containsFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Scallions2 unit ScallionsView ingredient guide
Mayonnaise2 tablespoon MayonnaiseView ingredient guide
Shredded Carrots4 ounce Shredded CarrotsView ingredient guide
Yukon Gold Potatoes12 ounce Yukon Gold PotatoesView ingredient guide
Pork Tenderloin12 ounce Pork TenderloinView ingredient guide
Apple1 unit AppleView ingredient guide
Cherry Jam4 tablespoon Cherry JamView ingredient guide
Sour Cream2 tablespoon Sour CreamView ingredient guide
Olive Oil2 teaspoon Olive OilView ingredient guide
Butter2 tablespoon ButterView ingredient guide
SaltSaltView ingredient guide
PepperPepperView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Adjust rack to middle position and preheat oven to 450°F. Wash and dry all produce. Trim and thinly slice scallions. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise with 4 teaspoons vinegar (you’ll use the rest later). Add shredded carrots and toss to coat. Set aside.
  2. Dice potatoes into ½-inch pieces; place in a large pot with enough salted water to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender, 15-20 minutes. Reserve ½ cup potato cooking liquid, then drain and return potatoes to pot. Keep covered off heat until ready to mash.
  3. Meanwhile, rub pork with a large drizzle of olive oil. Season generously all over with salt and pepper. Reserve ¼ teaspoon of the smoky cinnamon paprika spice in a small microwave-safe bowl for the next step; rub pork all over with remaining spice. Place pork on a baking sheet and roast on middle rack until cooked through, 18-20 minutes. Let rest 5 minutes after removing from oven.
  4. While pork roasts, quarter, core and thinly slice apple; add to bowl with carrots and toss to combine. Stir in half the scallions and season with salt and pepper. To the bowl with reserved spice, add cherry jam and remaining vinegar; stir to combine. Microwave until warm, 30-60 seconds. Stir in 1 tablespoon butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Mash drained potatoes until smooth; stir in sour cream, 1 tablespoon butter and remaining scallions. If needed, add reserved potato cooking liquid a splash at a time until potatoes are creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Slice pork crosswise. Divide pork, potatoes and slaw between plates. Drizzle sauce over pork and serve.

Recipe Tips

For the best flavor, let the pork rest for 5 minutes after roasting before slicing; this helps keep it juicy.

If the mashed potatoes are too thick, add a little reserved potato cooking liquid until they reach your desired consistency.

The apple carrot slaw can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 hours; toss again before serving.

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes, you can substitute pork loin or pork chops, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

What can I use instead of cherry jam?

Any fruit jam like raspberry, strawberry or apricot will work well. You can also use a fruit preserves or jelly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free sour cream and butter alternatives. The mashed potatoes may be slightly different in texture, but still delicious.

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