Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin: A Flavor Explosion Recipe

Are you looking for a dish that’s both impressive and incredibly delicious? Look no further than this Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin. This recipe elevates a simple pork tenderloin into a gourmet meal, perfect for a special occasion or a satisfying weeknight dinner. The combination of savory pork, fragrant pesto, and gooey cheese creates a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. With a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. We’ll guide you through each step, from preparing the pork tenderloin to achieving that perfect golden-brown sear. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this show-stopping dish!

## Why This Recipe Works

* **Flavor Combination:** The pesto, cheese, and pork create a harmonious blend of flavors. The pesto adds a vibrant, herby note, while the cheese provides a creamy, rich element that complements the tender pork. The result is a well-balanced and satisfying dish.
* **Easy to Make:** Despite its elegant presentation, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. The stuffing process is simple, and the searing and baking methods are beginner-friendly.
* **Impressive Presentation:** The stuffed pork tenderloin looks stunning when sliced, revealing the colorful pesto and cheese filling. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your guests.
* **Versatile:** This recipe can be easily customized to your liking. You can experiment with different types of pesto, cheese, or even add other ingredients to the filling.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is a perfect choice.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin:

* **Pork Tenderloin:** 1.5 – 2 pounds, trimmed of silver skin
* **Pesto:** 1/2 cup (store-bought or homemade)
* **Cheese:** 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian blend (provolone and parmesan work well too)
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste
* **Optional:** 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (for added flavor and texture)
* **Optional:** Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
* **Optional:** Toothpicks or kitchen twine

**Ingredient Notes:**

* **Pork Tenderloin:** Choose a pork tenderloin that is firm and pink in color. Avoid tenderloins that are pale or have a strong odor. Trimming the silver skin is crucial for tenderizing the pork. The silver skin is a thin, silvery membrane that can make the pork tough. You can easily remove it with a sharp knife.
* **Pesto:** You can use store-bought pesto or make your own. Homemade pesto is always fresher and more flavorful, but store-bought pesto is a convenient option. If using store-bought pesto, choose a high-quality brand with fresh ingredients.
* **Cheese:** Mozzarella cheese is a classic choice for this recipe because it melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the pesto and pork. However, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as provolone, parmesan, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
* **Sun-dried Tomatoes:** Adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling adds a burst of intense flavor and a chewy texture that complements the other ingredients.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Sharp Knife:** For trimming and butterflying the pork tenderloin.
* **Cutting Board:** A sturdy cutting board for preparing the pork.
* **Small Bowl:** For mixing the pesto and cheese (optional).
* **Large Skillet or Oven-Safe Pan:** For searing the pork.
* **Oven:** For baking the pork tenderloin.
* **Meat Thermometer:** To ensure the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
* **Optional:** Toothpicks or kitchen twine, to hold the pork together during cooking.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create your own delicious Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin:

**Step 1: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin**

1. **Trim the Silver Skin:** Place the pork tenderloin on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the silver skin. Insert the tip of the knife under the silver skin and gently pull it away from the pork, running the knife along the membrane to separate it. Discard the silver skin.
2. **Butterfly the Pork:** To butterfly the pork, hold a sharp knife parallel to the cutting board and slice horizontally through the center of the tenderloin, starting from one long side. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Leave about ½ inch of meat intact so that the tenderloin can be opened like a book.
3. **Pound the Pork (Optional):** Place the butterflied pork tenderloin between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large ziplock bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the pork to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This will help tenderize the pork and create a larger surface area for the filling.
4. **Season the Pork:** Lightly season the inside of the butterflied pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.

**Step 2: Prepare the Filling**

1. **Mix the Pesto and Cheese (Optional):** In a small bowl, combine the pesto and shredded cheese. If you’re adding sun-dried tomatoes, mix them in as well. This step helps to evenly distribute the cheese and pesto in the filling, but you can also spread them separately on the pork.

**Step 3: Stuff the Pork Tenderloin**

1. **Spread the Filling:** Spread the pesto and cheese mixture evenly over the inside of the butterflied pork tenderloin, leaving about 1/2 inch border around the edges. If you prefer, you can spread the pesto first, then sprinkle the cheese on top.
2. **Roll Up the Pork:** Carefully roll the pork tenderloin tightly, starting from one long side. Try to keep the filling inside as you roll. Tuck in any loose filling as you go.
3. **Secure the Pork (Optional):** Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the rolled pork tenderloin. Insert toothpicks every 1-2 inches along the seam to hold the pork together. Alternatively, tie the pork with kitchen twine at regular intervals.

**Step 4: Sear the Pork Tenderloin**

1. **Heat the Olive Oil:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the pork.
2. **Sear the Pork:** Place the stuffed pork tenderloin in the hot skillet and sear on all sides until golden brown. This will take about 2-3 minutes per side. Searing the pork creates a flavorful crust and helps to seal in the juices.
3. **Add Garlic:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

**Step 5: Bake the Pork Tenderloin**

1. **Transfer to Oven (If Necessary):** If you used a skillet that is not oven-safe, transfer the seared pork tenderloin to a baking dish.
2. **Bake:** Bake the pork tenderloin in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the pork, making sure not to touch any of the filling.
3. **Rest:** Remove the pork tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork.

