Juicy Pork Loin Steaks are pan-seared to perfection, then draped in a rich, slightly sweet cranberry tarragon sauce made with cherry-infused dried cranberries. This elegant dish is surprisingly simple to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The inspiration for this recipe comes from classic holiday flavors—and the fact that pork pairs well with sweet and savory flavor combinations. Fresh tarragon adds a delicate anise-like note that perfectly balances the sweet-tart cranberries, making every bite unforgettable!
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Why You'll Love Pork Loin Steaks
Perfectly balanced flavors – Savory pork pairs beautifully with the tart-sweet cranberry sauce.
Great for any occasion – Elegant enough for a dinner party, yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.
Versatile – Works with various side dishes, from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies.
Ingredients
How To Make Pork Steaks with Cranberry Tarragon Sauce
Step 1
Sear pork in hot cast iron skillet. Flip pork and place skillet in oven.
Step 2
Whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch, chicken broth, and balsamic vinegar over medium heat. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute until thickened. Add cranberries
Step 3
Whisk fresh tarragon into the sauce to finish. Serve over top of pork loin steaks.
I been loving my cast iron skillet (affiliate link) for stove-top and oven use. For these pork tenderloin steaks I did a pan sear, tossed in some garlic cloves and fresh tarragon, then placed them in the oven to finish off.
Substitutions
Fresh tarragon → Fresh thyme or rosemary – Different herbal notes but still delicious.
Pork loin steaks → Chicken breasts or boneless thighs – The sauce pairs wonderfully with poultry.
Cherry-infused dried cranberries → Regular dried cranberries + a splash of cherry juice – Keeps the depth of flavor.
Variations
Extra tangy – A spoonful of Dijon mustard adds a nice sharpness to the sauce.
Creamy version – Stir in a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a rich, velvety finish.
Spiced cranberry sauce – Add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice for a warm, holiday-inspired twist.
Wine-infused sauce – Replace some of the broth with a dry white wine for extra depth.
Top Tips for Perfect Pork Loin Steaks
Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep the juices in.
Pat the pork dry before seasoning to get a perfect sear.
Don’t overcook – Pork is best at 145°F for juicy results.
How to Store
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Over mashed potatoes or buttery rice to soak up the sauce.
With air fryer asparagus or green beans for a balanced meal.
Paired with a light salad for a fresh contrast.
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When you make these Pork Loin Steaks with Cranberry Tarragon Sauce, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating
📖 Recipe
Pork Loin Steaks with Cranberry Tarragon Sauce
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Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin steaks about (4 4 ounce steaks)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup Cherry Juice Infused Dried Cranberries
- 1 teaspoon fresh tarragon minced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Heat olive oil in cast iron skillet over medium high heat until hot.
- Add seasoned pork hot skillet and sear about 3-4 minutes, or until a nice brown crust has formed on the bottom of steaks.
- Flip steaks and place in oven for 15 minutes, or until pork reached internal temperature of 160 degrees F.
- While steaks are in the oven, prepare pan sauce.
- In a small saucepan over medium high heat, whisk together the brown sugar, cornstarch, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Add the vinegar, the dried cranberries, fresh tarragon and salt to taste.
- Simmer sauce for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve the sauce over pork.
Shelby Law Ruttan says
We just LOVE the sweet and savory flavors in the sauce that goes over perfectly cooked pork loin steaks! Pan searing then finishing off in the oven is the best cooking method for this cut and so delicious!
La Gringa Peliroja says
Killer Good recipe!! My husband loooved this. I cheated in some cranberry sauce and it was a winner. Thx
Melanie says
I do not eat pork a lot, but this looks like a yummy way to eat it!
Cami @ The Crafting Nook says
Oh my I LOVE LOVE cranberry sauce and this might be just the one for me! Yummm that dish looks so good!!!
XOXO
Jillian @ Food, Folks and Fun says
Yum, your pork loin recipe looks delicious!
Michelle @ The Complete Savorist says
That sauce!!!! I can just smell and taste it. I love it, and over the pork...perfection.
jamie says
I bey the craisins make that dish!
David @ Spiced says
Wow, what an awesome recipe! I'm a big fan of sauces, and this one sounds like a great addition to a perfectly cooked pork chop. Thanks for sharing, and happy (early) New Year! #client