why make this recipe
Tasty Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin is a fantastic dish that brings warmth and joy to any festive gathering. It combines tender pork with a flavorful stuffing of cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners. When served, it creates a stunning centerpiece on the table, sure to impress your guests.
how to make Tasty Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients:
- 1 pork tenderloin
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for searing
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Butterfly the pork tenderloin by slicing it lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
- Spread the spinach mixture evenly inside the tenderloin, then roll it up tightly.
- Secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
how to serve Tasty Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Serve the Tasty Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin on a festive platter. Slice the tenderloin into thick pieces to showcase the colorful filling. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the top for added flavor.
how to store Tasty Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
To store any leftovers, place the sliced tenderloin in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the slices for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
tips to make Tasty Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing with the other ingredients.
- You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the stuffing for extra flavor.
- Let the pork rest after cooking to keep it juicy when you slice it.
variation
You can use different types of cheese, like feta or goat cheese, for a unique taste. Adding sliced mushrooms or cooked bacon to the stuffing can also elevate the dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken instead of pork tenderloin?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach the right temperature.
2. How do I know when the pork is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C) to be safe to eat.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pork and stuffing the day before. Just store it in the fridge and then bake it the next day.
Tasty Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful pork tenderloin stuffed with cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for searing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Butterfly the pork tenderloin by slicing it lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
- Spread the spinach mixture evenly inside the tenderloin, then roll it up tightly.
- Secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing. You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Let the pork rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: pork tenderloin, stuffed pork, holiday recipe, Christmas dinner, festive meal