Parmesan-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Chimichurri Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy pork tenderloin encrusted with a savory Parmesan crust, paired with a zesty Brazilian-style chimichurri sauce bursting with fresh herbs and garlic. This brazilian-inspired pork ready in about 45 minutes blends pork tenderloin, grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 400 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves 4 Brazilian cuisine 400 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F. Pat dry 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin and season with 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper. Mix 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese with 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish.
  2. Step 2: Brush pork tenderloin all over with 2 tbsp olive oil, then press it firmly into the Parmesan-panko mixture to coat evenly. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Step 3: Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Remove and let rest for 10 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Meanwhile, whisk together 1 tbsp olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 cup chopped parsley, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes in a small bowl to make chimichurri sauce.
  5. Step 5: Slice pork tenderloin and serve drizzled with the chimichurri sauce.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Parmesan-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Chimichurri Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (15 min prep + 30 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Parmesan-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Chimichurri Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Parmesan-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Chimichurri Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Parmesan-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Chimichurri Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Parmesan-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Chimichurri Sauce?

Brazilian pork like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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