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How to Cook Perfect Pork Tenderloin at Home

Perfect Pork Tenderloin at Home

A juicy pork tenderloin is seasoned with paprika, garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs, seared until browned, and finished in a hot oven. It is ready in about 40 minutes, including resting time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 1- to 1 1/4-pound tenderloin Pork tenderloin
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked or sweet paprika
  • 2 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
Optional Ingredient
  • 1 tablespoon Brown sugar

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Pat the pork tenderloin completely dry, trim away silverskin and excess surface fat, and combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic, Dijon mustard, and herbs. Rub the mixture evenly over the pork.
  2. Let the seasoned pork stand at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes if time permits. Heat an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat and sear the tenderloin for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned.
  3. Transfer the skillet to a 425°F oven and roast for approximately 15–20 minutes, checking the thickest part with an instant-read thermometer. Remove the pork when it reaches 145°F.
  4. Move the tenderloin to a cutting board and rest for 5–10 minutes. Slice into rounds and serve while warm.

Notes

Begin checking the temperature early because tenderloin is lean and can dry out quickly. Do not confuse pork tenderloin with pork loin roast; tenderloin is smaller, leaner, and cooks much faster.