Delicious, juicy pork tenderloin can be cooked quickly and easily on a stovetop. Try this step-by-step guide for juicy results every time! – See Our Recipe Card Below
Cooking pork tenderloin on the stovetop is a great option for anyone preparing a delicious and easy meal.
Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat that is incredibly tender and flavorful.
It can be cooked on the stovetop using various techniques such as pan-searing, roasting, or braising, giving you a moist and flavorful piece of meat.
This blog post will discuss cooking pork tenderloin on the stovetop and provide tips for perfecting each technique, plus you can see how much pork tenderloin to serve per guest.
What is Pork Tenderloin?
Pork tenderloin is a cut of pork from the pig’s loin section. It is a long, narrow meat with very little fat and only one short muscle, making it incredibly tender. The leanness makes it great for quick-cooking methods, such as pan-searing or roasting in the oven, but you can also braise it for longer cooking times.
How to Cook Pork Tenderloin on Stovetop
Pan Searing
Pan-searing is the easiest and quickest way to cook pork tenderloin on the stovetop.
Heat a heavy skillet with olive oil (vegetable oil) or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned.
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
When the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, remove it from the skillet and rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Roasting
Heat a skillet with oil or butter over medium-high heat to roast pork tenderloin on the stovetop.
Add the pork tenderloin, patted and dried with paper towels, and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned.
Transfer the skillet to an oven preheated to 350°F. Roast the pork for 15-20 minutes, depending on how well done you prefer it, flipping it halfway through. When it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, remove it from the oven and rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Braising
Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat with oil or butter to braise pork tenderloin on the stovetop.
Add the pork tenderloin and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned. Add a cup of liquid, such as broth or water, to the bottom of the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the pork tenderloin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. When done, remove from the heat and allow to rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Why Stovetop Pork Tenderloin?
Cooking pork tenderloin on the stovetop is a great option for anyone looking to prepare a delicious and easy meal.
The cooking time is minimal, meaning you can have dinner ready quickly. Furthermore, cleaning up is incredibly easy since you only need one pan or pot.
Can Pork Tenderloin Be Pink in the Middle?
Yes, pork tenderloin can be pink in the middle. According to the USDA, pork is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
This temperature is measured using a meat thermometer and is the same for pork tenderloin, pork chops, and pork roasts.
It’s important to note that the color of cooked pork can vary from pink to white, depending on the cooking method and the animal’s age.
As long as the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F, it is safe to eat.
How Do I Know My Pork Tenderloin Is Cooked?
The best way to know if your pork tenderloin is cooked is by using a meat thermometer.
Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat to get an accurate reading. The internal temperature of pork tenderloin should reach 145°F for it to be safe to eat.
Another way to tell if pork tenderloin is cooked is by checking the color of the meat. The meat should be white or slightly pink in the middle, not translucent or bloody.
Pork Tenderloin Cooked On a Stovetop
Equipment
- 1 skillet Wok or Frypan
- 1 tongs or wooden spoon for stirring
Ingredients
- 2 lb pork tenderloin
- ¾ tsp salt
- â…” tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Slice your pork tenderloin into strips ( choose your preferred thickness
- Season the medallions to taste with salt and pepper.
- I like to mix a little soy sauce with a rich BBQ sauce and let the sliced pork sit in for an hour. But you can also use a simple chili and lime sauce to produce a flavorsome one-pot dish also.
- Heat a pan with a medium-high heat and add the meat tenderloin slices, cooking just a few minutes on both sides.
- Cook for about 3 to 6 minutes depending on how much pork tenderloin you are making - Get it to at least 145FUse a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking.
- You can also add a sauce or glaze to the pork tenderloin while cooking.Experiment with different spices and seasonings to create unique flavors.
- Pork tenderloin can be cooked in a cast-iron or stainless steel pan.Don't overcrowd the pan, as it can prevent the tenderloin from searing properly
Notes
- Pork tenderloin pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
- A well-cooked pork tenderloin should be slightly pink in the center.
- Pork tenderloin is a lean and healthy protein that can be a great addition to any meal.
- Don't overcrowd the pan, as it can prevent the tenderloin from searing properly.
Nutrition
Pork Tenderloin Nutrition Facts
Pork tenderloin is a lean source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. A 3-ounce serving of cooked pork tenderloin contains about 22 grams of protein, 1 gram of fat, and 120 calories.
Pork tenderloin is also a good source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, vitamin B12, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium.
FAQs
How Long Does it Take To Cook Pork on the Stove?
The cooking time for pork on the stove varies depending on the cut and cooking method. For pork tenderloin, it generally takes up to 10 minutes to cook, depending on the method and thickness of the meat.
Can I Cook Pork Tenderloin on an Electric Stove?
Yes, you can cook pork tenderloin on an electric stove. You can use a heavy-flat bottomed skillet or a cast-iron skillet to sear the meat and finish cooking it in the oven.
Should I Marinate Pork Tenderloin Before Cooking?
Marinating the pork tenderloin before cooking is optional. It can add flavor and tenderness to the meat, but it’s unnecessary; always season it with salt, black pepper, and a teaspoon of garlic powder(optional). If you marinate, do it for at least an hour or overnight.
How Long Should I Let the Pork Tenderloin Rest After Cooking?
After cooking, let the pork tenderloin rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and juicy meat.
Can I Cook Pork Tenderloin Without Oil?
Technically, you can cook pork tenderloin without oil, but it’s not recommended. Adding a small amount of oil to the pan helps prevent the meat from sticking and adds flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftover Cooked Pork Tenderloin?
Yes, you can freeze leftover cooked pork tenderloin. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag and label it with the date. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Cooking pork tenderloin on the stovetop quickly and easily prepares a delicious and nutritious meal. Whether you choose to pan-sear, roast, or braise, there are many techniques to create a moist and flavorful piece of meat.
It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
And with various seasoning and sauce options, you can experiment with different flavors to create a dish your family will love.