Grandma renamed this 'Christmas Crust Magic' because she swears it’s the tastiest thing she’s ever had!

Southern pecan-crusted pork loin is a delightful dish that brings a touch of Southern charm to your dinner table. This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want to impress your family or guests with minimal effort. The crunchy pecan crust adds a nutty flavor that complements the juicy pork loin perfectly. I first discovered this dish during a trip to the South, and it quickly became a favorite in our household. It's a great way to elevate a simple pork loin into something special.

This pecan-crusted pork loin pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a light, tangy coleslaw. For a touch of green, consider serving it with sautéed green beans or a fresh garden salad. A glass of chilled white wine or a crisp apple cider would also complement the flavors nicely.

Servings: 4

1 1/2 pounds pork loin
1 cup pecans, finely chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil.

Season the pork loin with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Brush the mustard mixture evenly over the pork loin.

In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans and breadcrumbs.

Press the pecan mixture onto the pork loin, ensuring it is evenly coated.

Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Let the pork loin rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pecan mixture. If you're not a fan of Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with whole grain mustard for a different texture. For a gluten-free version, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or omit them entirely. You can also try this recipe with chicken breasts or a turkey tenderloin for a different protein option.