Tuscan Pork Sheet Pan Supper: A Hearty, Flavorful One-Pan Meal
Juicy pork and sweet potatoes roast in fragrant herbs for a simple, flavor-packed dinner.
Few dinners rival the ease and robust flavor of a classic sheet pan supper. The Tuscan Pork Sheet Pan Supper is a standout among one-pan wonders, blending herby marinated pork tenderloin with sweet potatoes and shallots, all roasted together for a meal that’s both satisfying and convenient. Perfect for busy weeknights or chilly weekends, this recipe delivers the rustic, sun-drenched flavors of Tuscany to your table with minimal fuss and maximum taste. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, follow this comprehensive guide to experience an Italian-inspired dinner your whole family will love.
Why Choose a Sheet Pan Supper?
Sheet pan suppers offer the ultimate combination of simplicity and flavor. With everything cooked on a single tray, cleanup is a breeze, and the flavors of each ingredient meld beautifully in the oven. This Tuscan rendition uses pork tenderloin—a lean, tender cut—paired with vegetables for a balanced meal that comes together in under an hour.
- Minimal cleanup: One pan, one solution for every component.
- Balanced nutrition: Protein, veggies, and healthy fats in each serving.
- Big, Italian flavors: Herbs, balsamic vinegar, and garlic infuse the dish.
- Customizable: Easily substitute vegetables or tweak seasonings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To achieve the fully developed Tuscan flavor, gather these essential ingredients:
- Balsamic vinegar – For depth and gentle tang
- Garlic – Minced, for robust savory character
- Olive oil – High-quality for both marinade and roasting
- Dried oregano – Signature Mediterranean herb
- Kosher salt and black pepper – For seasoning
- Pork tenderloins – Tender, lean, and quick-cooking (about 2 lbs total)
- Sweet potatoes – Cut into wedges for caramelized sweetness
- Shallots – Quartered, for mild, elegant onion flavor
- Fresh parsley – For a burst of fresh color and flavor (as garnish)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Balsamic vinegar | 1/3 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 5 cloves |
| Olive oil | 1/3 cup + 1/4 cup (plus more for pans) |
| Dried oregano | 4 teaspoons |
| Kosher salt | 2 teaspoons (plus more for taste) |
| Black pepper | 1.5 teaspoons |
| Pork tenderloins | 2 (1+ lb each) |
| Sweet potatoes (cut into 6 wedges each) | 6 |
| Shallots (quartered) | 6 |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) | As needed |
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Marinade
Start by creating a marinade that infuses both the pork and the final dish with deep Tuscan flavor:
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, 1/3 cup olive oil, 2 teaspoons oregano, and 1 teaspoon each salt and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Pork Tenderloin
- Place the pork tenderloins in a large resealable plastic bag or container.
- Pour in the marinade, seal, and turn to coat.
- Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Prepare the Vegetables
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and position racks in the upper and lower thirds.
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato wedges and quartered shallots with 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Sheet Pans
- Lightly oil two large rimmed sheet pans.
- Remove the pork from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and place one tenderloin on each sheet pan. Season lightly with additional salt.
- Arrange the sweet potatoes and shallots cut-sides down around the pork, ensuring a single even layer for proper roasting.
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5. Roast to Perfection
- Roast in the preheated oven, rotating the pans from top to bottom and shaking gently halfway through to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
- After 20–30 minutes, use an instant-read thermometer to check the pork’s internal temperature; it should register 140–145°F (60–63°C) for juiciness.
- If the pork is cooked but the potatoes need more time, transfer the pork to a cutting board to rest, and return the sheet pan with the potatoes and shallots to the oven for 5 additional minutes.
6. Finishing Touches
- Slice the rested pork tenderloin crosswise into medallions. Serve alongside the roasted sweet potatoes and shallots.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for color and a final burst of flavor.
Tips for Success and Recipe Variations
- For best results, marinate the pork as long as you have time for—a couple of hours ensures tender, flavorful meat.
- Cut sweet potatoes into even wedges to promote uniform browning.
