This creamy pork tenderloin is not just easy to make but full of flavor. With tender pork cooked in a rich, creamy sauce, it’s perfect for any dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is your star ingredient! It cooks quickly and stays tender. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, chicken breasts or even turkey tenderloins would work nicely as substitutes.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness in your dish. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a good replacement.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free twist. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be less thick.
Fresh Thyme: Thyme adds amazing flavor! If it’s not available, Italian seasoning or dried oregano can be a great alternative. Just use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Seared Pork Medallions?
Searing the pork medallions creates a beautiful brown crust, adding depth to the flavor. Follow these tips for success:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the pork; this helps form a crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you have too many medallions, they’ll steam instead of sear.
- Cook them for about 3 minutes per side, then let them rest. This keeps the juices inside!
By following these steps and tips, you’ll end up with perfectly seared pork and a delicious creamy sauce that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Creamy Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds pork tenderloin, sliced into 1-inch medallions
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This delicious creamy pork tenderloin recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, in approximately 30-35 minutes, you can have a delightful meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Medallions:
Start by patting the pork medallions dry with paper towels. This helps them get nice and brown. Then, season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Pork:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the pork medallions. Sear them until they turn golden brown on both sides, which usually takes about 3 minutes per side. When done, remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—keep it moving!
4. Add Broth and Dijon Mustard:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the Dijon mustard, stirring to combine everything. Make sure to scrape up any delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor to your sauce!
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Let the broth simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. This helps concentrate the flavors and get it ready for the cream.
6. Stir in Cream and Thyme:
Now it’s time to add the heavy cream and thyme to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens up a bit. The aroma will be amazing!
7. Combine Pork with Sauce:
Return the pork medallions to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious creamy sauce over the top. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, making sure the pork is cooked through and coated with that velvety sauce.
8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Give the sauce a taste and add extra salt and pepper if you think it needs it. Remember, seasoning is key to making the flavors shine!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy pork tenderloin with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. Serve it warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables. Now, dig in and enjoy the deliciousness!
FAQ for Creamy Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Can I Use Other Meats Instead of Pork Tenderloin?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts or turkey tenderloins can be excellent substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since chicken may take a little longer to cook through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. This will give you a creamy texture while keeping it dairy-free.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Pork Tenderloin?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a lighter option!
