How Much Pork Tenderloin Per Person? The Answer Will Surprise You!

If you’re planning a succulent pork tenderloin meal, determining the appropriate portion size is crucial for a satisfying dining experience. The general rule of thumb is 6-8 ounces of raw pork tenderloin per person. This amount yields a generous serving that ensures everyone has enough to savor.

Factors to Consider

Determining the exact portion size may vary depending on several factors:

Appetizers and Side Dishes

If you’re serving appetizers or side dishes, you can adjust the pork tenderloin portion slightly downward. For example, if you have a substantial appetizer, you could serve 5-6 ounces per person.

Cooking Method

The cooking method can also affect the portion size. If you’re grilling or roasting the pork tenderloin, it will shrink slightly during cooking. Therefore, you may want to increase the portion size to 7-9 ounces per person.

Individual Appetites

Consider the appetites of your guests. If you have hearty eaters, you may want to increase the portion size to 8-10 ounces per person. Conversely, if you have guests with smaller appetites, you can reduce it to 5-6 ounces per person.

Additional Tips

• Purchase a whole pork tenderloin: This allows you to cut it into your desired portion sizes.
• Remove the silver skin: This thin membrane can be removed before cooking to enhance tenderness.
• Cook to an internal temperature of 145°F: This ensures the pork tenderloin is cooked through but still remains juicy.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let the pork tenderloin rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

Portioning for Different Occasions

The appropriate portion size may also vary depending on the occasion:

Dinner Party

For a formal dinner party, serve 6-7 ounces per person. This provides a generous portion that allows for appetizers and side dishes.

Casual Gatherings

For casual gatherings, such as a family dinner or barbecue, serve 7-9 ounces per person. This ensures everyone has a satisfying meal.

Appetizers

If serving pork tenderloin as an appetizer, cut it into smaller pieces, about 2-3 ounces per person.

Portioning for Different Cuts

The portion size may also vary slightly depending on the cut of pork tenderloin:

Whole Pork Tenderloin

A whole pork tenderloin typically weighs 1-1.5 pounds. This is enough for 4-6 servings.

Pork Tenderloin Medallions

Pork tenderloin medallions are pre-cut pieces of tenderloin. They typically weigh 4-6 ounces each, making them ideal for individual servings.

Pork Tenderloin Tips

Pork tenderloin tips are the smaller end pieces of the tenderloin. They are often used in stir-fries or as an addition to other dishes.

Wrapping Up

Determining the ideal portion size of pork tenderloin per person is essential for a satisfying dining experience. By considering factors such as appetizers, side dishes, cooking method, and individual appetites, you can ensure that everyone has a delicious and filling meal.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: What is the difference between pork tenderloin and pork loin?
A: Pork tenderloin is a long, narrow cut from the muscle that runs along the backbone. Pork loin, on the other hand, is a larger, thicker cut from the back of the pig.

Q: Can I cook pork tenderloin from frozen?
A: Yes, you can cook pork tenderloin from frozen. However, it will take longer to cook and you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: What is the best way to cook pork tenderloin?
A: Pork tenderloin can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, roasting, pan-searing, or sous vide. The best method depends on your personal preferences and the occasion.