Mushroom-Stuffed Tenderloin
A savory stuffed tenderloin featuring mushrooms, bacon, and Parmesan, perfect for special occasions or a impressive dinner that combines rich flavors and elegant presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Remove, crumble, and set aside. Drain, reserving 1 tablespoon of drippings.
- In the drippings, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender. Remove from heat.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of bread crumbs, parsley, and bacon.
- Cut a slit lengthwise 3/4 of the way through the tenderloin to create a pocket.
- Lightly stuff the mushroom mixture into the pocket. Close with toothpicks.
- Combine melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Spread over top and sides of the meat.
- Press remaining bread crumbs onto the butter mixture.
- Place the meat on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 15 minutes, then cover and bake for an additional hour or until desired doneness.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the mushroom mixture while sautéing. You can substitute pancetta for bacon or use a mix of wild mushrooms for added depth. If you're short on time, pre-made bread crumbs can save you some effort. This dish pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the tenderloin into medallions for an elegant presentation. Serve it with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a complete meal. A glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully. For a comforting option, browse more American recipes that include hearty sides.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the tenderloin in a preheated oven at 325°F until warmed through, which helps retain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mushroom-Stuffed Tenderloin contains roughly 411 calories, with 28g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (106% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tenderloin a day in advance. Just assemble it and store it in the refrigerator, covered. When you're ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the mushrooms?
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, finely chopped spinach or cooked artichoke hearts can be excellent substitutes. Just ensure to sauté them similarly to remove excess moisture before mixing them with the other ingredients.
How can I tell when the tenderloin is done?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F, and for medium, 145°F. Let the meat rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).