Indulge in incredibly tender, savory pork bites bathed in a rich, homemade gravy. This remarkably easy recipe brings a satisfying, comforting meal to your table in just over half an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

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Quick Comfort: Pork Bites with Savory Gravy

Pork tenderloin is a versatile and often underrated cut of meat, perfect for creating quick yet impressive meals. I frequently receive requests for new and exciting ways to prepare it, and these Pork Bites with Gravy have quickly become a family favorite. This dish truly embodies the essence of comfort food – it’s quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and incredibly hearty. The secret lies in the beautifully seared pork, which locks in moisture and develops a deep flavor, perfectly complemented by the luscious, savory brown gravy. It’s a straightforward recipe that requires minimal fuss but delivers maximum satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for a filling protein dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

A plate of egg noodles and Pork Bites with Gravy, showcasing a hearty, comforting meal.

Your Go-To Guide: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best side dishes to serve with Pork Bites with Gravy?

These flavorful pork bites and their rich gravy are incredibly versatile. They pair wonderfully with classic comfort sides. I particularly love serving them over creamy mashed potatoes, which are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious gravy. Another fantastic option is egg noodles, as pictured, offering a delightful texture contrast. For a lighter touch, consider steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple garden salad. Rice, quinoa, or even polenta can also make excellent companions, providing a neutral base to highlight the rich flavors of the pork and gravy.

Can I use different cuts of meat or other proteins for this recipe?

Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is recommended for its tenderness and quick cooking time, you can certainly adapt this recipe. Thicker, bone-in pork chops or even a pork loin cut into bite-sized pieces can work, though I would suggest brining pork chops first to prevent them from drying out during the quick cook. This recipe also lends itself beautifully to other proteins like boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, turkey breast, or even a tender cut of beef like sirloin or flank steak. Just ensure your chosen meat is cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces for even cooking, keeping in mind that more tender cuts are best for this quick stovetop method.

What is the best way to reheat leftover pork bites and gravy?

Reheating is simple! To restore the gravy to its original luscious consistency, you might need to add a splash of beef stock or broth as it reheats, as gravies tend to thicken significantly when cooled. For best results, reheat the pork bites and gravy gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method helps maintain the tender texture of the pork and prevents it from overcooking. You can also use a microwave, but be mindful not to overheat, which can make the pork tough.

Is it possible to make this Pork Bites with Gravy recipe in a slow cooker?

While this recipe is designed for a quick stovetop preparation to achieve that delicious sear and rich flavor, it can be adapted for a slow cooker if you prefer. For the best results, I still highly recommend searing the pork bites in a skillet first, as directed in the recipe, to develop a deep brown crust and lock in those wonderful juices. After searing, transfer the pork to your slow cooker. Prepare the gravy separately in the skillet by sautéing the onions and garlic, making the roux with flour and butter, then whisking in the beef stock and other seasonings. Pour the prepared gravy over the seared pork in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender. This two-step process ensures you get all the flavor benefits of searing while enjoying the convenience of a slow-cooked meal.

How should I store any leftovers?

Store any leftover Pork Bites with Gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring there’s minimal air to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as described above.

A serving bowl full of rich, homemade gravy and tender pork bites, ready to be enjoyed.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Pork Bites with Gravy

Crafting this flavorful dish requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the depth of flavor that makes this recipe truly special.

