As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a bustling hub of festive flavors and traditions. I can’t help but smile at the prospect of serving a savory stuffed pork tenderloin, a dish that delights the senses with the harmonious blend of tangy goat cheese, sweet cranberries, and fragrant sage. This recipe is not only a showstopper that will impress your guests, but it also offers the irresistible perk of being make-ahead friendly—perfect for enjoying more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen worrying. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this stuffed pork tenderloin promises to be a delightful centerpiece at your holiday table. What unique twist will you add to make it your own? Why is Stuffed Pork Tenderloin a Must-Try? Ultimate Showstopper: This stuffed pork tenderloin takes center stage at any holiday gathering, boasting an impressive presentation that will leave your guests in awe. Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy goat cheese, sweet cranberries, and fresh herbs elevates the dish, creating a flavor profile that’s both savory and slightly sweet. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge; your future self will thank you for the extra time to mingle during the festivities! Versatile Substitutions: Feel free to swap out goat cheese for creamy feta, or add nuts like walnuts for an extra crunch. Personalize it to suit your taste! For those seeking more stuffed goodness, don’t miss our delightful recipes for Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies or Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells. Your holiday feast awaits! Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Ingredients • Dive into the delicious details of stuffed pork tenderloin! For the Pork: Pork Tenderloin – Choose fresh, pink ones with marbling for the best texture. For the Stuffing: Goat Cheese – Offers a creamy tang; can substitute with mozzarella or Gruyère for a milder flavor. Cranberry Sauce – Adds a sweet acidity; opt for whole berry sauce for enhanced taste. Fresh Herbs (Sage) – Brings earthy depth; thyme or rosemary are good alternatives if needed. Spinach – Brightens up the dish with color and nutrients; use fresh for best results. Onions – Enhances aroma and sweetness; caramelize before using to avoid watery stuffing. Garlic – Infuses a fragrant kick; fresh garlic is best for optimal flavor. With these carefully selected ingredients, you’re on your way to creating the perfect stuffed pork tenderloin for your holiday feast! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). While it heats, grab a roasting pan and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will ensure your stuffed pork tenderloin has a beautiful golden crust after roasting. Step 2: Caramelize the Onions In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté them for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown. The sweet aroma and rich color signal that they’re ready; set them aside. Step 3: Sauté Spinach and Garlic In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed and toss in the fresh spinach along with minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and vibrant. Once done, combine the cooked spinach with the caramelized onions for a delicious stuffing. Step 4: Butterfly the Pork Tenderloin With a sharp knife, carefully butterfly your pork tenderloin by slicing it lengthwise down the center, ensuring to leave about ½ inch uncut on one side. Open it like a book to create a flat surface that will hold the flavorful stuffing beautifully. Step 5: Season and Fill the Tenderloin Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on the inside of the butterflied pork tenderloin. Spread a generous layer of cranberry sauce across the surface, then add the spinach and onion mixture. Finish off by crumbling goat cheese on top, creating a colorful filling that’s sure to delight. Step 6: Roll and Secure Starting from one end, roll the tenderloin tightly away from you, tucking in the filling as you go. Once fully rolled, secure it with kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep everything intact. Season the exterior of the stuffed pork tenderloin with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor. Step 7: Roast to Perfection Place the rolled tenderloin seam-side down in the preheated roasting pan. Roast for 30-35 minutes, monitoring until the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F (60-63°C). This ensures the pork is cooked through yet juicy, presenting a slight blush in the center. Step 8: Rest and Serve Once removed from the oven, let the stuffed pork tenderloin rest for about 20 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and flavorful. Serve it warm to reveal the stunning spiral of stuffing inside! How to Store and Freeze Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Fridge: Store any leftover stuffed pork tenderloin in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the meat moist and flavors intact for your next meal. Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months—ideal for make-ahead holiday preparations! Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes, for best results. Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the stuffed pork tenderloin up to 24 hours in advance; simply store securely in the fridge before roasting. Expert Tips for Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Resting Time: Allow the stuffed pork tenderloin to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every slice is perfectly juicy. Meat Thermometer Use: Invest in a reliable meat thermometer for accurate cooking. Aim for a slightly pink center at 140-145°F (60-63°C) for ideal tenderness. Butterflying Technique: Start butterflying the pork from the thicker end to create an even surface for stuffing. This makes rolling and cooking more uniform. Avoid Soggy Stuffing: Always caramelize your onions instead of using them raw. This technique enhances sweetness and prevents excess moisture in the stuffing. Flavor Variation: Feel free to customize your stuffing! Swap goat cheese for feta or introduce nuts for added texture in your stuffed pork tenderloin. Prep Ahead: To ease holiday stress, prepare the stuffed pork tenderloin a day in advance. Simply wrap and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve! Make Ahead Options These savory stuffed pork tenderloins are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to savor the holiday season without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the stuffed pork tenderloin up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe through the stuffing step, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, just remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then roast as directed. Your family will be treated to a delicious, hassle-free meal, just as if it were made fresh that day! What to Serve with Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Creating a full holiday meal around your succulent stuffed pork tenderloin can elevate your feast to unforgettable heights. