Savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe (2024)

Thank you so much for visiting! This post contains affiliate links. That means I may receive a small amount of compensation if you choose to purchase from my links. I only link to products that I know and love.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

This savory Dijon Tenderloin recipe is a savory, mouthwatering, simple dinner to make. It will make two thin pork tenderloins or one larger tenderloins and is ready in about 40 minutes to enjoy. Save this recipe to Pinterest now so you can make it!

Savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe (1)

I have been craving Dijon mustard for some reason lately. That tangy mustard is just so good – on everything. Additionally, I am a huge fan of pork tenderloin. It is such a succulent cut of pork and I appreciate how tender it can be when you cook it just right. This week I merged my craving for Dijon mustard with two pork tenderloins and this savory, tangy Dijon Pork Tenderloin was a dinner we all loved. My picky children both really enjoyed it, Kevin went back for thirds and well, it just hit the spot for me.

When to serve my savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin

I love to make delicious recipes on the weekends. Sundays have always been a day for me to cook, but I’ve started to work Saturdays into the mix too. We used to go out on Saturday nights or order out because I was tired. However, I’ve found myself much more tired on Thursday and Friday versus Saturdays. In fact Saturdays – especially during the slower gardening seasons and winter when I don’t want to leave the house – have become another favorite day of mine to cook. I made this last Saturday evening and while it is perfect for the weekend, you can also make it in about 40 minutes so it works for a weekday too.

I also think this is good enough to be a small table holiday meal served with some delicious mashed potatoes and a side of green beans. The sauce really creates kind of a wow factor and this is something I could see us eating on Christmas eve or maybe even Easter. Whatever the occasion, this savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin makes me think of cozy weekend meals at home where I truly get to relax with a glass of wine after.

The pork rub

All meat should be flavored even before it is cooked, especially a succulent cult like tenderloin. In this savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe, I have included a rub of dried spices and herbs that will help create a base for the whole recipe. Garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, some coarse sea salt and fresh cracked pepper are combined here to bring out the flavors of the meat in a really beautiful way. They are only enhanced by the sauce that is created through a variety of ingredients and cooking the tenderloin.

Savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe (2)

Savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe (3)

Ingredients that make my Savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe so savory

Unlike a normal Dijon Mustard Pork Tenderloin recipe that uses just a Dijon mustard to create the taste, I’ve layered some flavors in here to enhance the mustard. First, the glaze that goes in the pan also includes honey, which helps to sweeten the flavor a touch. I’ve also included Worcestershire sauce and Soy sauce that help create umami flavors.

Umami is Japanese and translates to “essence of deliciousness.” It is considered the 5th basic taste along with salty, sweet, sour and bitter. I often think if it as that savory, incredible flavor that makes you want to lick the bowl.

Besides these ingredients, there is also a little chicken broth and heavy cream in the sauce for this recipe.

Due to using these other ingredients, the pan sauce for my savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin will be darker than a traditional Dijon sauce. But I promise it is so delectable!

Savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe (4)

The cooking process

There is not a lot to this cooking process. In fact, it is pretty basic. The pork tenderloin is given a nice sear before the pan sauce is created. Then the pork is added back into the pan and covered to cook. I like to cover the pan in this recipe so the sauce does not over cook. This means you might have to cook it a little longer than you might for an uncovered pork tenderloin (25 minutes versus 20), but the results are so moist and flavorful. I truly love how tangy and savory this turned out.

Savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe (5)

Tips for making my Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe

  • I use Grey Poupon Dijon Mustard. It is the easiest to find and we enjoy it. Use whichever Dijon mustard your family prefers.
  • When making this recipe, your sauce will turn out lighter or darker depending on the pan you use and the amount of char it helps to create. I use my Le Creuset Cast Iron coated enamel braiser {HERE}, which is a pan I use for almost everything. It is 3.5 quarts and 15.83 x 12.48 x 5.31. I have one in Deep Teal and White and the only other pans I really use are my Dutch oven or straight cast iron skillet. They’re pricy but I use them almost every day so for me they are worth it.
  • For the seasoning with the meat in the rub, make sure to use coarse sea salt. Using a fine sea salt or, and especially, a table salt will throw off the measurement and the flavor.
  • I would not season this with salt and pepper until it is completely done and then season to taste. Because there is a rub with sea salt and pepper and because we are using soy sauce, there will be a lot of salt in the mix already. Wait until it is on your plate to decide if you want more.
  • Don’t forget the fresh thyme and parsley for topping! it always adds such a beautiful, finished flavor.
  • To save the Dijon Mustard Pork Tenderloin, cut it all into slices and keep in an airtight refrigerator for up to two days. Keep any remaining sauce separate.
  • To reheat, microwave the slices for 1 minute or so until desired temperature. You can also add it to a sheet pan and bake it for 10 minutes at 350 degrees.

Savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe (6)

Looking for more savory dinner ideas?

If you are looking for more dinner ideas, or side dishes, try these:

Dinner
  • Bacon and Mushroom Smothered Chicken {HERE}
  • Classic Steak Au Poivre {HERE}
  • Maple & Plum Skillet Pork Chops {HERE}
  • Chicken Tortilla Soup for Pressure Cooker or Slow Cooker {HERE}
  • Caramelized Wild Mushroom Pasta {HERE}
  • Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hens {HERE}
  • Gouda and Apple Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken {HERE}
Sides
  • Creamy Red Skinned Mashed Potatoes {HERE}
  • French Green Bean Salad {HERE}
  • Butter Roasted Radishes {HERE}
  • Green Beans with Almonds {HERE}
  • Lemon & Herb Baby Potatoes {HERE}
  • Roasted Bacon & Brussel Sprouts {HERE}

Visit on our Social Channels!

Thank you so much for stopping by today, friends! I hope you love my savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe in the oven and that you have a lovely celebration. You can find the full, printable recipe below. Happy Eating!

Savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe (7)

Savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe (8)

This Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe is a savory, mouthwatering, simple dinner to make. It will make two thin pork tenderloins or one larger tenderloins and is ready in about 40 minutes to enjoy. Save this recipe to Pinterest now so you can make it!

Print Pin Rate

Course: dinner

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Dijon Mustard Pork Tenderloin, Dijon Mustard Pork Tenderloin recipe, Dijon pork tenderloin

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Resting: 5 minutes

Servings: 6 - 8 servings

Author: Rachel

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or 3.5 quart braiser pan

Ingredients

Spice rub ingredients

  • 1/2 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tbsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tbsp coarse sea salt
  • 1/2 tbsp dried thyme leaves
  • 1/2 tbsp dried oregano leaves
  • 1 tsp fresh cracked black pepper

Dijon Pork Tenderloin ingredients & pan

  • 2.75 lbs pork tenderloin I had two that equaled this amount per the photos.
  • 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 diced shallot
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 tbsp cornstarch or flour
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves for topping
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley leaves for topping

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

  • Mix together the spice rub and set aside.

  • Pat the pork tenderloin(s) dry and cut off any excess fat pieces. Then rub all sides with the dry spice rub. Set aside.

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce. Set aside.

  • Heat a pan over medium and add the extra virgin olive oil. When shimmering, add the pork tenderloins and sear 3 minutes per wide side. Sear 1 minute per thinner sides if they have not completely browned. Then remove from pan.

  • Turn heat to low. Add the shallot to the pan and cook for 4 minutes until soft. Scrap any larger bits of brown or char as you go.

  • Add the chicken broth and deglaze the pan, scraping the remaining brown bits. Cook for 3 minutes and then add the heavy cream, whisk well.

  • Pour in the dijon mix and whisk well. Simmer together for 2 minutes.

  • Add the pork back in to the pan. Spoon some of the sauce over the pork. Cover and then cook in the oven for 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees. Check with a meat thermometer.

  • Remove the pork from the pan and let it rest for 5 - 10 minutes.

  • Meanwhile, add 1/2 tbsp of corn starch or flour to the pan over low heat and whisk in gently.

  • Cut the pork, drizzle on about 1/3 of the sauce and add on the fresh herbs.

  • Serve additional sauce on the side.

Savory Dijon Pork Tenderloin recipe (2024)

FAQs

Is it better to cook pork tenderloin fast or slow? ›

The size and structure of a tenderloin make it perfect for cooking quickly on high heat. You want to be able to brown the outside while still keeping it a little pink on the inside.

Is it better to sear pork tenderloin before roasting? ›

Sear + Roast

This cooking method is a surefire way to make moist and juicy pork tenderloin without much fuss. Searing the meat first gives it that golden-brown crust before a quick roast in the oven finishes it off. It's an easy, crowd-pleasing meal for any night of the week.

Is it necessary to brown pork tenderloin before baking? ›

Taking a few minutes to sear the outside of the pork on the stove prior to putting it in the oven forms a tasty “crust” that gives the pork an additional dimension of flavor. You'll feel like a pro! DO NOT OVERCOOK THE MEAT. This is the cardinal rule for lean cuts of meat like pork tenderloin.

How do you keep pork tenderloin from getting tough? ›

Brine the pork to maintain moisture by soaking it in a mixture of salt and water, baking soda, vinegar or even milk. You can also pour hot water over the loin to shrink the rind, which can enable better absorption of brine, milk, oil or marinade.

