Growing up, there was one dish that always graced our holiday table – my grandma’s famous Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin. It was a tradition that brought our family together, the aroma of the pork and fragrant herbs filling the air as we gathered around, eager to dive in. I can still picture the tender slices, each one bursting with juicy flavor and a satisfying crunch from the crisp outer crust.
It wasn’t just the taste that made this Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin so special, though. It was the love and care that went into every step, from carefully selecting the perfect pork tenderloin to meticulously seasoning and stuffing it. Grandma would spend hours in the kitchen, perfecting each element, ensuring this centerpiece dish was nothing short of magnificent. And when we finally sat down to enjoy it, the conversations flowed, the laughter echoed, and we knew we were creating memories that would last a lifetime.
Table of Contents
Why This Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
This Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin recipe is truly one-of-a-kind, and it’s destined to become your new holiday staple. What sets it apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures – the juicy, tender pork tenderloin, the savory herb stuffing, and the golden-brown crust that adds a satisfying crunch in every bite. This recipe yields 6 delectable servings, each one a true delight for the senses.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this mouthwatering Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin, you’ll need:
- 2 lb pork tenderloin
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Instructions
Preparing Your Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
This recipe takes 75 minutes total – 30 minutes for prep and 45 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a large skillet or baking dish, a sharp knife, and a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to perfection.
1- Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
2- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the pork tenderloin lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open the tenderloin like a book and spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the exposed surface.
3- Carefully roll up the stuffed tenderloin and secure it with kitchen string or toothpicks. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4- Sear the stuffed pork tenderloin on all sides until a golden-brown crust forms, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the stuffed pork tenderloin for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
6- Remove the tenderloin from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into 6 equal portions and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and avoid overcooking
- Let the tenderloin rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute
- Experiment with different herb and spice combinations to find your family’s favorite flavor profile
- Consider serving the stuffed pork tenderloin with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal
Serving and Storing Your Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Perfect Pairings for Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
This Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin is the centerpiece of the meal, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Roasted potatoes, sautéed brussels sprouts, or a crisp green salad make excellent accompaniments. For beverages, a full-bodied red wine or a festive cranberry spritzer would be a perfect match. This recipe yields 6 servings, with each portion being 1 slice.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you have any leftover Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply slice the pork and warm it in a skillet or the oven until heated through. For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the stuffed tenderloin up to 1 day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to sear and bake.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Creative Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Variations
While the traditional Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on this holiday classic. Try swapping the breadcrumb stuffing for a wild rice and cranberry mixture, or add a layer of sautéed mushrooms and onions for extra flavor. You could also experiment with different herb blends, such as rosemary and sage, or even a touch of citrus zest to brighten the dish.
Making Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Diet-Friendly
For those looking to enjoy this dish while following a specific dietary plan, there are plenty of ways to adapt the recipe. To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute almond or coconut flour. For a low-carb version, omit the breadcrumbs and use a keto-friendly stuffing like chopped spinach, feta, and pine nuts. And for a vegan or vegetarian option, you can stuff the pork tenderloin with a plant-based protein, such as crumbled tofu or lentils, along with your choice of herbs and seasonings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute the pork tenderloin with a different cut of pork?
A: While you can use a different cut of pork, such as a loin or chop, pork tenderloin is the most tender and juicy option for this recipe. The smaller size and uniform shape also make it easier to stuff and cook evenly.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin recipe yields exactly 6 servings, with each serving being 1 slice.
Q: Can I prepare the stuffed tenderloin in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed pork tenderloin up to 1 day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to sear and bake. This makes for easy meal prep and a stress-free holiday dinner.
Q: What’s the best way to slice the cooked pork tenderloin?
A: Use a sharp, serrated knife to slice the tenderloin into 6 equal portions. Cut the pork at a slight angle for a more visually appealing presentation.
Q: How can I tell if the pork tenderloin is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F. This will result in a juicy, slightly pink center that’s safe to eat.
Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
- Total Time: 75
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Elevate your Christmas feast with this mouthwatering Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin. Juicy, tender pork loin is wrapped in a savory, herb-infused stuffing for a show-stopping holiday main dish.
Ingredients
– 2 lb pork tenderloin
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. 2. In a medium bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. 3. Butterfly the pork tenderloin by slicing it lengthwise, stopping about 1 inch from the other side. Open the tenderloin like a book.
4. 4. Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the open tenderloin.
5. 5. Roll up the tenderloin and secure it with kitchen string or toothpicks.
6. 6. Place the stuffed tenderloin in a baking dish and brush with olive oil.
7. 7. Roast for 45-55 minutes, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
8. 8. Let the tenderloin rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to the perfect temperature. You can also try different herb and seasoning combinations to customize the flavors.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Chicken, Turkey & Pork Mains
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Christmas Stuffed Pork Tenderloin recipe is truly a holiday showstopper, and once you try it, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. The combination of tender pork, savory stuffing, and crisp outer crust is simply irresistible. So, gather your loved ones, fire up the oven, and get ready to create some magical memories around the table with this unforgettable dish. Bon appétit, and Merry Christmas!
