Thyme Pecan Crusted Pork

Featured in: Warm Rustic Bake & Roast Meals

This dish features a succulent pork tenderloin coated in a savory blend of fresh thyme, chopped pecans, Parmesan, and spices. The pork is seared in olive oil until golden, then roasted to juicy perfection. The crust adds a delightful crunch while the thyme imparts fragrant herbal notes. Letting the pork rest after roasting ensures tender, moist medallions ideal for a comforting centerpiece. Pair with roasted vegetables or mashed sweet potatoes for a complete meal.

Updated on Mon, 08 Dec 2025 10:37:00 GMT
Golden-crusted Thyme and Pecan Pork Tenderloin, sliced, ready for a comforting American dinner. Save
Golden-crusted Thyme and Pecan Pork Tenderloin, sliced, ready for a comforting American dinner. | basilpeak.com

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 first cooked this recipe to impress my family and it quickly became a favorite for weekend dinners

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

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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
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Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.
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Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.
Check price on Amazon
Savory Thyme and Pecan Crusted Pork Tenderloin, expertly seared and roasted to juicy perfection. Save
Savory Thyme and Pecan Crusted Pork Tenderloin, expertly seared and roasted to juicy perfection. | basilpeak.com

This dish always brings the family together especially during the holiday season when everyone looks forward to a warm meal

Notes

Substitute walnuts for pecans if desired Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed sweet potatoes For a hint of sweetness add 1 tsp honey to the egg-mustard mixture Pairs well with a light Pinot Noir or a crisp apple cider

Required Tools

Large ovenproof skillet Shallow bowls Tongs Knife and cutting board Meat thermometer (recommended)

Nutritional Information

Calories 370 Total Fat 25 g Carbohydrates 6 g Protein 32 g

Delicious, gluten-free Thyme and Pecan Pork Tenderloin, served with suggested roasted vegetables and wine. Save
Delicious, gluten-free Thyme and Pecan Pork Tenderloin, served with suggested roasted vegetables and wine. | basilpeak.com
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Slow cook soups, stews, roasts, and casseroles effortlessly for comforting meals with rich, developed flavors.
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This flavorful pork tenderloin is perfect for both weekday dinners and special occasions Enjoy every bite

Questions & Answers

What cut of pork is best for this dish?

Pork tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and even cooking, allowing the crust to adhere perfectly.

How do I ensure the crust sticks well?

Brushing the pork with an egg and Dijon mustard mixture before pressing on the pecan-thyme crust helps the coating adhere firmly.

Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?

Yes, walnuts are a great alternative that provides similar crunch and richness to the crust.

What is the recommended internal temperature for cooking pork tenderloin?

Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe, juicy pork.

How should the pork rest after roasting?

Let the pork rest loosely covered with foil for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before slicing.

Thyme Pecan Crusted Pork

Tender pork loin with a crunchy thyme-pecan crust, seared and roasted for delicious flavor.

Time to Prep
15 min
Time to Cook
25 min
Overall Time
40 min
Recipe by Hailey Evans


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Portions 4 Number of Servings

Diet Preferences No Gluten, Reduced-Carb

What You'll Need

Pork

01 1 pork tenderloin (about 1–1.25 lbs), trimmed

Crust

01 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
02 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves or 2 tsp dried thyme
03 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 1 tsp garlic powder
05 1/2 tsp kosher salt
06 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Binding

01 1 large egg
02 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

For Searing

01 2 tbsp olive oil

Steps

Step 01

Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Step 02

Prepare pork: Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and season evenly with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 03

Mix crust ingredients: Combine chopped pecans, thyme, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl.

Step 04

Prepare binding mixture: Beat the egg with Dijon mustard in a separate bowl until smooth.

Step 05

Coat pork with binding: Brush the pork tenderloin evenly with the egg and mustard mixture on all sides.

Step 06

Apply crust: Press the tenderloin firmly into the pecan mixture, turning to coat all sides thoroughly.

Step 07

Sear pork: Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides until golden, approximately 2–3 minutes per side.

Step 08

Roast: Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 15–18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Step 09

Rest pork: Remove from oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5–10 minutes.

Step 10

Slice and serve: Slice into medallions and serve warm.

Tools Needed

  • Large ovenproof skillet
  • Shallow bowls
  • Tongs
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Meat thermometer

Allergy Advice

Look into all items for allergy risks and talk with a healthcare provider with any concerns.
  • Contains tree nuts (pecans), dairy (Parmesan), and egg. Check labels for gluten if sensitive.

Nutritional Details (by portion)

Details here are informative and do not replace personalized medical guidance.
  • Caloric Value: 370
  • Fats: 25 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Proteins: 32 g