Are you a fan of juicy and tender pork medallions?
Do you often find yourself buying whole tenderloins from Costco but unsure of how to cook them to perfection?
Look no further!
In this article, we will guide you through the steps of cooking pork tenderloin medallions from Costco.
Whether you prefer them grilled, pan-seared, or air-fried, we’ve got you covered.
Plus, we’ll share some tips and tricks to ensure your medallions come out juicy and delicious every time.
So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
How To Cook Pork Tenderloin Medallions From Costco?
There are several ways to cook pork tenderloin medallions from Costco, but we’ll focus on three popular methods: grilling, pan-searing, and air-frying.
Choosing The Right Cut Of Pork Tenderloin Medallions From Costco
When it comes to cooking pork tenderloin medallions from Costco, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat. Costco offers a variety of pork tenderloin options, including pre-cut medallions and whole tenderloins that you can slice yourself.
When selecting pre-cut medallions, look for packages that have consistent thickness and size. This will ensure that the medallions cook evenly and are all done at the same time. It’s also important to check for any excess fat or silver skin that may need to be trimmed before cooking.
If you prefer to slice your own medallions from a whole tenderloin, look for a piece of meat that is firm to the touch and has a pinkish-red color. Avoid any tenderloins that have a grayish tint or are slimy to the touch, as this may indicate spoilage.
Regardless of which option you choose, it’s important to handle the meat with care and follow proper food safety guidelines. Always wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with raw meat, and cook the pork to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.
By choosing the right cut of pork tenderloin medallions from Costco and following proper cooking techniques, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please.
Preparing The Pork Tenderloin Medallions For Cooking
Before cooking your pork tenderloin medallions, you’ll need to prepare them properly. Start by trimming any visible fat and silver skin from the tenderloin. Then, cut the tenderloin crosswise into 1-inch-thick medallions. To ensure even cooking, press down on the medallions with your hands to slightly flatten them.
Next, it’s time to season the pork medallions. You can use a simple seasoning of salt and pepper, or get creative and add garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, or any other herbs and spices you prefer. Combine your chosen seasonings in a small bowl, and sprinkle the mixture over both sides of the pork medallions. Gently press down with your hands to help the spices adhere to the meat.
If you’re planning to grill your pork tenderloin medallions, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. For pan-searing, heat a tablespoon of oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. For air-frying, preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
No matter which cooking method you choose, be sure not to overcrowd the pan or grill. Cook the pork medallions in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the meat. Once cooked, remove the pork medallions from the heat source and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
With these simple steps for preparing your pork tenderloin medallions for cooking, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious and juicy meal in no time!
Grilling Pork Tenderloin Medallions To Perfection
Grilling pork tenderloin medallions is a great way to infuse them with robust flavor and achieve a juicy, tender texture. To start, preheat your grill to medium-high with a surface temperature of 450° to 500°. It’s important to note that you should measure the surface temperature, not rely on the thermometer on the grill hood.
Next, trim the pork tenderloin of any trim-able fat and silver-skin. Cut the “tail end” off at 3 inches and cut the remainder into 1 1/2 inch slices. At the halfway mark of the 3-inch “tail” cut through 3/4 of the way and bend over on itself. Compress all pieces to about one inch thick and season to taste. You can use seasoning salt with garlic powder or any other seasoning of your choice.
Place the pork medallions on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes before flipping. Aim for an internal temperature of 140°-145°, which should take a total grill time of about 10-12 minutes. Remember to use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature.
When grilling pork tenderloin medallions, it’s important to keep an eye on them and flip them only once. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough meat. Let the medallions rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Grilled pork tenderloin medallions are perfect for quick and easy weeknight meals or for impressing guests at a dinner party. With a little bit of seasoning and careful grilling, you can achieve juicy, flavorful pork that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Pan-Searing Pork Tenderloin Medallions For A Delicious Crust
Pan-searing pork tenderloin medallions is a great way to achieve a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. To start, slice the pork tenderloin into 1-inch medallions and lightly sprinkle each side with salt and pepper.
Next, warm a large stainless skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the pork to the skillet and let it cook without touching it for 3 minutes. Use a metal spatula to get underneath each medallion and flip them over. Don’t worry if they stick a bit. Cover with a lid and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
Once the pork medallions are cooked through, transfer them to a plate and cover lightly with foil to keep them warm. Place the empty skillet back on the stove over medium heat and add wine to deglaze the pan. Add chicken base and whisk to combine, cooking for about 2 minutes.
In a small cup, whisk cornstarch and paprika into cream until smooth. Add the cream into the saucepan slowly, whisking until combined. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly, about 1 minute.
Finally, pour the mushroom gravy sauce over the pork medallions, sprinkle with parsley, and serve. This recipe is perfect for special occasions like Mother’s Day or as a weeknight dinner homerun with hardly any cleanup! Serve these pork medallions over a bed of mashed potatoes with honey roasted carrots or Parmesan asparagus for a swoon-worthy dinner everyone will love!
Air-Frying Pork Tenderloin Medallions For A Healthier Option
Air-frying pork tenderloin medallions is a great option if you’re looking for a healthier way to cook your meat. With an air fryer, you can cook your pork tenderloin without adding any extra oil, which means less fat and fewer calories. Plus, air-frying is quick and easy, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
To start, remove any excess fat or silver skin from the tenderloin medallions. Then, season them with your favorite spices or seasoning mix. You can use a pre-made seasoning blend or create your own by mixing together salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F / 200°C. Spray the inside of the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent the pork tenderloin medallions from sticking.
Place the seasoned pork tenderloin medallions in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Once cooked, remove the pork tenderloin medallions from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensure that it stays juicy and tender.
Serve your air-fried pork tenderloin medallions with your favorite side dishes. For a healthy and balanced meal, pair them with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips And Tricks For Juicy And Flavorful Pork Tenderloin Medallions
1. Don’t overcook the medallions: Pork tenderloin medallions can dry out quickly if overcooked. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F. Also, be mindful of the thickness of the medallions, as this can affect cooking time.
2. Season well: Pork tenderloin medallions are mild in flavor, so it’s important to season them well to enhance their taste. A simple seasoning blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like thyme or rosemary is a great starting point.
3. Use a hot pan: When pan-searing pork tenderloin medallions, use a hot skillet with a little bit of oil to create a golden crust on the outside. A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best.
4. Let the meat rest: After cooking, let the pork tenderloin medallions rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and juicy final product.
5. Experiment with marinades: Pork tenderloin medallions are a great canvas for marinades, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors. A simple marinade of soy sauce, honey, and garlic can add a sweet and savory twist to your dish.
6. Pair with complementary sides: Pork tenderloin medallions pair well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Consider incorporating complementary flavors and textures to create a well-rounded meal.