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These provide a rich, buttery base that beautifully balances the savory filling of the tenderloin. Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: The caramelized sweetness of carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes adds color and nutrition to your plate, complementing the dish perfectly. Fresh Spinach Salad: Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette bring a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pork. Add sliced strawberries or nuts for extra texture! Garlic Bread: Crunchy and fragrant, garlic bread serves as a delightful side to mop up those delectable juices from your tenderloin. Cranberry Sauce: Echoing the flavors in your dish, a side of homemade cranberry or a vibrant fruit chutney can add an extra layer of sweetness. Classic Green Bean Almondine: The crisp snap of green beans combined with nuttiness from almonds adds a wonderful crunch and flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender, juicy pork. Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir, enhances the sumptuous flavors of your feast. Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, pumpkin pie with whipped cream captures the essence of the holiday season and rounds out a festive meal beautifully. Dessert Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses, dried fruit, and nuts can serve as an elegant finish to your holiday spread, delighting your guests. Mulled Wine: Serve this warm, spiced drink for a cozy touch, ensuring the celebrations feel extra special. Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Variations Customize your stuffed pork tenderloin for a unique twist that pleases any palate! Cheese Choice: Swap goat cheese for feta or mozzarella for a creamier, milder flavor experience. Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the stuffing for delightful texture and an earthy crunch. Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced apples or pears alongside cranberries for a sweet and fresh burst of flavor. Herbal Infusion: Substitute parsley or rosemary for sage to create a new herbaceous profile that breathes life into your dish. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stuffing for an exciting, spicy surprise that will linger. Vegetarian Option: Replace the pork with portobello mushrooms for a delicious, hearty vegan twist that still fills the plate beautifully. Cranberry Variation: Try using homemade cranberry sauce infused with orange zest for a zesty layer of flavor that will brighten your dish. For more delicious stuffed options, check out our recipes for Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed Donuts or Spinach Feta Stuffed Salmon Pinwheels. Your holiday feast just got even more exciting! Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pork tenderloin? Select fresh, pink pork tenderloins with visible marbling for the best flavor and texture. Look for ones that feel firm to the touch and avoid any that show dark spots or a slimy texture. What’s the best way to store leftover stuffed pork tenderloin? Store leftover stuffed pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before storing to preserve its juiciness and flavor. Can I freeze stuffed pork tenderloin, and how? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the stuffed pork tenderloin tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag. This will help prevent freezer burn. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before roasting. How can I avoid a soggy stuffing? To prevent soggy stuffing, always caramelize your onions beforehand. Cook them over medium-low heat in butter for 30-40 minutes until golden brown. This not only enhances their sweetness but also reduces excess moisture in your stuffing. Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions? Yes! This stuffed pork tenderloin can be modified for various dietary needs. If you’re concerned about dairy, you can use vegan cheese alternatives instead of goat cheese. Just be mindful of cross-contamination if you’re serving guests with allergies, and ensure all ingredients are allergy-friendly. What should I do if my pork tenderloin isn’t cooking evenly? If you notice that your pork tenderloin isn’t cooking evenly, it could be due to uneven thickness. Ensure you butterfly it properly, starting from the thicker end, to create a uniform surface. Using a meat thermometer can help you track the internal temperature, ensuring it cooks consistently throughout. Mouthwatering Stuffed Pork Tenderloin for Your Holiday Feast Delight your guests with this savory stuffed pork tenderloin, featuring tangy goat cheese, cranberries, and sage—a perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsResting Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pork1 pound Pork Tenderloin Choose fresh, pink ones with marbling for the best texture.For the Stuffing5 ounces Goat Cheese Offers a creamy tang; can substitute with mozzarella or Gruyère for a milder flavor.1 cup Cranberry Sauce Adds a sweet acidity; opt for whole berry sauce for enhanced taste.2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (Sage) Brings earthy depth; thyme or rosemary are good alternatives if needed.1 cup Spinach Brightens up the dish with color and nutrients; use fresh for best results.1 medium Onion Enhances aroma and sweetness; caramelize before using to avoid watery stuffing.2 cloves Garlic Infuses a fragrant kick; fresh garlic is best for optimal flavor. Equipment Roasting panLarge skilletsharp knifeKitchen twine or toothpicks Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and spray a roasting pan with nonstick cooking spray.Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet, add chopped onions and caramelize for 30-40 minutes.Sauté fresh spinach with minced garlic until wilted, then combine with caramelized onions.Butterfly the pork tenderloin by slicing it lengthwise, leaving ½ inch uncut.Season the inside with salt and pepper, then layer with cranberry sauce, spinach, onions, and goat cheese.Roll the tenderloin tightly from one end and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks. Season exterior with salt and pepper.Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F (60-63°C).Let it rest for 20 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg NotesCustomize your stuffing by substituting goat cheese with feta or adding nuts for texture. Prepare a day in advance to ease holiday stress. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
