There’s something undeniably special about a dish that only requires 30 minutes to whip up yet feels like a grand celebration at the dinner table. Enter the Marry Me Pork Tenderloin, a recipe that not only delivers juicy, tender morsels of pork but also envelops them in a creamy tomato sauce infused with fresh basil and parmesan. I discovered this delightful treat on one of those busy weeknights when I craved comfort without the fuss of elaborate preparations.
Imagine the first bite: the savory warmth of the garlic mingles with the richness of the creamy sauce, creating an explosion of flavor that pairs perfectly with a cozy evening in. Whether you’re impressing a loved one or just treating yourself after a stressful day, this dish effortlessly captures the essence of home-cooked goodness. Plus, with everyday ingredients at hand, you’ll wonder how something so mouthwatering can come together in such a short time! Gather your utensils, and let’s make some kitchen magic together.
Why is Marry Me Pork Tenderloin a Must-Try?
Simplicity and Speed: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Irresistible Creaminess: The velvety tomato sauce, enriched with parmesan and fresh basil, elevates your meal without any extra effort.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for romantic dinners or family gatherings, it never fails to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it with garlic bread or over rice to enjoy every drop of that luscious sauce.
Health-Conscious Choice: With around 495 calories per serving, this dish is a wholesome yet indulgent option for dinner.
So if you’re looking to impress with a home-cooked meal that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, check out my other quick and easy recipes!
Marry Me Pork Tenderloin Ingredients
For the Pork
• Pork Tenderloin – A tender and flavorful cut; trim excess fat for the best result.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth and warmth; can be substituted with fresh garlic if desired.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste.
For Cooking
• Butter – Adds richness to the dish and helps in browning the pork.
• Olive Oil – Used for frying; feel free to replace with any neutral oil you prefer.
For the Sauce
• Flour – Thickens the sauce and helps to create a roux.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic enhances flavor; adjust based on personal preference.
• Dry White Wine or Chicken Broth (½ cup) – Adds acidity and depth; broth makes a great non-alcoholic alternative.
• Heavy/Whipping Cream (1 cup) – Provides a silky texture to the sauce; swap for half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Tomato Paste (1 tbsp) – Intensifies the tomato flavor in the sauce.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes (⅓ cup) – Bring a sweet, tangy flavor; drain if packed in oil for the best consistency.
• Dried Oregano (½ tsp) – Offers an earthy flavor; Italian seasoning can be used as an alternative.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (¼ tsp) – Adds subtle heat; adjust depending on your spice preference.
For Serving
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (⅓ cup) – Enhances creaminess and flavor; freshly grated is ideal for the best taste.
• Fresh Basil (small handful, chopped/torn) – Brightens the dish; if unavailable, parsley makes a suitable substitute.
With these simple ingredients, you’re just moments away from creating your very own Marry Me Pork Tenderloin masterpiece!
How to Make Marry Me Pork Tenderloin
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Prepare the Pork: Start by trimming the pork tenderloin of any excess fat and cutting it into 1-inch thick rounds. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for maximum flavor.
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Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter. Once hot, carefully add the pork medallions, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Remove them and keep warm under a sheet of foil.
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Make the Roux: Lower the heat to medium and add flour along with the minced garlic to the same skillet. Stir and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the garlic to soften and the flour to combine with the pan drippings.
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Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth) and whisk until the flour is fully dissolved. Let the mixture simmer and reduce by half, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer the sauce gently until it thickens, which will take about 3-4 minutes.
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Finish the Dish: Off the heat, mix in the freshly grated parmesan and chopped basil. Return the pork medallions to the skillet along with any juices, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.
Optional: Serve with garlic bread or over a bed of rice to fully enjoy the creamy sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Pork Tenderloin medallions are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the pork and cut it into rounds up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it’s ready to cook on busy weeknights. Additionally, the creamy tomato sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce over medium heat and add the cooked pork to warm through, mixing in the parmesan and basil just before serving. By following these steps, you maintain the quality and flavor of the dish, delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Pork Tenderloin
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your Marry Me Pork Tenderloin, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, ensure the sauce is well-separated from the meat to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of cream to restore its creamy texture before serving.
Packaging: If freezing, label your container with the date to keep track of how long it’s been stored.
