This stuffed pork tenderloin is a delectable dish that combines the savory flavors of meat with a rich, flavorful stuffing. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will impress your guests with its taste and presentation. Follow these detailed steps to create a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
Ingredients
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 1 large pork tenderloin (about 2 pounds)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
- Butterfly the Tenderloin: Place the pork tenderloin on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the tenderloin lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open the tenderloin like a book.
- Pound the Meat: Cover the opened tenderloin with plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound the tenderloin to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch.
- Season the Meat: Remove the plastic wrap and season both sides of the tenderloin with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, onion, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and basil.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the olive oil and chicken broth. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. The stuffing should be moist but not soggy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Stuff and Roll the Tenderloin
- Spread the Stuffing: Spread the prepared stuffing evenly over the opened tenderloin, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll the Meat: Carefully roll the tenderloin starting from one long side to enclose the stuffing. Use kitchen twine to tie the rolled tenderloin at 1-inch intervals to secure it.
Step 4: Sear and Cook the Tenderloin
- Sear the Meat: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the rolled tenderloin and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Add Broth: Once seared, pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the skillet around the tenderloin.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Rest the Meat: Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the tenderloin to a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the tenderloin into 1-inch slices and arrange on a serving platter. Drizzle with the pan juices before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Stuffing Variations: Feel free to customize the stuffing with ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or different cheeses.
- Herb Crust: For an added flavor boost, mix fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme with olive oil and brush it over the tenderloin before searing.
- Sauce Option: Serve with a simple pan sauce made by reducing the pan juices with a splash of white wine and a pat of butter.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this stuffed pork tenderloin provides a balanced amount of protein, healthy fats from the olive oil and cheese, and fiber from the herbs and tomatoes. It’s a wholesome dish that fits well into a balanced diet.
This stuffed pork tenderloin recipe is a showstopper that combines the tenderness of pork with a flavorful stuffing. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special event, this dish will make any meal memorable. Enjoy the cooking process and the delightful flavors that come with it. Happy cooking
