Pork tenderloin in tomato sauce is one of those dishes that effortlessly combines comfort with elegance.
This recipe brings together the tender, juicy richness of pork with the robust, tangy flavour of a well-seasoned tomato sauce.
It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas and turns a simple dinner into a memorable experience.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy night at home, this dish offers a perfect balance of hearty and healthy.
How To Make Pork Tenderloin In Tomato Sauce?
Preparation Times: 15 minutes
Cooking Times: 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Yields: Makes about 4
Equipment Needed
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
For the Pork Tenderloin
- 1 lb (450g) pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Tomato Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step-1. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the pork tenderloin dries with paper towels. Rub it all over with olive oil, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Generously season the pork tenderloin with this spice mixture, pressing it gently to adhere.
Step-2. Sear the Pork
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear it on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Step-3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- While the pork is roasting, heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and add the fresh basil leaves, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
Step-4. Combine and Serve
- Slice the rested pork tenderloin into medallions, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Spoon a generous amount of tomato sauce onto a serving platter, then arrange the pork medallions on top.
- Garnish with the chopped fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness and colour.
- Serve immediately, pairing with your choice of sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Facts Of Pork Tenderloin In Tomato Sauce
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 26g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
Serving Suggestions
Over Pasta: Serve the tenderloin slices over a bed of al dente pasta, like penne or fettuccine, to soak up the rich tomato sauce.
With Mashed Potatoes: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Complement the dish with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts for a balanced plate.
Sandwich: Slice the pork thinly and serve in a crusty baguette or ciabatta roll with extra sauce for a tasty sandwich.
With Rice: Pair with steamed white or brown rice to absorb the flavorful sauce, making it a satisfying dish.
Tips and Variations
Marinating: For added depth of flavour, marinate the pork tenderloin in the spice rub for a few hours before cooking.
Tomatoes: If you prefer a chunkier sauce, use diced tomatoes instead of crushed.
Herbs: Swap out basil for oregano or thyme for a different flavour profile.
Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount or omit it entirely.
Special Notes
Always choose a tenderloin with a light pink colour and a little marbling for the best flavour and tenderness.
FAQS
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato sauce in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. The pork tenderloin is best cooked fresh, but you can sear it ahead of time and finish it in the oven when needed.
What other sides go well with this dish?
Besides mashed potatoes and pasta, you can serve this dish with steamed rice, quinoa, or a light couscous salad.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze the tomato sauce?
Yes, the tomato sauce freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Making pork tenderloin in tomato sauce is a straightforward yet impressive dish that brings the flavours of Italy right to your dinner table.
With its tender pork and rich, savoury tomato sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen. I hope you enjoy preparing and savouring this dish as much as I do!
Pork Tenderloin In Tomato Sauce
Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g pork tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14 oz/400g crushed tomatoes
- 2 fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the pork tenderloin dries with paper towels. Rub it all over with olive oil, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Generously season the pork tenderloin with this spice mixture, pressing it gently to adhere.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear it on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Once seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- While the pork is roasting, heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and add the fresh basil leaves, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Slice the rested pork tenderloin into medallions, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Spoon a generous amount of tomato sauce onto a serving platter, then arrange the pork medallions on top.
- Garnish with the chopped fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness and color.
- Serve immediately, pairing with your choice of sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.
Notes
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.