This Herb-Crusted Pork Fillet with Cheesy Roasted Potatoes and a colorful Bacon-Vegetable Medley is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines juicy, marinated pork fillet with crispy, golden potatoes and a savory blend of bacon, tomatoes, and vegetables. The herb-infused butter and garlic add depth to the pork, while the cheese, bacon, and fresh herbs create a savory, melt-in-your-mouth side dish. The combination of textures and layers of flavors make this meal a delightful experience that’s sure to impress guests and family alike.
This dish not only captures the essence of comfort food but is also packed with layers of flavor and simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s an inviting recipe that celebrates the classic pairing of meat and potatoes, with a fresh, colorful twist. Each component of this recipe brings a unique touch to the meal, making it an enduring favorite that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Herb-Crusted Pork Fillet:
- 2 egg yolks
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried ground garlic
- 2 teaspoons mustard
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 500 grams pork fillet
- 100 grams butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 bunch parsley and dill, finely chopped
- 100 grams cheese, grated
For the Cheesy Roasted Potatoes:
- 400 grams potatoes, cut into wedges
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried ground garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
For the Bacon-Vegetable Medley:
- 200 grams bacon, diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 red Bulgarian pepper, chopped
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- A pinch of salt and black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~650 kcal
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, paprika, dried garlic, mustard, tomato sauce, soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Whisk until all ingredients are well blended.
- Place the pork fillet in the marinade, coating it thoroughly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 1 hour for a richer flavor.
Step 2: Roast the Potatoes 3. Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). 4. In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon dried garlic, dried parsley, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. 5. Spread the potatoes evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, sprinkle grated cheese over the potatoes and return to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and the potatoes are tender.
Step 3: Prepare the Bacon-Vegetable Medley 6. In a skillet over medium heat, add the diced bacon and cook until it starts to crisp, about 5-7 minutes. 7. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, approximately 3 minutes. 8. Add the diced tomato and chopped red Bulgarian pepper. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper, and continue to cook until the vegetables are softened and the flavors meld together, about 5 more minutes. Set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Pork Fillet 9. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, and dill, stirring for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. 10. Remove the pork fillet from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Sear the pork fillet in the garlic-herb butter until golden on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. 11. Transfer the seared pork fillet to a baking dish and cover it with any remaining garlic-herb butter. Sprinkle grated cheese over the pork fillet and bake in the oven for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (158°F) and the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 5: Serve 12. Slice the pork fillet and plate it alongside the cheesy roasted potatoes and bacon-vegetable medley. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
This Herb-Crusted Pork Fillet with Cheesy Roasted Potatoes and Bacon-Vegetable Medley represents timeless cooking by combining rustic, comforting flavors with simple ingredients. The pork fillet is tender, juicy, and infused with herb and garlic flavors, while the roasted potatoes add a comforting crunch. This dish is rooted in classic techniques that let the flavors of the ingredients shine without overly complex steps, making it accessible and appealing to everyone. Its vibrant colors and rich, inviting aroma evoke feelings of warmth and comfort, making it a perfect choice for a wide range of occasions.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: ~650 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Total Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Potassium: 700mg
- Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Vitamin C: 25% DV
- Calcium: 20% DV
- Iron: 18% DV
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can substitute pork fillet with chicken breast, beef tenderloin, or lamb fillet. Adjust cooking times as necessary based on the thickness and type of meat.
2. What can I use instead of quark cheese?
Cream cheese or ricotta can be used if quark is unavailable, though they will add a different texture and slightly richer taste.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The potatoes and bacon-vegetable medley can be prepared ahead and reheated. Marinate the pork in advance, but it’s best to cook it fresh to keep the meat tender.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet for best results.
Tips for Making Perfect Herb-Crusted Pork Fillet
- Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the pork to marinate for at least 20 minutes ensures a deeper flavor. If you have time, marinate it for a few hours.
- Achieve a Crisp on the Potatoes: To ensure a crispy texture, spread the potatoes out on the baking sheet, avoiding overlap.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill add a vibrant, fragrant element to the dish. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch but will yield a milder flavor.
- Control the Bacon Crispiness: Cook the bacon until it reaches your preferred crispness, as it will soften slightly when mixed with the vegetables.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or in a skillet over medium heat.
Freezing: The pork and potatoes can be frozen separately in freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
This Herb-Crusted Pork Fillet with Cheesy Roasted Potatoes and Bacon-Vegetable Medley is a meal that promises warmth, comfort, and delightful flavors in every bite. The well-seasoned, juicy pork, crispy, cheesy potatoes, and vibrant bacon-vegetable mix come together to create a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and sure to please a crowd. This recipe takes everyday ingredients and elevates them with simple yet effective techniques, resulting in a meal that feels both rustic and gourmet.
Perfect for family gatherings, Sunday dinners, or even special occasions, this dish is versatile and adaptable, making it an ideal recipe to keep in your rotation. As you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate how the flavors meld together, showcasing the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients. Enjoy this recipe with loved ones and create a timeless mealtime tradition that everyone will look forward to!