Roasted Pork Tenderloin
Incredibly juicy and tender pork tenderloin with a sweet and savory crust. This elegant main course is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, ready in about 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
7 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare for Roasting
- b.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- c.Remove the pork tenderloin from the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. Pat it completely dry with paper towels.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Create the Seasoning Paste
- b.In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- c.Add the Dijon mustard and mix everything into a thick, spreadable paste.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Season the Pork
- b.Rub the seasoning paste evenly over the entire surface of the pork tenderloin, ensuring it's fully coated.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Sear for a Perfect Crust
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- c.Carefully place the seasoned tenderloin in the hot skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms all around. This should take about 6-8 minutes in total.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Roast to Perfection
- b.Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven.
- c.Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the tenderloin registers 145°F (63°C). Be careful not to overcook.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Rest the Meat
- b.Remove the skillet from the oven. Carefully transfer the pork tenderloin to a clean cutting board and tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
- c.Let it rest for 10 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and moist result.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Slice and Serve
- b.After resting, slice the tenderloin against the grain into 1/2-inch thick medallions. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1A meat thermometer is your best friend for this recipe. Pork tenderloin is very lean and can go from perfectly cooked to dry in just a few minutes.
- 2Bringing the pork to room temperature before cooking helps it cook more evenly.
- 3Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the pork to get a beautiful, flavorful sear.
- 4If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, sear the pork in a regular pan and then transfer it to a small roasting pan or baking dish to finish in the oven.
- 5Let the pork rest for the full 10 minutes. Slicing into it too early will cause all the delicious juices to run out onto the cutting board.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herbaceous
Add 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or sage to the spice rub for a more aromatic, earthy flavor.
SpicySpicy
Incorporate 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the rub for a spicy kick.
Sweet & Tangy GlazeSweet & Tangy Glaze
In the last 5 minutes of roasting, brush the tenderloin with a glaze made from 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Pork tenderloin is one of the leanest cuts of pork, providing high-quality protein essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in B Vitamins
It's a great source of B vitamins, particularly thiamin (B1), niacin (B3), and B6, which are crucial for converting food into energy and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Provides Essential Minerals
This cut of pork contains important minerals like selenium, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage, and phosphorus, which is vital for strong bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a very healthy option. Pork tenderloin is one of the leanest cuts of meat, making it low in fat and high in protein. Roasting is a healthy cooking method that requires minimal added fat.