This easy pork tenderloin dish is juicy and full of flavor, topped with a rich creamy Dijon sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing your guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and tender, perfect for quick cooking. If pork isn’t your thing, you could substitute with skinless chicken breast or turkey tenderloin, but adjust cooking time accordingly, as these cook faster.
Mustards: Whole grain mustard adds texture, while Dijon provides a sharp flavor. You can swap them for yellow mustard if that’s what you have, though the taste will be milder. If you want a kick, incorporate some spicy brown mustard!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, consider half-and-half or a non-dairy substitute like coconut cream. It will change the flavor a bit, but still delicious!
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary bring aroma to the dish. If you have fresh herbs on hand, use them instead! Just double the amount, as fresh herbs have a milder flavor.
How Do I Get Juicy, Perfectly Cooked Pork Tenderloin?
Cooking pork tenderloin can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it:
- Start by preheating your oven so the pork roasts evenly.
- Searing the pork in an oven-safe skillet gives it a lovely crust. Don’t rush this step—let it brown well for flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; 145°F is your target for juicy meat. Overcooking can dry it out.
- Always let the pork rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious pork tenderloin every time!
Easy Pork Tenderloin with Creamy Dijon Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pork Tenderloin: 1 to 1.5 lbs
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Rosemary: 1 teaspoon, crushed
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Whole Grain Mustard: 1 tablespoon
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
- Chicken Broth: 1/4 cup
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
- Butter: 1 tablespoon (optional)
- Fresh Rosemary Sprigs: for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking time, including searing and roasting in the oven. Total time is approximately 40 minutes, plus 5 minutes to rest the pork before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready for roasting.
2. Prepare the Pork:
Take the pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and garlic powder. Rub this seasoning all over the pork. This will add great flavor!
3. Sear the Pork:
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until it’s browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This helps to lock in the juices and adds color.
4. Roast the Pork:
Now transfer the skillet with the pork to the preheated oven. Roast it for about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
5. Rest the Pork:
Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep the pork juicy.
6. Make the Sauce:
While the pork rests, put the skillet back over medium heat. Add the chicken broth and stir, scraping any browned bits from the pan to add flavor to your sauce.
7. Add Mustards and Cream:
Next, stir in the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, and heavy cream. Cook while stirring frequently until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. If you want an extra creamy sauce, whisk in some butter!
8. Slice the Pork:
After the pork has rested, slice it into 1/2-inch thick pieces and arrange them on a serving platter.
9. Serve with Sauce:
Spoon the creamy Dijon sauce generously over the sliced pork and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if you have them.
10. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve warm with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. Enjoy the tender, flavorful pork with that luscious mustard cream sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute it with chicken breast or turkey tenderloin. Just remember to adjust the cooking time since they can cook faster than pork.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly, but it should still be delicious!
How Can I Make the Sauce Thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it a bit longer to reduce it, or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in a tablespoon of water. Just be sure to continue stirring until it reaches your desired consistency!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or use the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.