There’s something magical about the aroma of a perfectly cooked Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Christmas wafting through the house. Picture this: succulent pork, tender and juicy, enveloped around a delightful filling that bursts with flavors. You can almost hear the festive music playing and see the twinkling lights as you prepare this show-stopping dish for your holiday gathering.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Christmas</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use other meats instead of pork?
- What should I serve with stuffed pork tenderloin?
- How do I know when the pork is done cooking?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about creating memories. I remember one Christmas when my uncle decided to “help” with dinner and ended up turning the stuffing into a questionable casserole instead of its intended glory. Spoiler alert: it was still delicious, but we all learned to keep him away from the kitchen during the holidays. This year, let’s ensure your Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Christmas becomes a cherished family favorite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Stuffed Pork Tenderloin is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for holiday gatherings
- The flavor profile is rich and savory with a hint of sweetness
- Its visual appeal will impress your guests, while also being versatile enough for any occasion
- Enjoy it as a festive centerpiece or slice it thin for sandwiches later
I once served this dish at a family reunion, and let’s just say the compliments kept rolling in like an unexpected snowstorm.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pork Tenderloin: Look for lean cuts that are even in size for even cooking.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition; wilt it slightly before using.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives a creamy texture with a tangy kick that balances the meat.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Choose oil-packed ones for added moisture and flavor; chopped finely.
Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for their potent aroma that elevates any dish.
Pine Nuts: Lightly toasted pine nuts add crunch; they complement the creaminess of feta beautifully.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances all flavors while keeping everything moist.
Herbs (Thyme & Rosemary): Fresh herbs provide aromatic depth; chop finely to release their oils.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Christmas
Prepare Your Workspace: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out all your ingredients so you can grab them quickly. Trust me, no one wants to be searching for garlic when you’re trying to impress your guests.
Create the Flavorful Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and add minced garlic until it’s fragrant—about 1 minute. Then toss in fresh spinach until wilted, followed by sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts. Cook until everything melds together beautifully.
Add Cheese and Herbs: Remove from heat and stir in crumbled feta cheese, thyme, and rosemary. The mixture should look vibrant and smell heavenly! Let it cool slightly while you prepare the pork.
Stuff That Tenderloin!: Take your pork tenderloin and slice it open lengthwise—like giving it a cozy blanket of stuffing! Gently pound it down for even thickness. Spread your delicious filling evenly inside, then roll it up tightly like a burrito of joy.
Sear and Roast the Pork: Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat with more olive oil. Sear each side of the stuffed tenderloin until golden brown—about 3-4 minutes per side. Then transfer the skillet to your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
Slice and Serve!: Once done cooking, let your masterpiece rest for 10 minutes before slicing into medallions that reveal that beautiful filling inside. Serve warm along with seasonal sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for maximum holiday cheer!
Now you’re ready to dazzle your family with this Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Christmas recipe! Enjoy every bite filled with laughter, love, and those unforgettable moments that make holidays so special.
You Must Know
- Stuffed pork tenderloin is a festive dish that wows guests with its flavor and presentation
- The aromas wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds
- Perfect for holiday gatherings, this dish combines savory stuffing with succulent pork to create a memorable meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the stuffed pork tenderloin in a hot pan to lock in the juices, then roast it in the oven until it reaches 145°F. This ensures a perfectly cooked, flavorful dish that’s juicy and tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the stuffing ingredients based on your taste. Try adding cranberries for sweetness or pecans for crunch, letting you personalize this delicious centerpiece.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to preserve moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to bring the pork to room temperature before cooking for even results
- Always let the meat rest after cooking; this enhances juiciness
- Use a digital thermometer for precise temperature readings, ensuring perfectly cooked pork every time
The first time I made stuffed pork tenderloin was during a family holiday dinner, and my aunt declared it better than her famous roast! That praise still warms my heart.
FAQ
Can I use other meats instead of pork?
Yes, chicken or turkey can be excellent substitutes for stuffed meat dishes.
What should I serve with stuffed pork tenderloin?
Pair it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal experience.
How do I know when the pork is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read 145°F for safe and juicy pork tenderness.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Christmas
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the festive flavors of Stuffed Pork Tenderloin this holiday season. This dish features a juicy pork tenderloin wrapped around a savory filling of fresh spinach, tangy feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and crunchy pine nuts. Perfectly roasted to golden perfection, it’s not only a centerpiece for your holiday table but also offers delightful leftovers for sandwiches. With its rich flavors and impressive presentation, this recipe is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; sauté garlic until fragrant. Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts; cook until combined.
- Stir in feta cheese, thyme, and rosemary; let cool.
- Slice pork tenderloin lengthwise and pound for even thickness. Spread the filling evenly inside and roll tightly.
- Sear tenderloin in an oven-safe skillet until golden brown (3-4 minutes per side). Transfer to the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
