Go Back
Sliced garlic herb pork tenderloin with golden crust on white plate

Garlic Herb Pork Tenderloin

Tender, juicy pork tenderloin coated in an aromatic garlic-herb crust that's both elegant and surprisingly easy to prepare. The Dijon mustard acts as the perfect adhesive for the fresh herb mixture, creating a golden, flavorful crust that seals in moisture. A restaurant-quality main course that's ready in just 40 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: French
Calories: 363

Ingredients
  

For the Pork
  • 700 g pork tenderloin 2 small or 1 large
  • 30 g Dijon mustard
  • 15 ml olive oil for searing
For the Herb Crust
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • 30 g fresh rosemary finely chopped
  • 20 g fresh thyme leaves
  • 15 g fresh sage finely chopped
  • 30 ml olive oil
  • 10 g fine sea salt
  • 4 g freshly ground black pepper

Method
 

Preheat and Prepare
  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Trim the silver skin from the pork tenderloin by sliding a sharp knife underneath it and angling the blade upward to remove it completely—this prevents the meat from curling during cooking.
Make the Herb Paste
  1. Combine 6 minced garlic cloves, 30g rosemary, 20g thyme leaves, 15g sage, 30ml olive oil, 10g sea salt, and 4g black pepper in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly to form a thick, aromatic paste.
Coat the Tenderloin
  1. Brush the trimmed pork tenderloin evenly with 30g Dijon mustard on all sides. Press the herb mixture firmly all over the mustard-coated surface, creating an even coating that adheres well.
Sear for Color
  1. Heat 15ml olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the herb-crusted tenderloin in the hot skillet and sear for 2 minutes per side, turning gently, until the herb crust is golden brown.
Roast to Perfection
  1. Transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven. Roast for 15 to 18 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) when measured with an instant-read thermometer at the thickest part.
Rest and Slice
  1. Remove from the oven and let the tenderloin rest on a cutting board for 8 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice crosswise into medallions and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Silver skin is a thin, silvery membrane that doesn't break down during cooking and will cause the meat to curl—always remove it completely before seasoning
  • The Dijon mustard serves two purposes: it adds a subtle tangy flavor and acts as an adhesive to keep the herb crust attached during searing and roasting
  • Pork tenderloin is extremely lean with minimal fat marbling, so it's crucial not to overcook it—remove it from the oven at 63°C as it will continue cooking during the resting period
  • Resting the meat for the full 8 minutes ensures evenly pink, juicy slices throughout—cutting too early will cause the juices to run out onto the cutting board
  • This pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed cauliflower, or a simple green salad for a complete meal