Roast Pork Loin with Mustard Crust

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F. Pat the 2 lb pork loin dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

Step 2

In a small bowl, mix 3 tbsp Dijon mustard, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme. Spread this mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pork.

Step 3

Press 0.5 cup breadcrumbs onto the mustard-coated pork, covering all sides. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 4

Sear the pork in the hot skillet until the crust is golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. The crust should look toasted and crisp.

Step 5

Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast until the internal temperature reaches 145°F, about 20-25 minutes. The crust will be deep golden and the juices run clear.

Step 6

Remove the pork from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. While resting, add 0.5 cup heavy cream to the skillet and simmer over medium heat, scraping up browned bits, until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 7

Slice the pork into 0.5-inch thick pieces and serve with the cream sauce. Garnish with orange slices and extra thyme if desired.