Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will transform your dinner table into a gourmet Italian restaurant! This show-stopping recipe combines perfectly seared, juicy pork tenderloin with a luxurious three-cheese gnocchi that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this dish promises an explosion of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin
- 1 package of gnocchi
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Remove pork tenderloin from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. Pat dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side, creating a golden-brown crust. Ensure all sides are evenly browned.
- Transfer the skillet with pork tenderloin directly into the preheated oven. Roast for 15-18 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- While pork is roasting, prepare the three-cheese gnocchi. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook gnocchi according to package instructions, typically 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- In a separate bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. Gently fold the drained gnocchi into the cheese mixture.
- Once pork reaches desired temperature, remove from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice pork tenderloin diagonally into 1/2-inch thick medallions.
- Plate the three-cheese gnocchi and arrange pork medallions on top. If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust cheese sauce consistency.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an additional sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork tenderloin rest at room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Searing Secrets: Use a heavy, oven-safe skillet and get it smoking hot before searing to create a beautiful golden-brown crust on the pork.
- Meat Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. 145°F is perfect for a juicy, slightly pink center.
- Cheese Sauce Trick: Reserve some pasta water to help create a silky, smooth cheese sauce for the gnocchi if it becomes too thick.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh basil for garnishing - it adds a bright, aromatic finish that elevates the entire dish.
- Timing is Crucial: Time your gnocchi cooking with the pork's resting period to ensure everything is hot and fresh when served.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 453kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 37g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 103mg