Expert Tips for Marry Me Pork Tenderloin
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always opt for freshly grated parmesan and fresh garlic; they significantly enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
• Mind the Cooking Temperature: Ensure your pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F to guarantee safe consumption and a juicy finish.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer until thickened for optimal flavor development—this makes a world of difference in your Marry Me Pork Tenderloin.
• Adjust to Taste: Season generously, but remember to taste as you go! This helps you avoid any imbalances in flavor, especially with the richness of the sauce.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating gently for the best results.
What to Serve with Marry Me Pork Tenderloin?
The perfect side dishes can elevate your Marry Me Pork Tenderloin experience, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that your family will cherish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety potatoes soak up the delectable creamy sauce, creating a comforting bite that feels like a warm hug.
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Garlic Bread: A crunchy and buttery accompaniment, garlic bread is perfect for scooping up those irresistible sauce remnants left on your plate. Every dip feels like a little indulgence!
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Steamed Broccoli: The bright green florets add a fresh crunch, complementing the savory flavors and balancing the richness of the dish beautifully.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears, lightly seasoned and roasted, add a crisp texture and earthy notes to your meal, enhancing the profiles of the pork.
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Caesar Salad: With crunchy romaine and creamy dressing, this salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pork tenderloin, inviting more bites.
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Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa mixed with fresh herbs can soak up the sauce wonderfully while offering a nutty flavor that keeps things light and healthy.
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Red Wine: Consider serving a fruity red wine like a Pinot Noir. Its acidity complements the sauce beautifully while deepening the overall flavor experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finish, this light and airy dessert brings a hint of luxury, rounding out your romantic dinner with a silky texture and rich flavors.
Marry Me Pork Tenderloin Variations
Get ready to transform your dish into something truly special with these delightful twists!
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Chicken Substitute: Use chicken breasts instead of pork for a lighter, yet equally flavorful meal.
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Fresh Tomato Boost: Swap sun-dried tomatoes for fresh tomatoes to create a lighter, bright sauce that bursts with flavor.
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Non-Dairy Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut-based cream to make it creamy without the dairy.
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Herbal Twist: Add fresh rosemary or thyme along with basil for an aromatic flavor that elevates the whole dish.
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Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
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Veggie Addition: Incorporate sautéed spinach or mushrooms into your sauce for a veggie-packed twist that enhances both flavor and nutrition.
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Cheesy Variation: Stir in some crumbled feta for a tangy, crumbly contrast that complements the richness of the sauce beautifully.
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Citrus Zest: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest to brighten the dish and cut through the creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Let your creativity shine and tailor this delicious Marry Me Pork Tenderloin to your personal taste!
Marry Me Pork Tenderloin Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pork tenderloin?
Absolutely! Look for a pork tenderloin that is bright pink with a bit of marbling throughout for extra flavor. Avoid any cuts with dark spots or an unpleasant smell. Freshness is key to achieving tender and juicy results.
What is the best way to store leftover Marry Me Pork Tenderloin?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing it to maintain its freshness and flavor. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
Can I freeze Marry Me Pork Tenderloin?
Yes, you can freeze it! To freeze, place the pork tenderloin in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To avoid freezer burn, separate the sauce from the meat if possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce turns out thinner than expected, don’t worry! You can thicken it by creating a slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a little cold water to form a paste, then whisk it into the simmering sauce. Allow it to cook for a few minutes until it thickens up nicely.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Certainly! To make a dairy-free version of Marry Me Pork Tenderloin, substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative, like coconut cream or cashew cream. Additionally, use dairy-free cheese to keep that creamy flavor without the lactose.
Is Marry Me Pork Tenderloin safe for pets?
Generally, it’s not recommended to give your dogs or cats rich, creamy dishes. The garlic and spices could upset their stomachs. That said, you can give them small portions of the plain cooked pork (without any sauce or seasoning) as a treat, but always check with your vet first!
Marry Me Pork Tenderloin: Love at First Bite Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Trim the pork tenderloin of any excess fat and cut it into 1-inch thick rounds. Season both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter. Once hot, add the pork medallions and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Lower the heat to medium and add flour and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until the garlic softens.
- Pour in the dry white wine or chicken broth and whisk until dissolved. Let simmer and reduce by half (about 2-3 minutes).
- Stir in heavy cream, tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Off the heat, mix in parmesan and basil. Return pork to skillet with any juices and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.