Pin to Board 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 dish quickly became a favorite in my family for its flavorful crust and tender meat.
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).
- Season Pork:
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season all over with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Prepare Crust:
- In a shallow bowl, combine chopped pecans, thyme, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare Binding:
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg with Dijon mustard.
- Coat Tenderloin:
- 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.
Pin to Board This recipe is always a hit at family dinners, bringing everyone together around the table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed sweet potatoes for a complete meal.
Variations
Add 1 tsp honey to the egg-mustard mixture for a hint of sweetness.
Pairings
Pairs well with a light Pinot Noir or a crisp apple cider.
Pin to Board 
This pork tenderloin is perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.
Common Questions
- → How do I ensure the crust sticks well to the pork?
Brush the pork tenderloin evenly with the egg and Dijon mustard mixture before pressing it firmly into the pecan and thyme blend. This acts as a binder to hold the crust in place during cooking.
- → What is the best way to cook the pork tenderloin evenly?
Sear the pork on all sides in a hot ovenproof skillet to develop a golden crust, then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven to finish roasting. This method provides even cooking and helps retain moisture.
- → Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Yes, walnuts make a great alternative if pecans are unavailable or you prefer a different nut flavor. Just finely chop and use the same amount.
- → How do I know when the pork is cooked perfectly?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). After removing from the oven, let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- → What side dishes pair well with thyme and pecan crusted pork?
Roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, or a crisp salad complement the rich flavors well. A light Pinot Noir or apple cider is an excellent beverage pairing.