Introduction

Garlic Butter Pork Medallions with Green Beans is a quick, elegant, and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or even a casual dinner party. Tender pork medallions are seared to golden perfection and bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that infuses each bite with richness and depth. Fresh green beans are lightly sautéed in the same pan, soaking up the savory flavors while retaining their crispness and vibrant color. This recipe is a beautiful balance of protein and vegetables, delivering both comfort and sophistication in one plate.

I love this recipe because it’s fast, flavorful, and always impressive. The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs elevates simple pork medallions to restaurant-quality levels without requiring hours in the kitchen. The green beans not only add texture and color but also complement the rich flavors of the pork perfectly. It’s a dish that’s satisfying, visually appealing, and versatile enough to pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or a light salad.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. The garlic butter sauce brings out the natural sweetness of the pork, and the fresh green beans provide a refreshing crunch. It’s a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly healthy and light. The flavors are bold but balanced, making it a favorite for both family meals and special dinners.

Why It’s a Must-Try

• Juicy pork medallions: Seared perfectly for a tender, flavorful bite.
• Rich garlic butter sauce: Easy but packed with deep, comforting flavors.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Healthy and balanced: Includes lean protein and fresh vegetables.
• Impressive presentation: Looks like a gourmet dish with minimal effort.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 25–30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Contemporary

Ingredients

For the Pork Medallions:

• 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch medallions
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Green Beans:

• 12 oz fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Cooking Directions

Preparing the Pork Medallions:

1. Pat pork medallions dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add pork medallions and sear 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 145°F / 63°C). Remove pork from skillet and let rest.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce:

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
2. Add minced garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Return pork medallions to the skillet, spooning sauce over them to coat.

Cooking the Green Beans:

1. In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add green beans, season with salt and pepper, and sauté 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. Optional: Finish with a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cut pork tenderloin into medallions, season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear pork medallions in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and rest.
3. Make garlic butter sauce in the same skillet: melt butter, sauté garlic and thyme, season.
4. Return pork to skillet and coat with sauce.
5. Sauté green beans in olive oil until tender-crisp. Season and optionally add lemon juice.
6. Serve pork medallions with garlic butter sauce alongside green beans.

How to Serve

• Arrange 3–4 pork medallions on each plate.
• Spoon garlic butter sauce over the pork.
• Serve green beans alongside pork for a colorful and balanced plate.
• Optional sides: mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted potatoes.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear pork medallions in batches if needed.
• Fresh herbs: Thyme, rosemary, or parsley work well in the garlic butter sauce.
• Check pork temperature: Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked, juicy medallions.
• Add brightness: A squeeze of lemon over the finished dish enhances flavor.
• Pan sauce: Deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or white wine for extra flavor.

Variations

1. Spicy garlic butter: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
2. Mushroom medley: Sauté mushrooms with the green beans for extra umami.
3. Creamy sauce: Stir in 2 tbsp heavy cream to the garlic butter for richness.
4. Parmesan topping: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the green beans or pork before serving.
5. Asian twist: Add soy sauce and ginger to the garlic butter for an Asian-inspired version.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store cooked pork and green beans separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Pork medallions can be frozen with sauce for up to 2 months; green beans are best frozen separately.
• Reheating: Reheat pork gently in a skillet or oven; green beans can be sautéed quickly or microwaved.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan for pork
• Skillet for green beans
• Tongs for turning pork medallions
• Meat thermometer

FAQ

Q1: Can I use pork chops instead of medallions?
A: Yes, just adjust cooking time depending on thickness.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, cook pork and green beans separately, store, and reheat before serving.

Q3: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yes, but cook slightly longer to ensure they are tender.

Q4: Can I substitute butter for olive oil?
A: Butter adds richness; you can use olive oil for a lighter version.

Q5: How do I keep pork juicy?
A: Do not overcook and allow meat to rest for 5 minutes after searing.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Pork Medallions with Green Beans is a quick, flavorful, and elegant dish perfect for any night of the week. The tender pork paired with a rich garlic butter sauce and crisp green beans makes a balanced, satisfying, and visually appealing meal. It’s simple enough for a weekday dinner but impressive enough for entertaining guests, making it a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold flavors and easy cooking.