Best Ever Pork Tenderloin With Dijon Cream Sauce

If you’re looking for a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth pork tenderloin, this is it! The tender pork paired with a rich, tangy Dijon cream sauce is a flavor combination you won’t forget.

I love making this dish for dinner because it’s super easy, but tastes like something you’d get at a fancy restaurant. The creamy sauce adds just the right amount of kick to the perfectly cooked pork. Let me show you how to make this unforgettable meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Reader Favorite: As one reader said, “I have never tasted pork so tender! This recipe is an absolute winner.”
• Succulent & Flavorful: With a simple yet potent marinade of Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and spices, this pork tenderloin is infused with rich flavor while keeping the meat tender.
• Perfectly Cooked: No more dry pork! The method of searing the tenderloin and then finishing it in the oven ensures a juicy, tender interior with a crispy, caramelized crust.
• Quick to Make: From prep to plate, this dish is easy to make and requires minimal active time.
• Versatile: This recipe is perfect for both casual meals and elegant dinner parties, serving as the perfect centerpiece for any gathering.
• Comforting and Creamy Sauce: The Dijon cream sauce is rich, creamy, and perfectly tangy, providing the ideal contrast to the savory pork.

Required Kitchen Tools

To prepare this recipe, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Large Skillet or Oven-Safe Pan: For searing and finishing the pork in the oven.
• Tongs: To flip the pork tenderloin and avoid piercing it (which lets out valuable juices).
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure the pork is cooked to the ideal internal temperature.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the marinade ingredients.
• Whisk: To stir the Dijon cream sauce to achieve the perfect consistency.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping the pork and garlic.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

For the Pork Tenderloin:

• 2 Pork Tenderloins (Trimmed): Make sure the pork is cleaned of any silverskin or excess fat for the best texture.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the pork and bringing out its natural flavors.
• Dried Oregano: Adds a touch of herbaceousness that complements the Dijon mustard and spices.
• Dried Crushed Rosemary: A warm, aromatic herb that infuses the pork with a woodsy flavor.
• Dried Thyme: Earthy and slightly floral, thyme pairs wonderfully with the pork and enhances the other herbs.
• Onion Powder: For a subtle depth of flavor that melds with the other spices.
• Ground Cumin: Adds a touch of smokiness and warmth, rounding out the seasoning mix.
• Olive Oil (divided): For searing the pork and adding a bit of moisture.
• Whole Grain Dijon Mustard: This creates the base for the marinade and the creamy sauce, giving it a delightful tang and texture.
• Pure Maple Syrup: Adds a sweet contrast to the tangy mustard and the savory herbs.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Brings umami depth and complexity to the marinade.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: A little bit of saltiness with a savory umami punch helps balance the sweetness of the maple syrup.

For the Dijon Cream Sauce:

• Unsalted Butter: Rich and creamy, it creates a velvety base for the sauce.
• Garlic (Minced or Pressed): Fresh garlic adds a pungent, aromatic flavor to the sauce.
• Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice: A touch of acidity from lemon brightens up the cream sauce, balancing its richness.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: The base of the creamy sauce, it adds smoothness and richness.
• Whole Grain Dijon Mustard: The same mustard used for the marinade, it gives the sauce its signature flavor.
• Dried Thyme: For a subtle, herby flavor that ties the sauce to the pork.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the sauce to perfection.
• Water (as needed): To thin the sauce to your desired consistency if it becomes too thick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Marinade

Start by making the marinade for the pork tenderloin. In a small bowl, whisk together the whole grain Dijon mustard, pure maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, low-sodium soy sauce, dried oregano, rosemary, thyme, onion powder, ground cumin, and olive oil. Once everything is well combined, season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

2. Marinate the Pork

Place your trimmed pork tenderloins in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork and toss to coat evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours. The longer the pork marinates, the more flavor it will absorb, so if you have time, marinate it overnight for maximum impact.

3. Sear the Pork Tenderloin

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add about 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated pork tenderloins to the skillet. Sear the pork on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until it develops a nice golden-brown crust. This step locks in all the flavors and juices.

4. Roast the Pork

Once the pork has been seared on all sides, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the pork tenderloins for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. This will ensure the pork is perfectly cooked, juicy, and tender. Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

5. Make the Dijon Cream Sauce

While the pork is roasting, it’s time to prepare the creamy Dijon sauce. In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Next, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir to combine. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the cream reduce slightly for 3-5 minutes until it thickens. Stir in the whole grain Dijon mustard and dried thyme, and season the sauce with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat.

6. Serve the Pork Tenderloin

Slice the rested pork tenderloin into medallions and serve it with a generous drizzle of the creamy Dijon sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The rich, tangy sauce complements the tender, perfectly cooked pork, creating a harmonious and mouthwatering dish.

How to Serve Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce

• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair the pork with roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes for a hearty meal.
• With Mashed Potatoes: The Dijon cream sauce is perfect when poured over creamy mashed potatoes—perfect for soaking up every last drop.
• On a Bed of Greens: Serve the pork over fresh greens like arugula or spinach for a lighter, refreshing option.
• With Pasta: Toss the sliced pork and Dijon sauce with pasta for a comforting and satisfying dish.

