Quick Answer
Pork tenderloin is a lean and tender cut of meat that’s easy to cook and versatile. Roseland pork tenderloins from Aldi are high-quality and affordable. The main steps to cook an Aldi pork tenderloin are:
- Take the pork tenderloin out of the package and pat it dry. Trim off any excess fat or silver skin.
- Season the pork all over with salt, pepper, and any other spices you want. Popular options are garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, rosemary, etc.
- Sear the tenderloin on all sides in a hot skillet with oil to develop a nice brown crust.
- Finish cooking the pork in a 375°F oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, about 15-25 minutes depending on thickness.
- Let the tenderloin rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
The searing step is optional but adds great flavor. Roseland pork tenderloins are already quite tender so they don’t need long cooking times. Pay attention not to overcook them or the meat will become dry. Serving options include slicing and saucing or cutting into medallions.
Selecting and Preparing the Pork
When selecting a pork tenderloin for cooking, look for packages that feel firm and show no signs of damage or freezer burn. The use-by date should also be checked to ensure freshness. For an Aldi Roseland pork tenderloin that is around 1 pound, expect to pay $4-5 which is very affordable.
Once home, refrigerate the pork if not using immediately and rinse just before cooking. Pat the tenderloin dry with paper towels and trim off any external fat or silver skin which can cause the meat to curl when cooking. The tenderloin may be left whole or cut into smaller medallions if desired. Cutting small slits into the meat can help it cook more evenly.
Season the pork well with salt, pepper, and any other dry spices or herb rubs. Let the seasoned meat rest for 15-30 minutes before cooking for the flavors to penetrate. Popular seasoning options include:
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Dried oregano
- Dried thyme
- Rosemary
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Brown sugar
- Cayenne pepper
You can get creative and use any combination of herbs and spices that complement pork. A simple salt, pepper and garlic powder seasoning will also do the trick.
Searing and Cooking the Pork Tenderloin
Searing refers to quickly browning the exterior of the pork tenderloin over high heat. This helps develop a delicious browned crust on the meat.
To sear, heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil such as vegetable, canola or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the seasoned pork tenderloin and sear on all sides until well browned, about 1-2 minutes per side. Use tongs to flip the pork – do not pierce it with a fork or the juices will escape.
Once seared, transfer the entire pork tenderloin to a baking sheet or oven safe dish. Place in a preheated 375°F oven to finish cooking until the thickest part of the tenderloin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. For a 1 pound tenderloin, this will take around 15-25 minutes depending on thickness.
If you don’t want to sear the pork, you can simply season it and place directly into the preheated 375°F oven. Cooking time will be about the same.
Internal Temperature
Using an instant read meat thermometer is the best way to check internal temperature. For pork tenderloin, you want to cook to 145°F for safe consumption. This leaves the interior juicy and tender. Going above 150°F risks overcooking the pork.
Appearance and Texture
When cooked, the pork should be slightly pink inside. It will feel firm but fork-tender. If cutting into medallions, the juices should run clear. Any traces of pink juices means it needs a bit longer cooking.
Resting and Slicing the Pork
Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing – this allows the juices to redistribute evenly.
To slice the pork, use a sharp knife to cut against the grain into medallions or thin slices. Take care not to let too many juices run out when cutting.
For a whole tenderloin, you can also slice lengthwise down the center to expose the interior for presentation. Serve the pork tenderloin warm with your choice of sauces or sides.
Serving and Sauce Ideas
Here are some tasty serving suggestions for cooked Aldi pork tenderloin:
- Pork medallions with mushroom sauce or gravy
- Thin sliced pork tenderloin tacos with pico de gallo
- Pork tenderloin sandwiches with caramelized onions and barbecue sauce
- Pesto crusted pork medallions with roasted vegetables
- Brown sugar garlic glazed pork with sweet potato mash
- Pork medallions with apple chutney
The pork pairs well with fruit based sauces like cranberry, apple, peach, etc. Savory sauces like gravy, mushroom, wine reduction, and mustard sauces also complement the tenderloin beautifully. Get creative with different seasoning blends and serving styles.
Storing Leftover Pork
Refrigerate any leftover pork tenderloin within 2 hours of cooking. Store in an airtight container for 3-5 days. Reheat gently before serving again.
Slices of cooked pork can be frozen for 2-3 months. Allow to thaw completely in the refrigerator before using. Reheat frozen pork thoroughly until hot, an instant read thermometer should show 165°F or higher.
Common Questions
Can I cook an Aldi pork tenderloin from frozen?
Yes, a frozen pork tenderloin can be cooked without thawing first. Add about 5 extra minutes to the oven cooking time. Use an instant read thermometer to check it has reached 145°F internally before serving.
Should I brine pork tenderloin?
Brining is not necessary for pork tenderloin. It is naturally lean and tender. Brining can make the texture overly soft. Simply seasoning well and not overcooking are the keys to keeping pork tenderloin moist and flavorful.
What temperature should I cook pork tenderloin to?
Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. This ensures any bacteria are killed while keeping the pork juicy and tender.
Can I grill an Aldi pork tenderloin?
Yes, grilling is a tasty way to cook pork tenderloin. Sear it quickly over direct high heat just until grill marks appear. Then move to indirect heat at a lower temp (around 325-350°F) until it reaches 145°F internally. Baste with a glaze or sauce in the last 5 minutes if desired.
How long does pork tenderloin last in the fridge?
Raw pork tenderloin will keep 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Cooked pork tenderloin stored properly in an airtight container will last 3-4 days refrigerated.
Nutrition
Here is the nutrition information per 3 ounce serving of cooked Aldi Roseland pork tenderloin (data from USDA):
| Calories | 139 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 4g |
| Sodium | 54mg |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Protein | 25g |
As you can see, pork tenderloin is very lean and provides an excellent source of low-fat protein. It can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet when cooked properly.
Conclusion
Aldi Roseland pork tenderloins offer great quality and value. They are very easy to cook whether roasted whole, cut into medallions, or sliced for sandwiches. By seasoning well, searing for enhanced flavor, and cooking to 145°F internal temperature, you can enjoy juicy, tender pork dinner in under 30 minutes. Experiment with different seasoning blends and serving sauces to keep meals exciting. This lean cut of pork makes for a delicious and nutritious meal.