Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, impressive meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This stuffed pork fillet wrapped in bacon recipe is your answer. It's a showstopper dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. This healthy meal is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, making it a perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 (1.5-2 lb) pork tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
- 4 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors. This homemade cooking element elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.
Step 2: Stuff the Pork Tenderloin
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the pork tenderloin lengthwise, almost all the way through, creating a pocket. Be cautious not to cut all the way through, or the stuffing might fall out. Open the pocket and gently stuff it with the sun-dried tomato and feta mixture.
Step 3: Wrap in Bacon
Wrap the stuffed pork tenderloin tightly with the bacon halves, securing them with toothpicks if necessary. This helps keep the bacon in place and ensures even cooking.
Step 4: Sear and Bake
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin on all sides until the bacon is lightly browned and the pork is seared. This step adds a beautiful crust and enhances the overall flavor. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
Step 5: Roast to Perfection
Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the pork registers 145°F (63°C). This ensures the pork is cooked through and juicy. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Tips for Delicious Stuffed Pork:
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork tenderloin for a few hours before stuffing.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing. This ensures even browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to the safe internal temperature. This is crucial for food safety.
Variations:
- Substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese or ricotta cheese.
- Add other herbs such as thyme or oregano to the filling.
- Use different dried tomatoes, such as those packed in oil with herbs and spices.
- Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7g
This delicious and easy-to-make stuffed pork fillet recipe is a wonderful addition to your repertoire of best recipes. Enjoy this flavorful and impressive dish, perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste.