Tender pork bites with gravy

This recipe for Pork Bites with Gravy is the perfect combination of tender, juicy pork pieces simmered in a rich, savory homemade gravy. It comes together quickly on the stovetop and fits into a weeknight dinner routine beautifully if you want a meal that feels like a cozy hug but doesn't keep you in the kitchen all evening.

I first tried this recipe when I was craving comfort food but short on time. Now it’s a go-to whenever I want something that feels both hearty and special without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

• Pork tenderloin: cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and tender results. When selecting, look for pieces with a nice pink color and minimal fat for best flavor
• Garlic powder: to add subtle savory notes
• Herbs de Provence: for a fragrant, herbal lift. If you can’t find it, Italian seasoning or your favorite dried herbs work well too
• Unsalted butter: provides richness without adding extra salt since the recipe balances seasoning carefully
• Sweet onion: chosen for its mild sweetness that enhances the gravy. You can use shallots if you prefer a gentler onion taste
• Fresh garlic: adds bright, aromatic depth; fresh is preferred over pre-minced for best flavor
• All-purpose flour: helps thicken the gravy, giving it a luscious texture
• Beef stock or broth: to build a rich base for the sauce. Low sodium varieties allow you to control the salt
• Balsamic vinegar: brightens the gravy with a subtle tang
• Beef Better Than Bouillon: intensifies the umami in the gravy, but it is optional if you want a simpler version

Instructions

Sear the Pork Pieces:

Place pork bites, salt, herbs de Provence, and black pepper into a large bowl and toss to coat evenly. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add one tablespoon of oil once hot. Add half of the pork bites, letting them sear without crowding the pan so they brown nicely on all sides but do not cook through. Remove and set aside on a plate. Repeat with the remaining pork bites and oil.

Cook the Aromatics:

Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Stir in the chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and slightly softened. This should take about eight to ten minutes, building a sweet, mellow flavor base. Add the minced fresh garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Make the Gravy Base:

Sprinkle the flour over the butter and onions, whisking constantly to form a roux. Cook for one minute to remove the raw flour taste while thickening. Slowly stream in the beef stock or broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add the balsamic vinegar and Better Than Bouillon, stirring well to fully incorporate and build flavor depth.

Simmer with Pork:

Return the seared pork bites along with any accumulated juices to the pan. Stir gently coating the meat in the gravy. Simmer the mixture for about five minutes until the sauce thickens and the pork finishes cooking through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve immediately with your preferred side like egg noodles or mashed potatoes.

The balsamic vinegar is my favorite ingredient here. It cuts through the richness and adds a subtle brightness that keeps the gravy from feeling too heavy. When making this for family, we all joke about how the pork disappears so fast—sometimes I have to double the recipe just to make sure everyone gets enough.

Ingredient Substitutions

If pork tenderloin is not available, use bone-in pork chops cut into bite-sized pieces but consider brining them first to help retain moisture. For Herbs de Provence, Italian seasoning or a mix of dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano work well. You can swap beef stock for chicken stock if you prefer a lighter flavor, though the gravy will be less robust. Butter can be replaced with olive oil, but it will slightly change the richness and mouthfeel of the gravy.

Storage Tips

Store leftover pork bites with gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop and add a splash of stock or water to loosen the gravy if it thickened too much. You can freeze leftovers in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over egg noodles as shown or creamy mashed potatoes for soaking up the sauce. Steamed green beans or roasted carrots add fresh contrast to the rich pork bites. Rice or buttery polenta also work wonderfully if you want a gluten-free option.

Small adjustments like adding fresh herbs at the end or switching up your vinegar can make this recipe your own comfort food classic.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What sides pair well with pork bites and gravy?

Egg noodles, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice complement the rich gravy and tender pork perfectly, soaking up extra flavor.

→ Can other meats be used instead of pork?

Yes, tender cuts of turkey, chicken, or beef work well when cooked quickly and paired with the savory gravy.

→ How should pork bites be reheated to keep them moist?

Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of stock to loosen the gravy and preserve tenderness and juiciness.

→ Is this dish adaptable for slow cooker methods?

Yes, sear the meat first for better flavor, then slow cook with gravy ingredients on low for 3–4 hours for tender results.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.