Honey Garlic Crispy Pork Tenderloin over Creamy Mac & Cheese

Indulge in a symphony of flavors with our Honey Garlic Crispy Pork Tenderloin served atop a bed of Creamy Mac & Cheese. This dish marries the succulent crunch of seasoned pork with the velvety richness of classic macaroni and cheese, all elevated by a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Crispy Pork Tenderloin:

• 1 pound pork tenderloin
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon cornstarch
• ¼ cup water

For the Creamy Mac & Cheese:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Crispy Pork Tenderloin:

1. Slice and Tenderize: Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Slice into 1½-inch thick medallions. Place each piece between plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet to about ½-inch thickness.
2. Set Up Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the Pork: Dip each pork piece into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coat.
4. Fry Until Golden: In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, fry the breaded pork pieces in batches, 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Crafting the Honey Garlic Sauce:

1. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and minced garlic.
2. Thicken the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water and cornstarch, stirring until dissolved. Pour in the honey mixture and bring to a simmer, stirring continuously until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

Creating the Creamy Mac & Cheese:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, approximately 5 minutes.
3. Add the Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated.

Bringing It All Together:

1. Assemble the Dish: Spoon generous portions of creamy mac & cheese onto serving plates. Arrange crispy pork tenderloin pieces on top.
2. Drizzle the Sauce: Generously drizzle the honey garlic sauce over the pork and mac & cheese.
3. Garnish and Serve: For an added touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Substitutions and Alternatives

• Pasta Options: While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use other pasta shapes like cavatappi or penne.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake the pork instead of frying?

Yes, for a healthier alternative, preheat the oven to 400°F. Place breaded pork pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with cooking oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or a fresh garden salad, complement the richness of this dish.

Can I prepare components in advance?

Absolutely. The honey garlic sauce can be made a day ahead