When it comes to easy weeknight dinners that taste like they’ve been slow cooked for hours, pork tenderloin is always a winner. This cut of meat is lean, tender, and full of flavor when prepared the right way. Today, I’m sharing a simple yet irresistible recipe: Pork Tenderloin with Seasoned Rub. With a homemade spice blend, a quick pan sear, and a short roast in the oven, you’ll have a juicy, perfectly seasoned tenderloin ready to serve in less than 45 minutes.
What makes this dish special is the seasoning rub. Instead of buying pre-made mixes, you create your own using pantry spices like garlic powder, oregano, cumin, coriander, and thyme. These herbs and spices bring warmth, earthiness, and just the right kick to the pork. The result is a beautifully golden brown crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender.
This recipe is versatile, too. Pair your pork tenderloin with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a complete dinner that feels gourmet but requires minimal effort. It’s also a fantastic option for meal prep; leftovers taste just as good reheated the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: From stovetop to oven in under an hour.
- Healthy: Pork tenderloin is a lean protein that fits into a balanced diet.
- Flavor packed: The homemade rub creates layers of savory, aromatic flavor.
- Family friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the juicy, tender slices.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder; For a punch of savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Adds a Mediterranean flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Earthy and warm.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander; Brings subtle citrusy notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme; A classic herb for meats.
- Salt; To taste, for enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 1/4 pounds pork tenderloin; The star of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil; For searing the meat.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic; Fresh garlic for a final burst of flavor.
Step by Step Instructions
1Preheat and Mix the Rub: Preheat your oven to 450°F. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, oregano, cumin, coriander, thyme, and salt. Mix until evenly blended; this will be your seasoning rub.
2Season the Pork: Pat your pork tenderloin dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle the rub generously over the entire surface, pressing it gently into the meat so it adheres well.
3Sear the Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Carefully place the pork tenderloin in the pan and sear each side for about 10 minutes total, using tongs to turn the meat until it’s golden brown.
4Roast to Perfection: Transfer the seared tenderloin to a roasting pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Remove from the oven and let the meat rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
5Slice and Serve: Cut the pork tenderloin into ½ inch slices and serve warm. Pair with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Pork is juicy and perfect at 145°F.
- Let it rest before slicing so the juices stay inside the meat.
- Double the rub and save extra for chicken or roasted vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This pork tenderloin is delicious with:
- Roasted baby potatoes and green beans.
- Garlic mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli.
- A fresh side salad with vinaigrette.
Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or hosting guests, this Pork Tenderloin with Seasoned Rub is a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. It’s proof that a simple combination of spices and good technique can turn an everyday cut of meat into something truly special.
Pork Tenderloin with Seasoned Rub
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt to taste
- 1 1/4 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, oregano, cumin, coriander, thyme, and salt. Mix well with a fork to form a seasoning rub.
- Sprinkle the spice rub over the pork tenderloin and rub it in evenly on all sides, pressing gently so the seasoning sticks.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Place the tenderloin in the skillet and sear for about 10 minutes, turning with tongs to brown all sides.
- Transfer the pork to a roasting pan and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
