Delicious Stuffed Pork Tenderloin: A Savory Delight for Any Occasion

If you’re searching for a show-stopping dish that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, then this easy Stuffed pork tenderloin recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Stuffed pork tenderloin combines the rich flavors of seasoned pork with a savory filling that can range from sweet fruits to spicy herbs, offering a unique twist with every bite. Originating from traditional recipes that focus on utilizing the whole animal and minimizing waste, this dish has evolved into a favorite for home cooks around the world. Whether you’re entertaining family or celebrating a special occasion, your homemade Stuffed pork tenderloin from scratch will leave everyone asking for seconds!

This recipe not only captures the essence of comfort food but also provides a beautiful presentation that makes it the star of your dinner table. Read on to discover the secrets to achieving a perfectly moist and flavorful pork tenderloin that everyone will love. Vegan Stuffed pork tenderloin enthusiasts can also explore variations to this classic dish, as we’ll be providing some creative alternatives. Get ready to dive into a culinary adventure!

Recipe Overview:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients:

For the pork tenderloin:

1 ½ pounds pork tenderloin
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika

For the filling:

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (or dairy-free alternative)
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon thyme

Possible Swaps:

For a gluten-free option, ensure the feta cheese is certified gluten-free.
For a dairy-free option, substitute feta with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
Use dried herbs if fresh is not available, but reduce the amount slightly.

Equipment Needed:

Sharp knife
Cutting board
Skillet
Oven-safe baking dish
Meat thermometer
Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). An adequately heated oven ensures that your pork tenderloin cooks evenly, resulting in a juicy and tender outcome.
Prepare the filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the chopped spinach. Cook until wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Combine the filling ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the wilted spinach mixture with feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and thyme. Stir well until thoroughly mixed, and set aside.
Prepare the tenderloin: Place the pork tenderloin on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly the tenderloin by slicing it down the middle, ensuring you do not cut all the way through. You want to create a pocket to hold the filling. Open it up like a book.
Season the pork: Rub the pork tenderloin with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This seasoning creates a flavorful crust during cooking.
Stuff the tenderloin: Spoon the filling mixture into the center of the butterflied pork. Gently press the filling down and fold the tenderloin back over to enclose the mixture. You can use kitchen twine to tie it together or secure it with toothpicks.
Sear the tenderloin: In a hot skillet over medium-high heat, sear the stuffed tenderloin for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. This step adds depth of flavor and a beautiful crust.
Bake in the oven: Transfer the seared tenderloin to an oven-safe baking dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Rest and serve: Remove the stuffed pork tenderloin from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender slice. Cut into medallions and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Special Notes:

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
For meal prep, the filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
If the filling turns out too dry, add a splash of olive oil or a few drops of lemon juice to enhance the flavor.

Variations and Customizations:

For a gluten-free variant, ensure that all ingredients, especially any cheeses, are gluten-free.
Explore different fillings such as apples and walnuts for a sweet and savory flavor or mushrooms and blue cheese for an earthy twist.
If following a vegetarian diet, substitute the pork tenderloin with hearty vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant, and fill them with a similar mixture of cheese and herbs.

Nutritional Information (per serving): [Approximate values]

Calories: 320
Protein: 28g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1g

Engaging Visual Details:

As the pork tenderloin sizzles in the skillet, its enticing aroma fills the kitchen, hinting at the delightful flavors to come. Once baked, the dish showcases a golden-brown exterior with a glistening sheen, inviting you to take that first satisfying bite. Upon slicing, the tender meat reveals a beautiful swirl of vibrant greens and crumbled feta, promising a burst of flavor with every morsel. The combination of savory herbed pork and creamy filling lingers joyfully on the taste buds, making this a memorable meal. For visual appeal, consider incorporating step-by-step photos or instructional videos, especially during the stuffing and slicing stages, to guide readers through the process.

Conclusion:

This Stuffed Pork Tenderloin recipe offers an exceptional way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress your guests at special gatherings. The fragrant spices and the savory filling create a delightful harmony that you won’t want to miss. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own! Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe! Or share your version on Instagram and tag us with MyDeliciousDish. Happy cooking and enjoy your culinary journey!