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Make juicy, tender bites of pork simmered in a rich homemade gravy in just over a half hour with this easy Pork Bites with Gravy recipe. This meal brings together comfort and convenience in a way that makes weeknight dinners feel special without hours of work. The savory brown gravy clings to each bite, turning simple pork tenderloin into a filling, flavor packed dish that pairs beautifully with many sides.
I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something comforting but quick. It quickly became a favorite in our house where hearty meals and speedy prep are both priorities.
Ingredients
- Pork tenderloin: cut into bite sized pieces for quick cooking and tender texture choose fresh and well trimmed pieces for best results
- Garlic powder: lends mellow savory notes avoid pre ground spices that have been sitting too long for more vibrant flavor
- Herbs de Provence: provides a fragrant, floral herbal touch if unavailable, Italian seasoning or your preferred dried herbs work well
- Unsalted butter: controls salt levels so you can season precisely use quality butter for a smooth finish
- Sweet onion: contributes sweetness and depth shallots can be a lovely substitute for a milder flavor
- Fresh garlic: adds aromatic intensity fresh is worth the extra effort here rather than jarred minced garlic
- All purpose flour: thickens the gravy to a luscious consistency measure carefully for the right texture
- Beef stock: adds robustness and depth to the gravy low sodium stock lets you manage saltiness
- Balsamic vinegar: brightens and balances the richness in the sauce highly recommended if you want that perfect tangy note
- Beef Better than Bouillon: optional but gives the gravy extra umami and richness a great pantry upgrade if you don't have this just use good stock
Instructions
- Sear the Pork:
- Place pork bites in a large bowl and add salt, black pepper, and herbs de Provence. Toss to coat each piece evenly. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat, add oil and sear pork in a single layer without moving until browned on one side. Turn to brown other sides but do not cook through. Remove and set aside, searing remaining pork in batches.
- Cook the Aromatics:
- Lower heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet to keep pan flavors. Add diced sweet onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and tender about 8 to 10 minutes. Add minced fresh garlic and cook just until fragrant about 30 seconds, taking care not to burn it.
- Build the Gravy:
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and butter mixture and whisk constantly for about one minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the beef stock while whisking steadily to prevent lumps. Stir in balsamic vinegar and a spoonful of Beef Better than Bouillon if using to deepen the flavor.
- Simmer and Finish:
- Return the seared pork bites and any accumulated juices to the skillet and stir gently to coat with the gravy. Bring to a simmer and cook about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency. Serve hot immediately.
My favorite part of this dish is how that balsamic vinegar subtly wakes up the flavors and gives it a home style richness that still feels fresh. One rainy afternoon, my family gathered around the table with bowls of these pork bites and mashed potatoes and the cozy warmth and simple goodness made it one of those meals everyone remembers.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pork bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to keep freshness. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat and add a splash of stock or water to loosen the gravy if it thickens too much which helps maintain a silky texture without drying out the pork.
Ingredient Substitutions
If pork tenderloin is not available, try thick bone in pork chops cut into cubes and consider brining them first to help prevent drying out. Chicken or turkey breast can be used for a lighter version, adjusting cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking. If you don't have Herbs de Provence use a mix of rosemary, thyme, and oregano for a similar herbal note.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pork bites over buttered egg noodles to soak up the luscious gravy. Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for a more traditional comfort meal, while steamed green beans or sautéed mushrooms add an earthy balance. Warm crusty bread is also excellent for mopping up every last bit of gravy.
This quick pork bites recipe delivers tender meat and a silky balsamic tinged gravy that elevates weeknight dinners. Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting meal.
FAQs About This Recipe
- → What side dishes go well with pork bites in gravy?
They pair excellently with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice, which soak up the rich gravy wonderfully.
- → Can other meats be used instead of pork bites?
Yes, tender cuts like bone-in pork chops, turkey, chicken, or beef pieces can be substituted for similar results.
- → How should pork bites with gravy be reheated?
Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of stock if needed to loosen the gravy and maintain moisture.
- → Is it possible to cook this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, after searing the meat and preparing the gravy separately, combine and cook on low for 3–4 hours for tender bites.
- → How can leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.