Introduction
Transform humble pork tenderloin and orzo into a restaurant-worthy dish that’s surprisingly easy to make! This Creamy Pork Tenderloin Medallions with Orzo recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s packed with flavor and incredibly comforting – the whole family will love it!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it balances rich, savory pork with the light, fluffy texture of orzo. The creamy sauce ties everything together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant without being fussy. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Key Ingredients
- 🐷 1.5 lbs boneless pork tenderloin
- 🍝 1 cup orzo pasta
- 🧅 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🍄 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 🥓 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 🥛 1 cup heavy cream
- 🧀 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 🌿 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
- 🧈 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper.
2️⃣ Heat the butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3️⃣ Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms and cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes more.
4️⃣ Return the pork tenderloin to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
5️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
6️⃣ While the pork is baking, cook the orzo according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
7️⃣ Once the pork is rested, slice it into medallions. Stir the cooked orzo, crumbled bacon, and Parmesan cheese into the creamy sauce in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8️⃣ Serve the pork medallions over the creamy orzo, garnished with fresh parsley.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork tenderloin in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can sear the pork in a regular skillet and then transfer it to a baking dish to bake.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the pork; work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
Heat Control
Using medium-high heat for searing the pork ensures a nice brown crust, while low heat for the simmering sauce prevents burning and allows the flavors to meld together. The oven temperature of 400°F (200°C) cooks the pork through gently and evenly.
Crunch Factor
The crumbled bacon adds a delightful salty crunch to the creamy orzo, creating a wonderful textural contrast.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a shortcut, use pre-cooked bacon bits instead of cooking your own.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- For a richer sauce, use a combination of heavy cream and crème fraîche.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish is perfect for gifting! Package individual portions in attractive containers or bake it in a pretty casserole dish and gift the entire thing. Add a festive ribbon for an extra touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Lemon Herb: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the cream sauce, along with a tablespoon of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
🌟 Sun-dried Tomato: Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with the mushrooms.
🌟 Spinach and Artichoke: Add a cup of chopped spinach and a can of drained artichoke hearts to the sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Troubleshooting
- Dry Orzo: If the orzo is too dry, add a little extra cream or broth to the sauce.
- Overcooked Pork: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to the correct temperature to avoid overcooking. Resting the pork allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender final product.
- Lumpy Sauce: If the sauce is lumpy, whisk it vigorously until smooth.
FAQ
- Can I use different mushrooms? Yes, feel free to use any type of mushroom you like, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the orzo and the sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pork and combine everything just before serving to ensure the flavors are at their best.
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Creamy Pork Tenderloin Medallions with Orzo recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using #AngelRecipes!