Classic Skillet Pork Tenderloin
A flavorful and tender pork tenderloin seared in a skillet, seasoned with thyme, sage, garlic powder, and tarragon, finished with lemon for a bright, herbaceous dish.
4 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin approximately 1.5 pounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
- 2 teaspoons Kosher salt
- 1 –2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Fresh thyme sprig for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven.
- Begin by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure the oven reaches full temperature before transferring the pork to avoid uneven cooking.
Prepare the seasoning paste.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil with the fresh thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, dried sage, tarragon, Kosher salt, and lemon juice. Stir until a thick, cohesive herb paste forms.
Season the pork tenderloin.
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry using paper towels. Apply the herb mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pork, pressing the seasoning gently to ensure adherence, including the ends and sides.
Sear the tenderloin.
- Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the seasoned pork tenderloin into the skillet. Sear each side for approximately 1 minute, turning until the entire exterior is evenly browned. This step should take about 4–5 minutes in total.
Transfer to oven and roast.
- Place the skillet directly into the preheated oven (or transfer the pork to a roasting pan if your skillet is not oven-safe). Roast the pork for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) when measured at the thickest point.
Rest and slice.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the pork to rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Garnish with a fresh thyme sprig if desired, then slice into 8–10 equal medallions before serving.
Notes
To make this Classic Skillet Pork Tenderloin gluten-free, ensure that all seasonings and spices, particularly garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs, are certified gluten-free. Some spice blends or bulk seasonings may contain anti-caking agents derived from wheat or be processed in facilities that handle gluten. Always verify ingredient labels or use certified gluten-free alternatives to avoid cross-contamination.