**Step 6: Slice and Serve**

1. **Remove Toothpicks or Twine:** Remove the toothpicks or kitchen twine from the pork tenderloin.
2. **Slice:** Slice the pork tenderloin into 1/2-inch thick slices.
3. **Serve:** Arrange the slices on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

## Tips for Success

* **Don’t Overcook:** Pork tenderloin is best served medium-rare to medium. Overcooking can make it dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
* **Rest the Pork:** Allowing the pork to rest after cooking is crucial for retaining its juices. Don’t skip this step!
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh ingredients, such as homemade pesto and freshly grated cheese, will result in a more flavorful dish.
* **Adjust the Filling:** Feel free to adjust the amount of pesto and cheese to your liking. You can also add other ingredients to the filling, such as chopped spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
* **Get Creative with Cheese:** Experiment with different cheese options beyond mozzarella. Provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses can add unique flavors.
* **Properly Trim the Silver Skin:** Make sure you completely remove the silver skin from the pork tenderloin. It can become tough and unpleasant when cooked.
* **Even Thickness for Even Cooking:** Pound the butterflied pork to a uniform thickness to ensure even cooking throughout.
* **Don’t Overfill:** Avoid overfilling the pork tenderloin, as this can make it difficult to roll and may cause the filling to spill out during cooking.
* **Hot Pan is Key:** Make sure your pan is adequately heated before searing the pork to get a good crust.

## Serving Suggestions

This Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, carrots, or potatoes, are a healthy and flavorful side dish that complements the pork.
* **Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes are a comforting and satisfying side dish.
* **Rice or Quinoa:** Rice or quinoa is a simple and versatile side dish that can be flavored with herbs, spices, or vegetables.
* **Salad:** A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing side dish that balances the richness of the pork.
* **Pasta:** A simple pasta dish, such as pasta aglio e olio or pasta with marinara sauce, is a delicious and satisfying side dish.
* **Crusty Bread:** Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious juices.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Different Pesto:** Experiment with different types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato pesto, kale pesto, or walnut pesto.
* **Different Cheese:** Try using different types of cheese, such as provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
* **Add Vegetables:** Add chopped vegetables to the filling, such as spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
* **Spicy Pork:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a touch of heat.
* **Herb Crusted:** Before searing, coat the outside of the pork with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and parmesan cheese.
* **Maple Glaze:** Brush the pork with a maple glaze during the last few minutes of baking for a sweet and savory flavor.
* **Bacon Wrapped:** Wrap the stuffed pork tenderloin in bacon before searing for added flavor and richness.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin ahead of time for easy entertaining. Here are a few options:

* **Prepare the Filling:** The pesto and cheese mixture can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
* **Stuff the Pork:** The pork tenderloin can be stuffed and rolled up to 24 hours in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before searing and baking.
* **Sear the Pork:** The pork can be seared up to 4 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bake it just before serving.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Leftover Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freeze:** For longer storage, freeze the cooked pork tenderloin in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

## Reheating Instructions

* **Oven:** Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliced pork tenderloin in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
* **Microwave:** Place the sliced pork tenderloin on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
* **Skillet:** Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil or butter. Add the sliced pork tenderloin and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until heated through.

## Nutrition Information (Approximate)

* **Serving Size:** 1 slice (about 4 ounces)
* **Calories:** 350-450
* **Protein:** 30-40 grams
* **Fat:** 20-30 grams
* **Carbohydrates:** 5-10 grams

*Note: Nutrition information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

## Conclusion

This Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin is a truly remarkable dish that offers a symphony of flavors and a visually appealing presentation. Its relative ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks looking to impress. The versatility of the recipe allows for personal customization, catering to individual tastes and preferences. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party or simply seeking to elevate a weeknight meal, this stuffed pork tenderloin is guaranteed to deliver a memorable culinary experience.

So, gather your ingredients, follow our detailed instructions, and prepare to embark on a flavorful journey that will leave you and your guests thoroughly satisfied. Enjoy the harmonious blend of savory pork, aromatic pesto, and melted cheese in every delightful bite!

## Recipe Card

**Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin**

A flavorful and impressive dish featuring pork tenderloin stuffed with pesto and cheese.

**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 30 minutes
**Total Time:** 50 minutes

**Servings:** 4-6

**Ingredients:**

* 1.5 – 2 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed
* 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
* Optional: Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
* Optional: Toothpicks or kitchen twine

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butterfly the pork tenderloin, pound to even thickness, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread pesto and cheese mixture evenly over the inside of the pork.
4. Roll up the pork tightly and secure with toothpicks or twine.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Sear the pork on all sides until golden brown.
7. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
8. Transfer to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
9. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
10. Remove toothpicks or twine, slice, and serve.

**Notes:**

* Adjust the amount of pesto and cheese to your liking.
* Experiment with different types of cheese and vegetables.
* Don’t overcook the pork.
* Let the pork rest after cooking for best results.

Enjoy your delicious Pesto and Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin!