Hello, Fellow Food Lovers!
Hey there! If you’re anything like me, you probably crave something delicious and comforting after a long day. That’s why I’m super excited to share this creamy pork tenderloin recipe with you. It’s not only easy to make, but it’s also rich and satisfying! Plus, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner that feels just a bit special. So, let’s dive into the deliciousness together!
Nutritional Benefits of Pork Tenderloin
Did you know that pork tenderloin is not just tasty but also packed with nutrition? It’s a lean source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Plus, it contains important vitamins like B6 and B12, which help in energy production and keeping your brain healthy. The mushrooms add an extra punch of nutrients too—think antioxidants and immune-boosting properties! So, you’re pretty much serving up a healthy meal even on a busy weekday!
Adaptable Variations
- Swap the Cream: If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative, like coconut cream, for a different twist.
- Herb Alternatives: No fresh herbs on hand? No problem! Use dried Italian herbs or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
- Veggie Swaps: Not a fan of asparagus? Try broccoli or green beans—they work just as great on the side and add a touch of color!
Creamy Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mushrooms (sliced, such as cremini or button)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup asparagus (trimmed, optional for side)
Serves 4 people
Standard portions → 4 servings
Slightly smaller portions → up to 5 servings
Instructions
- Start by patting the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels—you want it nice and dry for a good sear. Season it generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear it on all sides until beautifully browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.
- Now, let’s make those mushrooms shine! In the same skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 4-5 minutes until they turn golden and have released their moisture.
- Add the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until it’s nice and fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing right about now!
- Lower the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any yummy bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let it reduce by half, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Time to add some creaminess! Add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, chopped rosemary, and thyme to the skillet. Stir everything together until it’s all well combined.
- Return the seared pork tenderloin back to the skillet and spoon some of that creamy sauce over it. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the pork is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- If you want to add some veggies, you can steam or sauté the asparagus in a separate pan while the pork is cooking, which should take about 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Once the pork is cooked through, remove it from heat and stir in a tablespoon of butter—this will give that sauce an extra creamy texture!
- To serve, slice the pork tenderloin into beautiful medallions, arrange them on your plates, and drizzle that lush creamy mushroom sauce generously over the top. Add some asparagus to the side, and voila—dinner is ready!
Practical Tips for Cooking
- If you happen to have leftovers, store your creamy pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days!
- Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce for an even cheesier flavor—it really takes it to the next level!
- Feel free to prepare the sauce ahead of time and just warm it up when you’re ready to cook the pork. This can make weeknight dinners a snap!
Equipment Needed
To make cooking a breeze, here’s what you’ll need:
- A large skillet (make sure it has a lid!)
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A meat thermometer (for checking that pork is cooked perfectly)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pork chops instead of tenderloin? Yes, pork chops work too! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they might cook faster.
- How can I tell if the pork is done? A meat thermometer is your best friend! It should read 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
- Can I make this dish without the mushrooms? Definitely! You can skip them or substitute them with any other favorite veggie.
- Is this recipe good for meal prep? Yes, this creamy pork tenderloin holds up well in the fridge! Just reheat gently to keep it delicious.
- Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the sauce separately from the pork to keep both fresh. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Let’s Connect!
I hope you love this creamy pork tenderloin recipe as much as I do! Cooking should be fun and fulfilling, and I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. If you tried this recipe, please let me know by sharing your thoughts or some images on Pinterest! Let’s share this delicious journey together!
