Pan-Seared Pork Medallions with Hidden Spice Rub

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-25 · Updated 2026-04-25

Tender pork medallions pan-seared and coated in a subtle blend of warming spices that reveal their flavors gradually. This general-inspired pork ready in about 20 minutes pairs smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 3, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart.

Ingredients

• 1 lb, sliced into 1-inch medallions pork tenderloin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp, chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, mix 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Pat dry 1 lb pork tenderloin medallions and rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the pork medallions in a single layer, cooking for 3 minutes without moving until a golden crust forms.
3. Step 3: Flip the medallions and add 1 tbsp unsalted butter to the pan. Continue cooking for 3 more minutes, spooning melted butter over the pork to baste and enhance flavor.
4. Step 4: Remove pork to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.