Picture this: you’ve had a busy day, but you still want a dinner that feels like it could belong in a five-star restaurant.
Enter this herb crusted pork tenderloin with butternut squash.
It’s not just food—it’s a whole vibe. Juicy pork, golden squash, and a crunchy herb crust that makes you feel fancy without needing a culinary degree.
Oh, and did I mention it’s totally keto and low carb?
This is one of those recipes that makes you go, “Wait, I made this?!” Yup, you did, and you’re about to wow everyone from your keto bestie to the pickiest eater in your house.
Ready to bring this healthy masterpiece to life? Let’s do it!
What You’ll Need:
Here’s the star-studded lineup:
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound—this is your MVP)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or whatever healthy fat you’re into)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (crush it a bit for max flavor)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (because a little smoky spice goes a long way)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Butternut Squash:
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed (think little golden nuggets)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: Fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan (because why not?)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Keto superstar: Perfect for your low-carb lifestyle without feeling like you’re missing out.
- Minimal effort, maximum flavor: The oven does most of the work while you chill.
- Crowd-pleaser: Fancy enough for guests, easy enough for a weeknight.
- Healthy and balanced: You’re getting lean protein, wholesome veggies, and tons of flavor in every bite.
- Budget-friendly: Simple ingredients that deliver gourmet results without breaking the bank.
- Customizable: Love a spicy kick? Add a pinch of cayenne. Prefer sweet potatoes over squash? Go for it. This recipe plays well with your preferences.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make extra and enjoy it for days—this dish reheats like a dream.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters will love the combo of tender pork and caramelized squash.
- Simple yet elegant: The herb crust gives a gourmet touch without any fancy skills required.
- Seasonal charm: Butternut squash adds a cozy, fall-inspired vibe that works year-round.
How to Make Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Butternut Squash
1. Get Ready to Roast
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—because cleaning up should always be easy.
2. Love on Your Pork
Pat the pork dry with paper towels (trust me, it helps the seasonings stick). Rub it all over with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Think of this as giving your pork a spa day—it deserves it.
3. Toss That Squash
In a big bowl, toss your butternut squash with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread those beautiful cubes on one side of your baking sheet, leaving room for the pork.
4. Let the Oven Do Its Magic
Place the pork tenderloin on the other side of the sheet, then pop the whole thing in the oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part. (Grab your meat thermometer—it’s a game-changer!) The squash should be caramelized and tender by now.
5. Rest and Slice Like a Pro
Take the pork out and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This is the secret to juicy meat, so don’t skip it! Slice into medallions, plate it up with your squash, and get ready for the applause.
Storage Tips & Meal Prep Ideas
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Use the oven or a skillet to keep the pork juicy and the squash crispy. (Microwave works too, but let’s be real—it’s not the best.)
- Make-ahead hero: Prep the squash and season the pork earlier in the day, then roast when you’re ready to eat.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Serves 4)
- Calories: 286
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
FAQ
1. Can I swap the pork for chicken?
Totally! Chicken breast or thighs work great—just adjust the cooking time.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
You’re in luck: this recipe is already dairy-free unless you add Parmesan.
3. What’s the trick to peeling butternut squash?
Use a sturdy peeler or microwave the squash for 1-2 minutes to soften the skin. Easy peasy.
4. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze the cooked pork and squash separately for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking doesn’t have to be a chore—it can be your moment to shine, experiment, and enjoy.
This herb crusted pork tenderloin with butternut squash is all about bringing together health, flavor, and a little touch of gourmet magic into your everyday life.
Whether you’re here for the keto vibes or just looking for a meal that hits every note, this recipe’s got your back.
So grab your apron, turn up your favorite playlist, and let’s make dinnertime something to savor.
Enjoy nutritious meals with our other easy-to-make low carb dinner recipes, or delicious keto lunches designed to fit any lifestyle.
Perfect for sticking to a meal plan and ensuring you have healthy, satisfying options throughout the day.
Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Butternut Squash
Savor the rich flavors of our Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Butternut Squash recipe.
This low carb, keto-friendly dish is perfect for anyone on a healthy diet and lifestyle, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal with tender pork and sweet butternut squash.
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Optional toppings: Fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan
Instructions
Get Ready to Roast
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—because cleaning up should always be easy.
Love on Your Pork
- Pat the pork dry with paper towels (trust me, it helps the seasonings stick).
- Rub it all over with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Think of this as giving your pork a spa day—it deserves it.
Toss That Squash
- In a big bowl, toss your butternut squash with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread those beautiful cubes on one side of your baking sheet, leaving room for the pork.
Let the Oven Do Its Magic
- Place the pork tenderloin on the other side of the sheet, then pop the whole thing in the oven.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part. (Grab your meat thermometer—it’s a game-changer!) The squash should be caramelized and tender by now.
Rest and Slice Like a Pro
- Take the pork out and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- This is the secret to juicy meat, so don’t skip it!
- Slice into medallions, plate it up with your squash, and get ready for the applause.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 209Total Fat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 17mgSodium: 187mgCarbohydrates: 14gFiber: 4gSugar: 2gProtein: 7g
This data was provided and calculated by Nutritionix