Description
Remember when you thought cooking pork meant dry, flavorless hockey pucks? Yeah, we’re throwing that trauma right out the window. These Balsamic Roasted Pork Skillet Nuggets are here to restore your faith in pork — and honestly, in your own cooking skills. We’re talking tender, juicy medallions of pork tenderloin bathed in a glossy, sweet-tangy balsamic glaze that’ll make you look like you went to culinary school. The best part? It’s all done in one skillet in about 30 minutes. This is the kind of dish that makes people think you’re way fancier than you actually are, and I’m totally here for that energy.
Ingredients
For the Pork:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1.5–2 lbs total), sliced into 1-inch medallions
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
For the Balsamic Magic:
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar (don’t use the super cheap stuff)
- 3 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
For Finishing:
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Flaky sea salt
- Extra balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Pork Pat those pork medallions dry with paper towels — this is crucial for getting that gorgeous sear. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Get That Golden Sear Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s shimmering, add the pork medallions. Don’t crowd them — work in batches if needed. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and caramelized. Remove to a plate and don’t panic if they’re not fully cooked through yet.
Step 3: Make the Glaze In the same pan (don’t clean it — those brown bits are flavor gold), add butter and let it melt. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Let it bubble and reduce for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Bring It All Together Return the pork to the skillet and nestle it into that gorgeous glaze. Reduce heat to medium-low and let everything simmer together for 5-7 minutes, flipping the pork once, until it’s cooked through (internal temp of 145°F) and the glaze is thick and glossy.
Step 5: Make It Instagram-Worthy Remove from heat, garnish with fresh rosemary, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Drizzle any extra glaze over the top because we’re not about that shy life.
Notes
These beauties pair perfectly with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans
- Wild rice pilaf or herbed couscous
- A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Your fanciest dinner plates and maybe a glass of Pinot Noir
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~285
- Protein: ~35g