Pin it A succulent pork tenderloin coated in a savory blend of fresh thyme and crunchy pecans, then roasted to perfection. This simple yet elegant skillet dish makes a comforting centerpiece for cozy dinners.
This pork tenderloin recipe has been a favorite for family dinners because of its perfect balance of flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
- Pork: 1 pork tenderloin (about 1–1.25 lbs / 500–600 g), trimmed
- Crust: 1 cup pecans, finely chopped, 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 2 tsp dried thyme), 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Binding: 1 large egg, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- For Searing: 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare pork:
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season all over with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Make crust mixture:
- In a shallow bowl, combine chopped pecans, thyme, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare binding mixture:
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg with Dijon mustard.
- Coat pork:
- Brush the pork tenderloin with the egg-mustard mixture, coating all sides evenly.
- Apply crust:
- Press the tenderloin firmly into the pecan-thyme mixture, turning to coat all sides.
- Sear pork:
- Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until golden, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Roast pork:
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 15–18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest pork:
- Remove from oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve:
- Slice into medallions and serve warm.
Pin it This dish has brought many family dinners to life, with everyone gathering around the table to enjoy the nutty crust and tender pork.
Notes
Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed sweet potatoes. For a hint of sweetness, add 1 tsp honey to the egg-mustard mixture.
Required Tools
Large ovenproof skillet, shallow bowls, tongs, knife and cutting board, meat thermometer (recommended)
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (pecans), dairy (Parmesan), and egg. Double-check cheese and mustard labels for hidden gluten or allergens if sensitive.
Pin it 
This pork tenderloin recipe is an easy way to impress guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pork cut works best?
Pork tenderloin is ideal for this dish due to its tenderness and uniform shape, allowing even cooking and a juicy interior.
- → Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Yes, walnuts make a great alternative providing a slightly different texture and flavor while maintaining the nutty crust appeal.
- → How do I ensure the crust sticks well?
Brushing the tenderloin with a mixture of egg and Dijon mustard forms a sticky base for the pecan and thyme crust to adhere firmly before searing.
- → What is the best way to cook the pork for flavor and texture?
Searing the coated pork in olive oil creates a crispy crust, followed by roasting in the oven to cook it evenly and lock in juices.
- → How should I rest the pork after cooking?
Loosely tent the cooked pork with foil and let it rest 5–10 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute for a tender and moist bite.
- → What side dishes pair well with this pork?
Roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, or a crisp salad complement the flavors and enhance the meal’s balance.