Description
Tender, juicy pork tenderloin bites seared to golden perfection and tossed in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce. This quick and easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 20 minutes
Ingredients
Scale
- 1½ pounds pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the pork: Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and cut into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and maximum caramelization. Season the pork pieces generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly.
- Heat the pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil. Allow the butter to melt and the pan to get hot—you should see a shimmer on the surface.
- Sear the pork: Add the seasoned pork bites to the hot skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if needed). Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms on the bottom.
- Continue cooking: Flip the pork bites and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F and have a beautiful golden crust all around. Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine and finish: Return the pork bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce until well coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat.
- Garnish and serve: Stir in fresh lemon juice if using, then sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Don’t overcook: Pork tenderloin is lean and can become tough if overcooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for juicy, tender bites.
- Room temperature meat: Let the pork sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking for more even cooking.
- Single layer is key: Overcrowding the pan creates steam instead of a proper sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Save that sauce: The garlic butter sauce is incredible—make sure to serve extra for drizzling over sides or dipping bread.
- Adjust heat: If your garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat immediately to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 645mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 135mg