Few dishes are as impressive yet surprisingly simple as Pepper-Stuffed Pork Tenderloin. This recipe takes a lean, tender cut of pork and transforms it into a juicy, flavor-packed masterpiece with a vibrant filling of roasted peppers, cheese, and herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or a gourmet weeknight meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:
- Why pork tenderloin is the perfect cut for stuffing
- Step-by-step instructions for preparing and rolling the tenderloin
- Delicious stuffing variations to suit your taste
- Expert tips for achieving a perfectly cooked, juicy result
- Serving suggestions and wine pairings
Why Pork Tenderloin?
Pork tenderloin is one of the most versatile and forgiving cuts of meat:
- Naturally tender – Doesn’t require long marinating or braising
- Lean but juicy – When cooked properly, it stays moist
- Mild flavor – Pairs well with bold stuffings and sauces
- Quick-cooking – Ready in under an hour
Classic Roasted Pepper & Cheese-Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients
For the Pork:
- 1 (1.5-2 lb) pork tenderloin, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
For the Stuffing:
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, drained and patted dry
- ½ cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ½ cup goat cheese or cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pan Sauce (Optional):
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Tenderloin
- Butterfly the pork: Place tenderloin on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, make a lengthwise cut down the center, stopping about ½ inch from the bottom. Open like a book.
- Pound to even thickness: Cover with plastic wrap and gently pound to ¼-½ inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
2. Make the Stuffing
- In a bowl, mix goat cheese, roasted peppers, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
3. Stuff and Roll
- Spread stuffing mixture evenly over the pork, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Carefully roll up lengthwise, starting from the long side.
- Secure with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals or use toothpicks.
4. Season and Sear
- Rub outside with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs.
- Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides (2-3 minutes per side) until golden brown.
5. Roast to Perfection
- Transfer skillet to a 375°F (190°C) oven.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Make the Pan Sauce (Optional)
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth and balsamic vinegar. Simmer 3-4 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Swirl in butter for richness.
5 Delicious Stuffing Variations
- Mediterranean: Feta, olives, artichokes, and oregano
- Apple & Sage: Sautéed apples, caramelized onions, and sage
- Southwest: Pepper jack cheese, corn, black beans, and chipotle
- Mushroom & Gruyère: Sautéed mushrooms, shallots, and Gruyère
- Prosciutto & Mozzarella: Thinly sliced prosciutto with fresh mozzarella
Expert Tips for Success
✔ Use a meat thermometer – Prevents overcooking
✔ Let it rest – Ensures juices redistribute
✔ Chill before slicing – Helps stuffing stay intact
✔ Butterfly evenly – Creates uniform cooking
Serving Suggestions
🍷 Wine Pairings: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, or Rosé
🥗 Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp salad
🍞 Bread: Crusty baguette to soak up pan sauce
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Prep ahead: Stuff and roll 1 day in advance (store refrigerated).
- Leftovers: Store sliced pork in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in oven at 300°F (150°C) to prevent drying.
Why This Recipe Works
This Pepper-Stuffed Pork Tenderloin is:
✅ Elegant enough for company
✅ Simple enough for weeknights
✅ Endlessly customizable
✅ Lean yet full of flavor
Final Thoughts
With its beautiful presentation and explosion of flavors, this stuffed pork tenderloin is guaranteed to impress. The combination of sweet roasted peppers, creamy cheese, and juicy pork creates a dish that feels gourmet without requiring advanced skills.
Try it tonight and watch it become a new favorite!