Variations for Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce

This pork tenderloin recipe is fantastic on its own, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with these variations to add your own personal touch or adjust to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a different flavor profile or a way to make it lighter, there’s an option here for everyone.

1. Add Fresh Herbs

• Herbaceous Touch: Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs can be added to the marinade or the Dijon cream sauce for a brighter, more fragrant flavor. These herbs will infuse the pork as it cooks, adding a fresh twist to the dish.

2. Make It Spicy

• Spice It Up: If you love a little heat, you can add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for an added kick. You can also stir in a little bit of Dijon mustard with extra horseradish to give the sauce more of a zesty punch.
• Sriracha Option: For those who like it hot, a dash of Sriracha or another hot sauce can be added directly into the cream sauce to elevate the flavor and give it a spicy, tangy twist.

3. Switch the Maple Syrup

• Honey or Agave: If you’re not a fan of maple syrup, you can easily swap it for honey or agave syrup. Both options will add the necessary sweetness to balance out the tanginess of the mustard while creating a slightly different flavor profile.
• Brown Sugar: For a deeper sweetness and a touch of caramel flavor, use brown sugar instead of maple syrup. It will give the pork a nice glaze while roasting and enrich the flavors of the marinade.

4. Add Fruit

• Fruit Glaze: If you prefer a more fruity sauce, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or even orange juice to the cream sauce. This will lend the sauce a fresh, fruity tartness that pairs beautifully with the pork.
• Apple Slices: Serve the pork with sautéed apples in a little butter and brown sugar. The sweetness of the apples complements the savory, tangy Dijon sauce perfectly.
• Pineapple Salsa: For a tropical flair, a pineapple salsa on the side would add some freshness and sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory pork.

5. Make it a One-Pan Meal

• Add Vegetables to the Skillet: To simplify cleanup, you can add vegetables to the same skillet while the pork is roasting. Potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts roast beautifully alongside the pork and soak up some of the savory flavors from the pan.
• Use Baby Potatoes: For a quick and easy meal, toss halved baby potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the same pan as the pork. The potatoes will pick up all the flavors from the pork drippings and create a simple yet delicious side.

6. Go Low-Carb

• Cauliflower Mash: If you’re on a low-carb diet, cauliflower mash makes an excellent substitute for mashed potatoes. It’s creamy and flavorful, and when paired with the Dijon cream sauce, it’s hard to tell the difference!
• Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter, gluten-free option, zucchini noodles (zoodles) are a great alternative to pasta. Sauté them lightly in olive oil and serve them under the pork for a fresh, low-carb dish.

Tips for Perfect Pork Tenderloin

To make sure your pork tenderloin comes out tender, juicy, and full of flavor every time, here are a few essential tips:

1. Don’t Skip the Searing

• Searing the pork tenderloin before roasting helps to lock in the juices and adds that beautiful golden-brown crust. It’s a step that really takes the flavor to the next level, so don’t skip it!

2. Use a Meat Thermometer

• A meat thermometer is your best friend when it comes to cooking pork. The perfect internal temperature for pork tenderloin is 145°F (63°C). After reaching this temperature, let the pork rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays moist and tender.

3. Rest the Meat

• Resting the pork after cooking is crucial for keeping it juicy. If you cut into the pork immediately, the juices will run out, leaving you with dry meat. Let the pork tenderloin rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to keep it moist and flavorful.

4. Don’t Overcook

• Pork tenderloin is naturally tender and needs only a short cooking time to remain juicy. If you overcook it, it will become dry and tough. Stick to the recommended cooking time and use a meat thermometer to check doneness.

5. Make a Double Batch of the Dijon Cream Sauce

• If you love sauce (and who doesn’t?), you might want to make extra Dijon cream sauce. It’s the perfect topping for the pork, but you can also drizzle it over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even use it as a dip for bread. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), here’s how to store them properly:

1. Cooked Pork Tenderloin

• Storage: Allow the cooked pork to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. The pork can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a little bit of olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
• Freezing: Pork tenderloin can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Slice it before freezing to make it easier to reheat in portions. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

2. Dijon Cream Sauce

• Storage: The cream sauce should also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it thickens too much after refrigeration, simply add a splash of water or cream to thin it out when reheating.
• Freezing: Cream sauces can sometimes separate when frozen, but if you don’t mind a slight change in texture, you can freeze the sauce for up to 1 month. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring constantly.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for each serving of the pork tenderloin with Dijon cream sauce (based on a 4-serving recipe):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Protein	45g
Fat	24g
Carbohydrates	9g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	6g
Sodium	480mg

Conclusion

This Best Ever Pork Tenderloin With Dijon Cream Sauce is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With its rich flavors, succulent texture, and versatile sauce, it’s a dish that will satisfy your taste buds every time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe will always shine. The marinade brings out the best in the pork, and the creamy mustard sauce adds a luxurious finish that’s hard to beat.

