Creamy Pork Tenderloin Recipe
To make creamy pork tenderloin, start with a 1.5-2 pound tenderloin. Trim silver skin, then cut into ¾ inch slices. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, and dredge in flour. In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter, then brown the pork slices. Once browned, deglaze the skillet with chicken broth. Add heavy cream and simmer to make a sauce. Return the pork to the skillet, adjust seasoning, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Serve the dish with mashed potatoes or vegetables, and there’s more to explore about enhancing flavors further.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
When you try this creamy pork tenderloin recipe, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a favorite among home cooks. This dish offers tender and juicy pork enveloped in a decadent cream sauce. The use of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and herbs adds depth to the flavor, making each bite satisfying.
You’ll appreciate its versatility; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s quick to prepare—ready in under an hour—with simple ingredients and easy steps. This recipe is also loved for its great for leftovers, ensuring you can enjoy the juicy pork tenderloin even on subsequent days.
Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, which means less cleanup for you. The leftovers even reheat well, maintaining flavor and texture. Overall, this recipe combines convenience and taste, making it a great addition to your meal rotation.
Recipe
Creamy Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Cooking a creamy pork tenderloin is a delightful way to impress your family or guests with a flavorful and comforting dish. The tenderloin, known for its mild flavor and tenderness, pairs beautifully with a rich cream sauce that’s easy to prepare. This recipe highlights the simplicity of cooking while allowing you to infuse various herbs and spices to elevate the dish. The result is a succulent pork tenderloin that’s enveloped in a luscious sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. To achieve the best results, it’s important to properly season the pork and take your time while cooking, guaranteeing that the meat retains its juiciness. The cream sauce adds a luxurious touch, making this dish perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special celebrations. Following the steps below to create an unforgettable meal that showcases the tender and flavorful pork tenderloin is made easier with simple ingredients that lead to delicious results.
Ingredients
- 1.5-2 pound pork tenderloin
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Smoked paprika
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
- Flour
- Garlic powder
- Dried oregano
- Dried sage
- Dried rosemary
Cooking Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by trimming any silver skin from the pork tenderloin. Cut the tenderloin into slices or medallions about ¾ inch thick. Place the slices between two pieces of plastic wrap or waxed paper and gently flatten them to even thickness.
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Season the pork slices generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Dredge each slice in flour, shaking off any excess flour to guarantee a light coating.
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In a large skillet, heat a mixture of olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the pork slices in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Brown each side for about 5 minutes until golden and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F. After browning, transfer the pork to a baking dish and cover to keep warm.
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In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed, and sauté garlic and any additional herbs of your choice until fragrant. Then, deglaze the skillet with chicken broth or white wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
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Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle bubble. Allow it to simmer until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Return the cooked pork to the skillet, guaranteeing it’s coated with the sauce, and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through.
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Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired. Serve the pork immediately, drizzled with the creamy sauce.
Extra Tips
For added flavor, consider marinating the pork tenderloin in a mixture of olive oil, herbs, and spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This will help enhance the taste and tenderness of the meat.
Additionally, you can serve the creamy pork tenderloin alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad to create a well-rounded meal. Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Cooking a creamy pork tenderloin isn’t just about following the steps; it’s also about appreciating the flavors and techniques that elevate the dish.
To start, brown the pork tenderloin medallions for a golden crust that enhances flavor. Deglaze the pan with broth or wine to capture those tasty bits. Simmer the sauce until it thickens, ensuring it coats the pork evenly. Don’t forget to season generously with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary.
For the best results, choose lean pork tenderloin and use heavy cream for richness. The main ingredient is extra lean, ensuring a tender and juicy outcome when cooked properly.
Pair your dish with sides like roasted vegetables or wilted spinach, and always check for doneness before serving. Enjoy the process and savor the results!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Pork Tenderloin?
Just like a chameleon adapts to its surroundings, you can absolutely use chicken instead of pork tenderloin. Adjust your cooking times to guarantee it’s juicy, and don’t forget to season well for flavor!
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Creamy Pork Tenderloin?
To complement creamy pork tenderloin, you can serve garlic mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or a fresh spinach salad. Each option enhances the dish’s richness while providing balance and variety to your meal.
How Do I Store Leftover Creamy Pork Tenderloin?
You might think leftovers won’t taste great later, but store your creamy pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, sealing it well to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can definitely make this recipe in advance. Season the pork and prepare the sauce up to a day ahead. Just refrigerate everything separately and combine them when you’re ready to cook.
What Cooking Methods Can I Use for Pork Tenderloin?
You can use various cooking methods for pork tenderloin, like oven baking, grilling, pan-searing, or a stovetop and oven combination. Each method enhances flavor while ensuring the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F.