Pork Tenderloin Medallions with Pan Sauce are a weeknight lifesaver for busy weeknights. This incredibly quick and easy recipe creates perfectly cooked, juicy pork tenderloin medallions in just minutes.
If you purchased a marinated pork tenderloin than you can skip marinating. A simple marinade of Italian salad dressing, Soy sauce, or any BBQ sauce for about 15 minutes is all that is needed if you want to marinate a plain pork tenderloin.
marinade
Pat the pork tenderloin(s) dry with paper towels. If desired, trim any excess fat from the sides. Cut the pork tenderloin into 1-inch thick medallions.
16 oz pork tenderloin
Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and swirl to coat.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Sear the pork for 2-3 minutes, seasoning the top before flipping over with your favorite seasoning blend, or simply salt and pepper.
seasoning salt, black pepper
While searing, slice the onion into rings.
1 large yellow onion
Flip the pork medallions over to the uncooked side, seasoning again with salt and pepper.
Add the onions rings so they can cook while the medallions sear. Allow for another 2-3 minutes for the pork, or until golden brown and cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 145°F).
Transfer the cooked pork tenderloin medallions and cooked onions to a plate and tent with foil to let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use a Hot Pan: A hot cast iron skillet is essential for achieving a nice sear on the pork tenderloin.
Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the pork tenderloin medallions in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and lead to steamed rather than seared meat.
Don't Overcook: Pork tenderloin dries out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for perfectly cooked, juicy pork.
Let it Rest: Letting the cooked pork rest for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful piece of meat.