This creamy pork tenderloin dish is both easy to make and incredibly tasty! It features tender pork cooked in a rich and smooth sauce that makes every bite feel special.
The best part? It’s a one-pan meal, so fewer dishes to wash! I love serving this with some mashed potatoes to soak up the yummy sauce—it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the dish! It’s tender and cooks quickly. If you’re looking for a substitute, chicken breast works well, but adjust cooking times as it cooks faster.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half, or for a dairy-free version, try coconut cream. Just know that it will change the flavor a bit!
Chicken Broth: It adds depth to the sauce. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter taste or homemade stock for extra flavor. If you don’t have broth, water works in a pinch, but you might miss out on some flavor.
Thyme: This herb brings a lovely aroma. If you don’t have thyme, you can substitute it with rosemary or Italian seasoning. Just be careful with stronger flavors as they can dominate the dish.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Pork for Tenderness?
Searing the pork properly is key to keeping it juicy inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your pan is hot before adding the pork. A hot pan gives a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you add too many pieces, they’ll steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if needed.
- Let it cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a good sear before flipping.
This technique helps seal in the juices, keeping the pork moist and flavorful. Happy cooking!
Creamy Pork Tenderloin Recipe Easy and Delicious
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin, sliced into 1-inch medallions
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy pork tenderloin takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes to make a wonderful, satisfying meal. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork:
Start by patting the pork medallions dry with paper towels. This step is important for a nice sear! Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
2. Sear the Pork:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Add the pork medallions in a single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are browned and just cooked through. Once done, remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Flavorful Base:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion if you’re using it. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Stir often to prevent burning.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet to deglaze it, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. These bits add wonderful flavor! Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Enhance the Creamy Flavor:
Add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if you like a bit of tang), and thyme to the pan. Stir together and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer. Keep stirring a little until it thickens slightly, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the pork medallions to the pan, making sure they are well coated with the creamy sauce. Let everything warm together on low heat for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the pork is fully cooked and deliciously creamy.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
8. Serving Suggestion:
Serve the creamy pork tenderloin hot, ideally over a bed of mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to make the most of that dreamy sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Bon appétit and enjoy your delicious, easy-to-make creamy pork tenderloin!
FAQ for Creamy Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! If you don’t have pork tenderloin, pork chops or loin can be good substitutes. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as they may require slightly longer cooking to become tender and fully cooked.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to use half-and-half or whole milk instead. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or cashew cream works well, but they will alter the taste a bit!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and cook the pork and sauce, then cool it down and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce a bit.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Pork Tenderloin?
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad on the side.