What is the secret to tender pork loin? ›

If you're not confident in your cooking skills, there is one foolproof way to guarantee your pork ends up on the tender side, even if you cook it too long: Soak it in a brine or a marinade. According to Hazel, these kinds of preparations always produce the most tender outcomes.

Is it better to cook a pork tenderloin at 350 or 400? ›

WHAT TEMPERATURE SHOULD I BAKE PORK TENDERLOIN? Pork Tenderloin is a very lean cut of meat so it requires a relatively high oven baking temperature, about 400 degrees F. Lower temperatures require longer cooking times (up to an hour) which dry out the pork.

Do you season pork before or after searing? ›

Season with salt and pepper: Just before cooking, sprinkle the meat with salt and pepper. Wait to do this until you're ready to actually put the meat in the pan, otherwise the salt draws moisture out of the meat and you'll need to pat it dry again.

Should you season pork tenderloin the night before? ›

Going easy on the seasoning.

Try this: Create a paste with garlic and salt and rub it on to the pork loin at least 30 minutes before cooking but ideally overnight. This gives the salt time to penetrate the roast so it's seasoned throughout.

How long do you cook pork tenderloin in the oven at 350 degrees? ›

A good rule of thumb is to cook pork loin 25 minutes per pound at 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). The internal temperature should be at least 145 degrees F (63 degrees C), so use a thermometer to know when it's done. You'll want to let your pork loin rest at least three minutes before serving.

Should you wash pork tenderloin before cooking? ›

Washing beef, pork, lamb, or veal before cooking it is not recommended. Bacteria in raw meat and poultry juices can be spread to other foods, utensils, and surfaces. We call this cross-contamination. Some consumers think they are removing bacteria and making their meat or poultry safe.

Should pork tenderloin be room temperature before cooking? ›

Meat juices inside can not react when we cook cold meat. We need room temperature for a juicy and tender steak. If you want to cook a tasty, delicious pork tenderloin in your oven, keeping all the flavors, you need to take it out of the refrigerator one hour before.

What temperature should pork tenderloin be cooked at in the oven? ›

Pre-heat oven to 325F (165C). Bake pork tenderloin in the oven UNCOVERED for approximately 20-25 MINUTES *PER POUND* (44-55 MINUTES PER KILOGRAM) Or until internal temperature reaches 155F (68C), rested to a final 160F (71C).

What is the best cooking method for loin? ›

CG: Roasting is the most natural way to cook a pork loin, and it's the easiest and the quickest to get into the oven. I like to sear the outside and then roast it, or you can just roast it as is. The indirect method of cooking preserves pork loin's inherent juiciness and tenderness.

What tenderizes pork the best? ›

To tenderize pork before cooking it, try breaking up the tough muscle by hitting it with a meat mallet evenly across the surface of the meat. Then, if you want your pork to be extra tender, you can marinate it in a tenderizing marinade made with acids, like citrus juices, vinegar, or wine.

Why is my pork tenderloin turning brown after cooking? ›

Muscle pH and quality are factors that have large effects on cooked meat color. Pale, soft and exudative (PSE) meat, which results from a rapid decline in pH, makes the myoglobin more heat liable and leads to premature browning in cooked product.

Does pork get more tender the longer you slow cook it? ›

At around 2 hours, your pork chops will be cooked through (145°F) and have a texture similar to chicken breast — tender, but firm. Between 3 to 6 hours, the chops will have a texture closer to pulled pork; it will be easy to cut with a fork and will pull easily from the bone.

How to cook pork loin without drying out? ›

Place your pork loin fat side up in your roasting pan. By having the fat on top, you're allowing the fat layer to baste the roast as it cooks. This is the step that keeps the pork from becoming dry and tough!

Does pork get more tender the longer you simmer it? ›

What happens during slow-cooking, with juice or sauce, is that the collagen that's in the meat's muscular tissues is gradually transformed into some kind of gelatin and thus allows the piece to be more tender, the more it simmers. With pork, we would also find the pork roast, especially the pork shoulder roast.

Does slow cooking pork make it more tender? ›

Your meat will be juicier and more tender

The longer cooking time and the low heat complement each other perfectly. As a result, even though the meat is cooked for far longer, it doesn't dry out because the temperature is low. As a result, this is the best way to retain all the natural juices of the meat.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Prof. An Powlowski

Last Updated:

Views: 6227

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (44 voted)

Reviews: 83% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Prof. An Powlowski

Birthday: 1992-09-29

Address: Apt. 994 8891 Orval Hill, Brittnyburgh, AZ 41023-0398

Phone: +26417467956738

Job: District Marketing Strategist

Hobby: Embroidery, Bodybuilding, Motor sports, Amateur radio, Wood carving, Whittling, Air sports

Introduction: My name is Prof. An Powlowski, I am a charming, helpful, attractive, good, graceful, thoughtful, vast person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.