Pork Tenderloin Medallions Recipe

Pork Tenderloin Medallions Recipe

Pork Tenderloin Medallions Recipe is a simple way to make a tender and flavorful dinner. Thin pork slices cook quickly in a hot skillet. A creamy garlic sauce adds rich flavor to every bite.

This Pork Tenderloin Medallions Recipe uses simple ingredients and basic cooking steps. It works well for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. If you want to learn How to make Pork Tenderloin Medallions, this easy recipe is a great place to start.

My Story With This Comforting Pork Tenderloin Medallions

I love recipes that look special but do not require much kitchen work. Pork tenderloin medallions are one of my favorite examples. The first time I made them, I was surprised by how quickly they cooked.

The thin slices browned beautifully in the skillet. I added garlic, herbs and a little cream for a simple sauce. The kitchen smelled amazing within minutes.

Now, this recipe is one I make when I want a comforting dinner without spending hours cooking. I usually serve the medallions with mashed potatoes and green vegetables. The creamy sauce makes everything taste even better.

Equipment List

  • Sharp kitchen knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large skillet
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Wooden spoon
  • Tongs
  • Small bowl
  • Meat thermometer
  • Serving platter

Recipe Overview

  • Recipe Name: Pork Tenderloin Medallions Recipe
  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 30 mins
  • Course: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American
  • Calories: 420 kcal per serving
Pork Tenderloin Medallions Recipe
Pork Tenderloin Medallions Recipe

Ingredients for Pork Tenderloin Medallions

  • 1 1/2 pounds pork tenderloin
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instruction for Pork Tenderloin Medallions

1. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin

Remove any visible silver skin from the pork tenderloin. Pat the meat dry with paper towels. Slice it into even rounds about one inch thick for consistent cooking.

2. Season the Medallions

Place the pork slices on a clean plate. Sprinkle both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme and rosemary. Press the seasoning gently into the meat so it sticks well.

3. Heat the Skillet

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it become hot. The oil should shimmer slightly before adding the pork.

4. Sear the Pork

Place the pork medallions in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook for about three minutes on each side. The outside should develop a golden-brown crust.

5. Check the Pork

Use tongs to transfer the browned medallions to a clean plate. Check the thickest piece with a meat thermometer. Pork should reach 145°F before serving.

6. Cook the Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for about thirty seconds until fragrant.

7. Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour chicken broth into the skillet and scrape the browned bits from the bottom. Add cream and Dijon mustard. Stir gently and simmer until the sauce begins to thicken.

8. Finish the Dish

Return the pork medallions to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the meat and simmer gently for two to three minutes. Add lemon juice and parsley before serving.

Cooking Tips and Simple Recipe Variations

  • Cut the pork into evenly sized medallions.
  • Pat the meat dry before seasoning.
  • Preheat the skillet properly before searing.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan.
  • Use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking.
  • Do not overcook pork because it can become dry.
  • Let the cooked pork rest briefly before serving.
  • Add mushrooms to the creamy sauce.
  • Use apple cider instead of some chicken broth.
  • Add smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
  • Replace cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
  • Try fresh sage instead of rosemary.

Little History Behind This Comfort Food

Pork has been an important food in many cuisines for centuries. Tenderloin became popular because it is a lean and tender cut. Slicing tenderloin into medallions makes the meat easier to cook quickly.

It also creates attractive individual portions. Skillet cooking is a classic home-cooking method. It allows the meat to develop a golden crust while keeping the process simple.

Creamy pan sauces are also common in European and American cooking. They make use of the flavorful browned bits left in the skillet. This recipe combines those simple ideas into a comforting modern dinner.

What to Serve With This Dish

Pork tenderloin medallions pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes are perfect for soaking up the sauce. Roasted carrots add natural sweetness and bright color.

Steamed green beans also make a fresh and simple side. You can serve the pork with rice or buttered noodles for a heartier meal. A crisp green salad balances the creamy sauce.

For extra flavor, serve warm crusty bread on the side. It is perfect for enjoying every drop of the skillet sauce.

A Cava Cucumber Mint Lime Drink from Livy Cooks would be a great match for Pork Tenderloin Medallions.

The pork is rich and savory, while the cucumber, mint and lime bring a fresh, crisp contrast. The lime also helps brighten the tenderloin without overpowering its flavor.

Best pairing: Pork Tenderloin Medallions + Cava Cucumber Mint Lime Drink 🍹

Why it works:

  • Fresh cucumber balances the rich pork.
  • Mint adds a cooling flavor.
  • Lime provides a bright, slightly tangy contrast.
  • Cava adds a light, refreshing finish.

Occasion or Event Ideas

This recipe is excellent for a simple weeknight dinner. It cooks quickly and does not require complicated preparation. It also works well for Sunday family meals. The creamy sauce makes the dish feel more special.