Don’t forget to try out some of the variations and tips to make this recipe your own, and enjoy the tender, juicy pork with every bite!

How to Serve Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce

Once your pork tenderloin is cooked and ready to go, it’s time to think about how to serve this delightful dish. With its rich flavor and creamy sauce, there are plenty of ways to enjoy it. Here are some serving suggestions that will complement the tender pork and elevate the entire meal:

1. Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Classic Pairing: Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes make a hearty, flavorful side dish. The caramelized edges of the veggies pair beautifully with the savory richness of the pork and the Dijon cream sauce.
• Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: If you’re a fan of mashed potatoes, roasted garlic mashed potatoes are an excellent option. The garlic adds an extra layer of depth to the potatoes, and the creaminess complements the Dijon sauce perfectly.

2. Serve with Rice or Grains

• Herbed Rice: A side of simple, herbed rice—seasoned with thyme, rosemary, or parsley—can act as a nice base for the pork. The rice will soak up some of the delicious sauce, making each bite a little bit of heaven.
• Quinoa or Farro: For a more nutty flavor, try serving the pork with quinoa or farro. These ancient grains have a lovely texture and are a great, healthy option that pairs wonderfully with the Dijon cream sauce.

3. In a Sandwich or Wrap

• Pork Tenderloin Sandwich: For a more casual meal, slice the pork thinly and serve it in a sandwich or wrap. Add some fresh greens, like arugula or spinach, and a smear of Dijon mustard for a delicious handheld meal.
• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: If you’re looking for a great side that feels a little more indulgent, crispy sweet potato fries pair perfectly with the Dijon cream sauce. The sweetness of the fries contrasts with the rich pork, creating a balance that’s just irresistible.

4. Serve with a Salad

• Fresh Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the pork and provide a nice balance.
• Warm Salad with Roasted Veggies: You can also serve the pork with a warm salad, like roasted beets and kale, which can absorb the flavors of the sauce and create a nourishing, well-rounded meal.

5. With Pasta

• Creamy Pasta: If you’re in the mood for pasta, a creamy pasta dish makes a perfect pairing with the pork. You can use the same Dijon cream sauce to toss with pasta like fettuccine or pappardelle, then serve the sliced pork on top for a comforting meal.
• Pasta with Spinach and Garlic: For a lighter option, serve the pork alongside a simple pasta dish made with spinach, garlic, and olive oil. The bitterness of the spinach contrasts well with the richness of the pork.

Leftovers and Meal Prep Tips

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely with a dish this delicious!), here are some tips on how to store and repurpose them:

1. How to Store Leftovers

• In the Fridge: Once your pork tenderloin has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. Leftover pork can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Dijon Cream Sauce: If you have leftover sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You may need to add a bit of water or cream to thin it out when reheating.

2. Reheating Leftovers

• Reheat Gently: To reheat the pork without drying it out, wrap it in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the pork slices. Alternatively, you can warm it gently on the stovetop with a little olive oil or butter in a skillet.
• Reheat the Sauce: Warm up the Dijon cream sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a small splash of water, stock, or cream to bring it back to the desired consistency.

3. Make-ahead Tips

• Prep in Advance: You can prepare the pork tenderloin and marinade a day ahead. Simply cover the pork with the marinade and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to cook, all you have to do is roast the pork and prepare the cream sauce.
• Meal Prep Idea: For meal prep, cook a large batch of pork tenderloin and serve it with various sides like quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. This will keep your meals exciting throughout the week and make lunch or dinner quick and easy.

Nutrition Information (continued)

If you’re keeping track of your nutritional intake, here’s a breakdown of the nutrition for the Best Ever Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce. This information is approximate and based on a 4-serving recipe:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420
Protein	45g
Fat	24g
Carbohydrates	9g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	6g
Sodium	480mg

Conclusion

This Best Ever Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce is an absolute winner in the kitchen. With its flavorful marinade and luxurious cream sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, the tender, juicy pork with its tangy, creamy sauce will leave everyone asking for the recipe.

The versatility of this dish means you can switch up the sides and variations to suit your taste preferences. Plus, it’s easy to store and reheat, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Don’t forget to experiment with the different flavor variations to make it your own. Once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it a regular in your culinary repertoire!

Conclusion

The Best Ever Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the moment you rub the flavorful marinade on the tenderloin to the final bite drenched in creamy Dijon sauce, this dish is a surefire way to impress anyone at your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or looking to elevate a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on both flavor and sophistication.

The tender, juicy pork, combined with the richness of the Dijon cream sauce, offers a delightful contrast that will leave everyone asking for seconds. What makes this recipe even better is its versatility—you can pair it with virtually any side, from roasted vegetables and potatoes to grains like quinoa and rice, making it easy to adapt to your tastes.

Plus, the ability to marinate the pork ahead of time or prep leftovers for easy meals throughout the week ensures you won’t be spending all day in the kitchen. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to wow your guests with minimal effort.

Once you try this recipe, I’m confident it will become a regular part of your rotation. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this flavor-packed dish—you won’t regret it!