Stuffed pork tenderloin is a show-stopping dish that looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to impress your family with a flavorful meal, this recipe will guide you step-by-step on how to prepare a juicy, tender pork tenderloin filled with delicious stuffing.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
Pork tenderloin is a lean, tender cut of meat that cooks quickly. Stuffing it adds flavor, moisture, and a beautiful presentation. The key steps include butterflying the pork, preparing a tasty filling, rolling it up, securing it, searing for a golden crust, and finishing it in the oven.
Ingredients for a Classic Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Here’s a basic list to get you started. Feel free to customize the stuffing to your taste!
– 1 ½ to 2 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed and silver skin removed
– Olive oil
– Salt and black pepper
– Filling options (choose one or combine):
– Mushrooms, onions, garlic, and fresh parsley sautéed in bacon fat
– Spinach, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes
– Cream cheese, cheddar, and diced jalapeños
– Dried apricots, leeks, chipotle peppers, and fresh thyme
You’ll also need butcher’s twine or toothpicks to secure the roll.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Butterfly and Pound the Pork Tenderloin
– Lay the pork tenderloin on a cutting board.
– Using a sharp knife, cut lengthwise down the middle, but do not slice all the way through-open it like a book.
– Cover with plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until the meat is about ½ inch thick and even in thickness. This helps the pork cook evenly and makes it easier to roll around the stuffing.
2. Prepare the Filling
– Sauté your chosen filling ingredients. For example, cook chopped bacon until crispy, then add mushrooms, onions, garlic, and parsley until soft and fragrant. Or sauté spinach with garlic and red pepper flakes, then combine with feta and sun-dried tomatoes.
– Let the filling cool slightly before spreading it on the pork.
3. Stuff and Roll the Tenderloin
– Spread the filling evenly over the butterflied pork, leaving about a ½ inch border around the edges.
– Carefully roll the pork up tightly from the long side, like a jelly roll.
– Secure the roll with butcher’s twine or toothpicks spaced evenly to hold the shape and keep the filling inside while cooking.
4. Sear the Pork
– Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with some olive oil.
– Sear the rolled pork on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and adds flavor.
5. Roast in the Oven
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Transfer the seared pork to the oven (in the skillet if oven-safe, or on a baking sheet).
– Roast for about 18-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare to medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
6. Rest and Slice
– Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat tender and juicy.
– Remove the twine or toothpicks, then slice the tenderloin into rounds to reveal the beautiful stuffing inside.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
– Remove silver skin: This tough membrane can prevent even cooking and make the meat chewy. Your butcher can do this, or you can do it at home with a sharp knife.
– Don’t overstuff: Leave some space at the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out.
– Use a meat thermometer: Pork is safe to eat at 145°F, and this ensures the tenderloin stays juicy and not dry.
– Rest the meat: Letting the pork rest after cooking is essential for juicy slices.
– Try bacon wrapping: Wrapping the stuffed tenderloin in bacon before roasting adds flavor and helps hold the roll together.
Flavor Variations for Stuffing
– Italian Style: Spinach, prosciutto, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
– Mediterranean: Feta, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs with a balsamic glaze.
– Sweet and Spicy: Dried apricots, chipotle peppers, leeks, and fresh thyme with an orange sauce.
– Cheesy and Savory: Cream cheese, cheddar, roasted bell peppers, garlic, and chopped apples for a sweet contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed pork tenderloin pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. A pan sauce made from drippings or a fruit-based glaze can elevate the dish even more.
Cooking a stuffed pork tenderloin is easier than it looks and makes for an impressive, flavorful meal. With a few simple steps, you can create a juicy, tender dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results!