Pork Tenderloin: The star of the show. We’ll be using approximately 2 to 2 ½ pounds, cut into uniform bite-sized pieces. Pork tenderloin is exceptionally lean and tender, making it ideal for quick cooking. While you could substitute thicker-cut pork chops, be mindful that they can dry out easily; brining them beforehand is a good preventative measure.
Garlic Powder: A foundational seasoning for the pork, providing a mellow, aromatic base that complements the other herbs.
Herbs de Provence: This classic French blend, typically including savory, marjoram, rosemary, thyme, and oregano, adds an exquisite, aromatic complexity to the pork. If you don’t have it on hand, Italian seasoning or a mix of your favorite fresh or dried herbs can be used as a delicious alternative. Most well-stocked grocery stores now carry Herbs de Provence, or you can find it easily online.
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the pork and enhancing all the other flavors in the dish. Adjust to your preference.
Cooking Oil: Used for searing the pork to create that beautiful golden-brown crust and lock in the juices. A neutral oil like olive oil, canola, or vegetable oil works best.
Unsalted Butter: Forms the base of our rich gravy. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall sodium content of the dish, especially since beef stock and Better Than Bouillon also contribute salt. If salted butter is all you have, simply reduce the amount of added salt elsewhere in the recipe.
Sweet Onion: Thinly sliced, a sweet onion cooks down to add a delicate sweetness and depth to the gravy. For an even milder, more refined flavor, a shallot would be an absolutely heavenly substitution, offering a subtle blend of onion and garlic notes that many prefer, especially if they are sensitive to stronger onion flavors.
Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic is indispensable for the gravy, providing a pungent, aromatic punch. While jarred minced garlic is convenient, fresh garlic offers a superior, brighter flavor that truly makes a difference in the final taste of your gravy.
All-Purpose Flour: This is our thickening agent for the gravy, creating a classic roux when combined with the butter, giving the gravy its velvety texture.
Beef Stock or Broth: The liquid foundation for the gravy. I recommend using a low or no-sodium option if you are conscious about sodium intake, as it gives you greater control over the seasoning.
Balsamic Vinegar: A secret weapon for brightening the entire dish! A tablespoon of balsamic vinegar adds a touch of acidity and a subtle tang that beautifully cuts through the richness of the gravy, balancing the flavors and elevating the dish. I highly recommend including it, but if you don’t have it, the dish will still be delicious. Avoid substitutes unless you have a proven, magical homemade version you trust.
Beef Better Than Bouillon: This concentrated paste truly enhances the beefy flavor of the gravy, adding an incredible depth and richness that traditional bouillon cubes often can’t match. You’ll typically find it in the soup or bouillon aisle of your grocery store, or you can also purchase Better Than Bouillon online. While optional, it makes a noticeable difference.

A display of all the fresh ingredients needed for Pork Bites with Gravy: pork tenderloin, onion, oil, beef stock, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Herbs de Provence, butter, minced garlic cloves, and Better Than Bouillon.

How to Make the Best Pork Bites with Gravy

Follow these simple steps to create a truly irresistible comfort food meal that will impress everyone at your table.

Preparing the Pork

Begin by patting your pork tenderloin pieces dry. This crucial step helps achieve a better sear. In a large bowl, combine the bite-sized pork pieces with kosher salt, garlic powder, Herbs de Provence, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the pork is evenly coated with the seasonings. This ensures every piece is infused with flavor.

Bite-sized pork pieces seasoned with garlic powder, Herbs de Provence, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.

Next, heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works wonderfully) over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. When the oil shimmers, add half of the seasoned pork bites to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can steam the meat instead of searing it. Our goal here is to achieve a beautiful brown crust on all sides, building flavor, but not to cook the pork through completely. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side. Once seared, transfer these pork bites to a clean plate and set aside. Repeat this process with the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and the second batch of pork bites. Once all the pork is seared, return it to the plate and keep it warm. Do NOT wipe out the pan – those browned bits (fond) at the bottom are packed with flavor and essential for our gravy!

Seared pork bites and thinly sliced onions simmering in a rich butter and flour mixture in a skillet.

Crafting the Savory Gravy

Reduce the heat to medium. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet, letting it melt and incorporate with the flavorful fond. Add the thinly sliced sweet onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and softened, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. The slow cooking of the onion will draw out its sweetness and deepen the gravy’s profile. Stir in the minced fresh garlic and cook for just about 30 seconds, or until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Now, it’s time to build our roux for the gravy. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the softened onions and garlic. Whisk vigorously for about 1 minute, ensuring the flour is fully incorporated with the butter and coats the onions. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a thick base for our gravy. Slowly stream in 1 cup of beef stock or broth, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continuous whisking is key here for a smooth, velvety gravy. Finally, stir in 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar and 2 teaspoons of beef Better Than Bouillon. The balsamic vinegar adds a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness, while the Better Than Bouillon intensifies the savory beef flavor.

