Save to Pinterest 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.
I love serving this pork tenderloin at family dinners because it feels fancy but is so easy to prepare.
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 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.
- Mix Crust:
- In a shallow bowl, combine chopped pecans, thyme, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix Binding:
- 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:
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 15–18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest:
- Remove from oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve:
- Slice into medallions and serve warm.
Save to Pinterest This dish always brings everyone to the table quickly and sparks great conversations.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pork tenderloin with a light Pinot Noir or a crisp apple cider for a perfect accompaniment.
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (pecans), dairy (Parmesan), and egg. Double-check cheese and mustard labels for hidden gluten or allergens if sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 370 calories, 25 g total fat, 6 g carbohydrates, 32 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this elegant yet simple pork tenderloin that’s sure to impress at any dinner.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the crust sticks to the pork tenderloin?
Brushing the pork with an egg and mustard mixture creates a binding layer that helps the pecan and thyme crust adhere evenly to the meat.
- → Can I substitute pecans with another nut?
Yes, walnuts work well as a substitute, offering a similar crunch and flavor profile to complement the thyme.
- → What is the best way to check pork doneness?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe and juicy results.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the crust and coat the pork ahead, then refrigerate it up to a day before cooking to save time.
- → What side dishes pair well with this pork tenderloin?
Roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, or a fresh green salad complement the flavors and textures nicely.