For a small dinner party, arrange the medallions on a serving platter. Spoon the sauce over the top and garnish with parsley. You can also serve it during holiday gatherings. Pair it with roasted vegetables and potatoes for a cozy meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers within two hours.
  • Store pork and sauce in an airtight container.
  • Use refrigerated leftovers within three to four days.
  • Reheat gently over low heat.
  • Add a small splash of broth if the sauce becomes thick.
  • Avoid high heat because pork can dry out.
  • Microwave in short intervals when necessary.
  • Stir the sauce between heating intervals.
  • Reheat only the portion you plan to eat.

Nutrition Information

NutrientApproximate Amount
Calories420 kcal
Protein39 g
Carbohydrates7 g
Fat26 g
Fiber1 g
Sugar2 g
Calcium70 mg
Iron2 mg
Sodium620 mg

Nutrition values are approximate and can change with different ingredients and serving sizes.

Is This Dish Good for You?

Pork tenderloin is a lean cut that provides plenty of protein. It also contains important nutrients such as vitamin B12, zinc and selenium. The creamy sauce adds fat and calories.

You can use less cream if you want a lighter meal.Serving the pork with vegetables adds fiber and useful vitamins. Roasted or steamed vegetables make excellent choices.

Cooking pork to a safe internal temperature is important. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest medallion.

Pork Tenderloin Medallions Recipe

Pork Tenderloin Medallions Recipe

Livy Lane
Pork Tenderloin Medallions Recipe is a simple way to make a tender and flavorful dinner. Thin pork slices cook quickly in a hot skillet. A creamy garlic sauce adds rich flavor to every bite.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pounds pork tenderloin
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pork Tenderloin

  • Remove any visible silver skin from the pork tenderloin. Pat the meat dry with paper towels. Slice it into even rounds about one inch thick for consistent cooking.

Season the Medallions

  • Place the pork slices on a clean plate. Sprinkle both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Press the seasoning gently into the meat so it sticks well.

Heat the Skillet

  • Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it become hot. The oil should shimmer slightly before adding the pork.

Sear the Pork

  • Place the pork medallions in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook for about three minutes on each side. The outside should develop a golden-brown crust.

Check the Pork

  • Use tongs to transfer the browned medallions to a clean plate. Check the thickest piece with a meat thermometer. Pork should reach 145°F before serving.

Cook the Garlic

  • Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for about thirty seconds until fragrant.

Make the Creamy Sauce

  • Pour chicken broth into the skillet and scrape the browned bits from the bottom. Add cream and Dijon mustard. Stir gently and simmer until the sauce begins to thicken.

Finish the Dish

  • Return the pork medallions to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the meat and simmer gently for two to three minutes. Add lemon juice and parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Cut the pork into evenly sized medallions.
  • Pat the meat dry before seasoning.
  • Preheat the skillet properly before searing.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan.
  • Use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking.
  • Do not overcook pork because it can become dry.
  • Let the cooked pork rest briefly before serving.
  • Add mushrooms to the creamy sauce.
  • Use apple cider instead of some chicken broth.
  • Add smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
  • Replace cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
  • Try fresh sage instead of rosemary.
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FAQs about Pork Tenderloin Medallions

What are pork tenderloin medallions?

Pork tenderloin medallions are round slices cut from a pork tenderloin. They cook quickly and become tender when prepared carefully.

How long should pork medallions cook?

One-inch pork medallions usually need about three minutes per side for searing. Cooking time can vary depending on thickness and skillet temperature.

What temperature should pork tenderloin reach?

Pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Use a food thermometer in the thickest part for the most accurate reading.

Can I make this recipe without cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk. Chicken broth can also create a lighter pan sauce with less richness.

What vegetables go well with pork medallions?

Green beans, broccoli, carrots, asparagus and roasted Brussels sprouts all work well. Their fresh flavors balance the creamy pork sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Pork Tenderloin Medallions Recipe is a wonderful choice for a cozy homemade dinner. The pork cooks quickly and develops a beautiful golden crust. The creamy garlic sauce makes every bite rich and comforting.

Fresh herbs and lemon keep the sauce balanced. I love serving this meal with mashed potatoes and green vegetables. It feels elegant enough for guests but remains easy enough for a busy evening.

Once you learn How to make Pork Tenderloin Medallions, you can create many variations. Add mushrooms, apples or different herbs for a fresh twist.

Keep this recipe handy whenever you want a warm, satisfying meal. Simple ingredients can create something truly special.

Hi! I’m Livy Lane, the creator of LivyCooks.com. I share easy, delicious recipes anyone can make at home. Let’s cook, taste and enjoy every bite together!