Thyme Pecan Crusted Pork

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 recipe quickly became a favorite in my family for its perfect balance of crunchy crust and tender pork. It's also a great way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

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

Cook complete meals by frying, sautéing, simmering, and boiling with easy nonstick cleanup every day.

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Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2:

Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Season all over with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3:

In a shallow bowl, combine chopped pecans, thyme, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4:

In a separate bowl, beat the egg with Dijon mustard.

Step 5:

Brush the pork tenderloin with the egg-mustard mixture, coating all sides evenly.

Step 6:

Press the tenderloin firmly into the pecan-thyme mixture, turning to coat all sides.

Step 7:

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.

Step 8:

Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 15–18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 9:

Remove from oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Step 10:

Slice into medallions and serve warm.

Cook complete meals by frying, sautéing, simmering, and boiling with easy nonstick cleanup every day.

Check price on Amazon

Cook complete meals by frying, sautéing, simmering, and boiling with easy nonstick cleanup every day.

Check price on Amazon

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This dish always brings my family together around the dinner table, making every meal feel special and cozy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with roasted root vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the crust's texture.

Variations

For a sweet twist, add 1 tsp honey to the egg-mustard mixture before coating the pork.

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Organize kitchen cleaning supplies and cooking essentials on the wall to keep prep areas tidy and accessible.

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This pork tenderloin recipe delivers a perfect combination of texture and flavor every time. Enjoy your meal with confidence and delight.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I get a crispy crust on the pork?

Press the tenderloin firmly into the pecan and thyme mixture to coat evenly, then sear in olive oil over medium-high heat before roasting to lock in the crust's texture.

→ Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Yes, walnuts work well as a substitute and provide a similar crunch and flavor profile.

→ What is the best way to ensure the pork stays juicy?

Allow the pork to rest loosely covered with foil after roasting. This helps redistribute the juices for tender, moist slices.

→ Is it necessary to use fresh thyme for the crust?

Dried thyme can be used as an alternative, but fresh thyme enhances the aromatic quality of the crust.

→ What side dishes complement this pork preparation?

Roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, or a crisp apple cider are ideal to balance the savory flavors.