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Juicy pork medallions resting in a skillet, caramelized edges glistening beside herb‑topped potato rounds.

Classic Skillet Pork Tenderloin

Classic Skillet Pork Tenderloin is a simple, elegant dinner made with tender pork, fresh thyme, savory herbs, olive oil, and lemon. It is seared in a skillet, finished in the oven, and sliced into juicy medallions for serving.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Classic Skillet Pork Tenderloin
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 pork tenderloin approximately 1.5 lbs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil divided
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme finely chopped
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried sage
  • 1 tsp dried tarragon
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 to 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • Fresh thyme sprig for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the fresh thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, dried sage, dried tarragon, kosher salt, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  • Stir the mixture until a thick paste forms.
  • Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the entire pork tenderloin, including the ends, pressing it gently into the meat so it adheres well.
  • Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Place the pork tenderloin in the hot skillet and sear for 4 to 5 minutes, turning as needed so all sides are evenly browned.
  • Transfer the skillet to the oven, or move the pork tenderloin to a roasting pan if the skillet is not oven-safe.
  • Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pork is cooked through and reaches the desired internal temperature.
  • Remove the pork from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  • Slice the pork tenderloin into 8 to 10 medallions.
  • Garnish with a fresh thyme sprig before serving.

Notes

This recipe is naturally gluten free, but to ensure it remains fully gluten free, confirm that the garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, and any packaged seasonings are certified gluten free, as ingredients and manufacturing practices may vary by brand. Also make sure any side dishes served with the pork are gluten free if needed.