The delightful tenderness of pork, combined with a creamy, tangy Dijon sauce, has a way of transforming a simple weeknight dinner into an extravagant culinary experience. This Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce came to life during a busy evening when the desire for something special clashed with a time crunch. As I rummaged through the pantry and fridge, the obvious choice, with its crowd-pleasing allure, quickly emerged.
Combining rich flavors of garlic, buttery goodness, and the sharp kick of mustard creates a symphony that dances on your palate, all while being impressively easy to whip up! You can put this dish on the table in just 30 minutes—perfect for those evenings when fast food is calling, but a home-cooked meal is truly what you crave. Let’s dive into this recipe that promises to delight your senses and become a staple for your dinner repertoire!
Why You'll Love This Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce
- This recipe is a breeze to make, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The combination of juicy pork and a creamy, tangy Dijon sauce creates a flavor explosion that is sure to impress everyone at the table.
- It's versatile enough to pair well with a variety of side dishes, so you can easily customize it to fit your meal preferences.
- With its beautiful presentation and mouthwatering aroma, this dish will surely have your family and guests asking for seconds.
Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce Ingredients
• Elevate your cooking with these essentials!
For the Pork
- 1 lb pork tenderloin – trim it for an even cook and tender bite.
- 1 teaspoon salt – enhances the flavors of all ingredients.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper – adds a touch of warmth and spice.
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – provides rich flavor and helps to sear the pork beautifully.
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter – adds creaminess and depth to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) – infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
- 2 tablespoon Dijon mustard – creates the tangy character of the mustard cream sauce.
- 0.5 cup chicken broth – deglazes the pan and adds moisture to the sauce.
- 0.75 cup heavy cream – enriches the sauce with a velvety texture.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (chopped) – brings a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.
Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce will surely impress!
How to Make Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce
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Season the pork tenderloin with salt and black pepper. This simple step enhances the natural flavors of the meat, ensuring every bite is savory and delicious.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Then, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
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Lower the heat and add unsalted butter along with minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic becomes fragrant, taking care not to burn it, which takes about 1 minute.
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Stir in the Dijon mustard and chicken broth. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze, capturing all those delicious, caramelized bits, about 2 minutes.
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Add heavy cream and chopped thyme. Simmer the mixture until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take around 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Return the seared pork to the skillet and cook until its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This usually requires about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Rest the pork for a few minutes, then slice it thoughtfully. Serve with the creamy sauce spooned generously over the top, inviting everyone to dig in!
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh thyme for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this delightful dish to your taste buds!
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Herb-Infused: Add a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to the sauce for a fragrant twist. The herbs will elevate the flavor profile, making each bite even more aromatic.
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Mushroom Medley: Sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic before adding to the sauce. They’ll offer a lovely earthiness, enhancing both flavor and texture for mushroom lovers.
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Honey Glaze: Stir in a tablespoon of honey for a hint of sweetness that beautifully balances the tangy mustard. This creates a sweet-savory contrast that will delight your palate.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat. This simple addition will give your dish a fiery twist, perfect for those who love a little spice in their life.
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Coconut Cream: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. It lends a rich, tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with the mustard.
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Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a balsamic glaze on top before serving. The sweet tanginess complements the pork beautifully, creating an eye-catching finish.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in some steamed broccoli or green beans into the skillet before serving. This adds vibrant color and nutrition, making the meal even more wholesome.
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Nutty Texture: Finely chop toasted walnuts or pecans and sprinkle them over the top before serving. The crunchy texture adds a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce, making it even more indulgent.
These variations invite you to customize this dish according to your preferences, ensuring every meal is an enjoyable culinary adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce
Fridge: Keep any leftover Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures it stays fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: If you want to save it for later, freeze the pork and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the pork and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally for even warming.
Airtight Sealing: Ensure the dish is sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn, which can compromise the creamy sauce's texture.
What to Serve with Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce?
Discover the best side dishes to complement your tender, creamy creation, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the luscious Dijon sauce.
- Roasted Asparagus: The slight crispness and fresh flavor of roasted asparagus offer a delightful contrast to the rich pork.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: With their caramelized edges and nutty taste, they bring an extra layer of texture and flavor harmony.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing blend of quinoa, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds a light, bright touch to your hearty meal.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, honey-glazed carrots provide a vibrant, colorful pop on the plate while balancing the savory sauce.
- French Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is ideal for mopping up any of that delicious mustard cream sauce left on the plate.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay brings out the flavors in the pork and enhances the Dijon mustard’s tang.
- Berry Tart: For dessert, a tangy berry tart offers a delightful finish, rounding off the meal with a sweet and tart contrast.
Make Ahead Options
These Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce are ideal for meal prep, making weeknight dinners smoother and less hectic! You can season the pork tenderloin with salt and black pepper and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, the sauce can be prepared and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy consistency. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet until warmed through and cook the pork until done. This thoughtful prep means you’ll enjoy just as delicious results with minimal effort, giving you more time to unwind after a busy day!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce, always make sure to trim the pork tenderloin for even cooking and enhanced tenderness.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the pork to achieve a beautiful golden crust on each side.
- When deglazing the pan, take your time to scrape up the browned bits, as they add incredible flavor to your sauce.
- Remember to use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F for the best taste and texture.
Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce Recipe FAQs
What should I look for in a ripe pork tenderloin?
Absolutely! When selecting a pork tenderloin, look for one that is pinkish in color with a slight sheen. It should be firm to the touch, and avoid any that have dark spots or a dull appearance. These visual cues can indicate freshness, ensuring your dish is as delicious as possible.
How should I store leftovers of the Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce?
Very! To keep your leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them as soon as they cool down. Properly stored, they can last up to 3 days. Make sure to label the container with the date, so you know when it's time to enjoy them again!
Can I freeze Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce?
Absolutely! If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy, simply transfer the container to the fridge overnight to thaw. To reheat, heat gently in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
What if my sauce isn’t thickening?
No worries! If your sauce is too thin, try simmering it longer to allow the cream to reduce. If time is short, you can also mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce and simmer for a few more minutes. This will help thicken it quickly while maintaining that creamy texture we all love.
Is this dish suitable for dietary restrictions?
Very! This Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce can be adapted for certain dietary needs. If you're concerned about dairy, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. However, please note that Dijon mustard may contain gluten, so be sure to check the label for any allergies or dietary preferences.
What can I serve with Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce?
The more the merrier! This dish pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Consider creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even offer a vibrant grain like quinoa or farro to enhance the dish's nutritional content and visually impress your guests!
Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the pork tenderloin with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside.
- Lower the heat and add unsalted butter along with minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze, about 2 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and chopped thyme, simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Return the seared pork to the skillet and cook until its internal temperature reaches 145°F, about 5-7 minutes.
- Rest the pork for a few minutes, then slice it and serve with the creamy sauce.
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