Beef broth being slowly added to a skillet containing the aromatic onion, garlic, butter, and flour mixture, beginning to form the rich gravy.

Simmer and Serve

Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, return the seared pork bites to the skillet, along with any accumulated meat drippings from the plate. Gently toss the pork in the gravy, ensuring each tender bite is coated. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken to your desired consistency. The pork should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C), which will be achieved during this simmering phase. Serve immediately, piping hot, and watch it disappear!

A beautifully presented plate with Pork Bites and Gravy served over a bed of fluffy egg noodles, ready to be enjoyed as a hearty meal.

Craving More Hearty Pork Recipes?

Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin: Effortless and flavorful, perfect for busy days.
Air Fryer Pork Bites: A quicker, crispy alternative for pork lovers.
Baked Pork Tenderloin: Simple and succulent, a timeless classic.
Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin: Achieve perfectly cooked tenderloin with minimal effort.
Crock Pot Pork Loin: Deliciously tender, perfect for a larger family meal.
Crock Pot Herb Pork Loin with Gravy: Another slow-cooker favorite, packed with herbaceous flavors.
Herb Crusted Pork Roast: A show-stopping roast, ideal for gatherings.

A close-up view of tender Pork Bites with a generous coating of savory gravy.

Pork Bites with Gravy

Tender pork bites cooked in a rich, savory homemade gravy, a true family favorite.

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Cook Time:
35 minutes

Total Time:
50 minutes

Servings: 6

Author: Brandie Skibinski

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Ingredients

For the Pork:

2 ½ pounds pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Herbs de Provence
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 Tablespoons oil (divided use)

For the Gravy:

4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
½ small sweet onion, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup beef stock or broth (can use low or no sodium)
1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons beef Better Than Bouillon

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the 2 ½ pounds pork tenderloin (cut into bite-sized pieces), 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Herbs de Provence, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Toss well to ensure all the pork is evenly coated with the spices.
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to get hot before adding oil.
Once the skillet is hot, add 1 Tablespoon of oil. Add half of the seasoned pork bites to the pan. Sear the pork on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. The goal is to develop a good sear, not to cook the pork all the way through.
Transfer the seared pork to a clean plate. Add the remaining 1 Tablespoon of oil to the skillet and sear the second half of the pork bites. Once all the pork is seared, return it to the plate and set aside. Do not clean the skillet, as the browned bits are essential for the gravy.
Lower the heat to medium. Add 4 Tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet and allow it to melt completely.
Add the ½ small sweet onion (thinly sliced) to the melted butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and softened, approximately 8-10 minutes.
Stir in the 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Add 3 Tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the skillet and whisk it into the butter and onion mixture. Cook for 1 minute, creating a roux.
Slowly stream in 1 cup of beef stock or broth while whisking constantly. This is crucial for preventing lumps and achieving a smooth gravy.
Stir in 1 Tablespoon of balsamic vinegar and 2 teaspoons of beef Better Than Bouillon. Mix until fully combined and the gravy is smooth.
Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer. Add the seared pork bites and any drippings from the plate back into the skillet. Stir to coat the pork in the rich gravy.
Continue simmering for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency and the pork is heated through. The pork bites should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). Serve immediately with your favorite sides!

Notes

Refer to the Frequently Asked Questions and ingredient list above for detailed substitutions and common queries.
Pork tenderloins are commonly sold in packs of two. For this recipe, aim for a total weight of about 2 – 2 ½ pounds from both tenderloins.

Course:
Dinner

Cuisine:
American

Nutrition

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.

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