When it comes to creating a comforting yet impressive meal, Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce is the perfect choice. With its tender and juicy pork complemented by a rich and creamy mustard sauce, this dish brings together bold flavors and elegant presentation. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or enjoying a weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to elevate any dining experience.
In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of preparing Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the cooking process. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this mouthwatering dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce is a delectable combination of savory, sweet, and creamy elements. The pork tenderloin is seared to perfection, allowing it to develop a golden-brown crust while retaining its tenderness. The Dijon cream sauce, made with garlic, mustard, heavy cream, and thyme, adds a velvety richness that perfectly complements the pork. The addition of maple syrup and Worcestershire sauce to the pork marinade provides a balanced sweetness and depth of flavor that will leave everyone asking for more.
This dish is perfect for:
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Dinner Parties: Impress your guests with an easy yet sophisticated main course.
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Holiday Meals: Serve it for special occasions or festive gatherings.
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Family Dinners: A delicious and comforting meal the whole family will enjoy.
Now, let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce.
Ingredients
For the Pork Tenderloin
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2 pork tenderloins (about 1 ½ – 2 lbs each), trimmed of any excess fat, as needed
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Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried crushed rosemary
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon ground cumin
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3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
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1 tablespoon whole grain Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
For the Dijon Cream Sauce
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
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1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lemon juice
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½ cup heavy whipping cream
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1 tablespoon whole grain Dijon mustard
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2 teaspoons dried thyme
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Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1–3 tablespoons water, as needed to thin
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting the pork tenderloin to a tender and juicy perfection. Pat the pork tenderloins dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear.
Next, season the pork generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the dried herbs: oregano, rosemary, thyme, onion powder, and cumin. These spices will infuse the pork with aromatic flavors and enhance its savory taste. Take your time to rub the seasoning into the meat to ensure an even coating.
Step 2: Sear the Pork Tenderloin
In a large, ovenproof skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the pork tenderloins in the skillet. Sear the pork on all sides for about 4-5 minutes, or until it develops a golden-brown crust. This step adds depth to the flavor and locks in the juiciness of the pork.
Once the pork is seared, remove the skillet from the heat. Add whole grain Dijon mustard, pure maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, and low-sodium soy sauce to the skillet. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor of the pork but also create a glaze that will caramelize as it roasts.
Step 3: Roast the Pork
Transfer the skillet with the pork to the preheated oven. Roast the pork tenderloins for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the tenderloin. Once it reaches this temperature, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the pork stays moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Make the Dijon Cream Sauce
While the pork is roasting, it’s time to prepare the Dijon cream sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Next, add freshly squeezed lemon juice, heavy whipping cream, whole grain Dijon mustard, and dried thyme to the saucepan. Stir the mixture to combine all the ingredients and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it by adding water 1 tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once the pork has rested, slice it into medallions of about 1-inch thickness. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and drizzle them generously with the Dijon cream sauce. The creamy sauce will enhance the tender pork, adding a luxurious texture and tangy flavor.
Serve the pork tenderloin with Dijon cream sauce alongside your favorite sides. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light green salad.
Tips for Perfect Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce
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Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the pork is perfectly cooked, always use a meat thermometer. Pork tenderloin should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), followed by a resting time of 5-10 minutes.
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Searing is essential: Don’t skip the searing step, as it helps create a flavorful crust on the pork. This step also helps to lock in moisture, keeping the pork tender and juicy.
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Customize the sauce: The Dijon cream sauce can be adjusted to suit your preferences. If you prefer a stronger mustard flavor, simply add more Dijon mustard. For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of maple syrup.
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Rest the pork: Allowing the pork to rest after roasting ensures that it stays moist and tender. Cutting into it immediately can cause the juices to escape, resulting in a drier piece of meat.
Nutritional Information
This Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce recipe serves approximately 4-6 people. The dish is rich in protein, healthy fats, and flavors, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. Each serving contains:
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Calories: 350-400 (depending on portion size)
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Protein: 35-40 grams
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Fat: 20-25 grams
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Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams
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Fiber: 1 gram
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Sugar: 3-5 grams
This recipe can easily fit into a balanced diet, providing a delicious way to enjoy a protein-rich meal.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you enjoyed Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce, here are a few more recipes that you might find equally tempting:
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Garlic Parmesan Pork Chops: A simple and flavorful way to enjoy tender pork chops, seasoned with garlic and Parmesan.
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Gordon Ramsay Chicken Tikka Masala: A rich, flavorful chicken curry made with aromatic spices and a creamy tomato-based sauce.
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Creamy Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Mac ‘n’ Cheese: A deliciously creamy, cheesy macaroni dish loaded with bacon and the flavors of a cheeseburger.
FAQs about Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pork tenderloin and cream sauce ahead of time. Store the cooked pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or stovetop, and reheat the sauce separately, adding water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
2. What can I serve with Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. You could also serve it with rice or a creamy risotto for a more filling meal.
3. Can I substitute the heavy cream in the Dijon sauce?
If you’d like a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce may be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream.
4. Can I use boneless pork chops instead of pork tenderloin?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used as an alternative to pork tenderloin. Adjust the cooking time as pork chops may cook faster—use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Conclusion
Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce is a flavorful and versatile dish that combines tender pork with a creamy, tangy sauce. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a special gathering. The simple yet bold ingredients come together to create a meal that’s both easy to prepare and sophisticated in flavor.
With the tips and step-by-step instructions provided, you’ll be able to master this recipe and impress your guests with your culinary skills. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Enjoy!
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Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce: A Delicious Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce is a perfect combination of savory pork and rich, creamy mustard sauce. A quick and easy dish that’s ideal for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. It’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor from a blend of spices and a tangy, buttery cream sauce. This recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
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2 pork tenderloins (about 1 ½ – 2 lbs each), trimmed of any excess fat
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Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried crushed rosemary
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon ground cumin
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3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
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1 tablespoon whole grain dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
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1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
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1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
For the Dijon Cream Sauce:
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
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1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lemon juice
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½ cup heavy whipping cream
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1 tablespoon whole grain dijon mustard
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2 teaspoons dried thyme
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Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1–3 tablespoons water, as needed to thin
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the pork tenderloins dry and season generously with salt, pepper, oregano, rosemary, thyme, onion powder, and cumin.
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Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloins on all sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes.
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Remove the skillet from heat, and drizzle in the mustard, maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Stir to combine.
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Place the skillet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
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While the pork roasts, prepare the Dijon cream sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
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Stir in lemon juice, heavy cream, mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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If the sauce is too thick, add water 1 tablespoon at a time to thin it to your desired consistency.
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Once the pork is done, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice and drizzle the Dijon cream sauce over the pork before serving.
Notes
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For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
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You can also serve this dish with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
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For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the skillet after searing the pork, before roasting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting, Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce, Pork Tenderloin, Dijon Cream Sauce, Easy Pork Recipes, Pork Dinner, Creamy Pork Tenderloin, Roasted Pork, Mustard Sauce