- Let pork rest after roasting for 5–10 minutes so the juices redistribute before slicing.
- Try other veggies: Substitute carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts for sweet potatoes to suit the season.
- Brighten with lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon after roasting for a zesty finish.
Why Pork Tenderloin Works for Sheet Pan Dinners
Pork tenderloin is an underappreciated protein star in the kitchen. It’s incredibly lean, making it a healthier choice, and it cooks quickly while retaining juiciness when properly marinated and not overcooked. Its relatively neutral flavor serves as the perfect canvas for bold, herbaceous accents like those found in Tuscan recipes.
- Quick-cooking: Roasts in 20-30 minutes.
- Leanness: Lower in fat, but stays moist if handled with care.
- Versatility: Absorbs marinade flavors thoroughly.
This makes pork tenderloin ideal for sheet pan suppers where timing is crucial and flavors must shine.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is well-rounded on its own, but you can round out your meal or add a touch of true Italian authenticity by including:
- Rustic bread: For sopping up pan juices.
- Simple green salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette.
- Chilled white wine: Such as Pinot Grigio or Vermentino.
- Grated parmesan: For sprinkling lightly over vegetables.
Expert Tips: Sheet Pan Supper Success Every Time
- Line your pans with parchment or foil for fastest cleanup.
- Rotate pans between oven racks halfway through for even cooking.
- Shake the pans gently mid-way through roasting to avoid sticking.
- Let the pork rest before slicing for maximum juiciness.
- Garnish just before serving to keep parsley bright and fresh.
Nutrition Information
This recipe provides a balanced plate of protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats:
- High in protein from the pork tenderloin
- Rich in fiber, beta-carotene, and potassium from sweet potatoes
- Heart-healthy fats from extra-virgin olive oil
- Antioxidants from herbs and garlic
For a lower-sodium version, reduce the amount of kosher salt or use a salt alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best way to ensure pork tenderloin stays juicy in the oven?
A: Marinating helps, but the secret is not overcooking. Remove pork when it hits 140–145°F and let it rest; it will stay succulent and tender.
Q: Can I use other types of pork for this recipe?
A: Pork loin or boneless pork chops can be substituted, but adjust roasting time accordingly as thicker cuts may take longer.
Q: What vegetables work best as substitutes for sweet potatoes?
A: Carrots, Yukon gold potatoes, parsnips, or even chunks of butternut squash hold up beautifully in a hot oven alongside the pork.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead?
A: Yes! Marinate the pork up to a day ahead, prep veggies in the morning, and store everything covered in the fridge. Assemble just before roasting.
Q: How do I know when the pork is done?
A: Use an instant-read thermometer. Pork is safe and juicy at 145°F. Rest it before slicing for best texture.
Other Delicious Sheet Pan Dinner Ideas
- Sheet Pan Curried Chicken: Features red curry paste and a medley of veggies for a robust, spicy twist.
- Sheet Pan Cajun Chicken and Corn: Brings Southern flair with Cajun spice and sweet roasted corn.
- Spicy Peanut Chicken and Broccoli: Creamy peanut sauce over roasted chicken and crisp-tender broccoli.
- Sheet-Pan Chicken with Lemons and Olives: Classic Mediterranean flavors with briny olives and zesty lemons.
Conclusion: Bringing Tuscany to Your Table
Making a Tuscan Pork Sheet Pan Supper brings all the warmth and simplicity of the Italian countryside to your kitchen. With just a few pantry staples, fresh produce, and a quality cut of pork tenderloin, you can serve up a meal that’s healthy, hearty, and sure to become a favorite in your sheet pan repertoire. Enjoy the convenience—and flavors—of this vibrant all-in-one supper any night of the week.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a32435942/tuscan-pork-sheet-pan-supper-recipe/
- https://fillyourplate.org/recipes/tuscan-pork-sheet-pan-supper/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g32934608/sheet-pan-dinner-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g46329132/pork-tenderloin-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/g37258918/pork-recipes/
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