Perfect Pan-Seared Pork Tenderloin Steaks

Steps

1. 1

   Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit (140 °C) (135 degrees Celsius (275 °F)).

2. 2

   Set a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and lightly spray the rack with vegetable oil spray.

3. 3

   Pound each pork tenderloin to a uniform 1-inch thickness. Halve each tenderloin crosswise to create four steaks total.

4. 4

   Sprinkle each steak evenly with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.

5. 5

   Place the steaks on the prepared wire rack and cook in the oven until the meat registers between 137 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 °C) (58 to 60 degrees Celsius (136–140 °F)), approximately 25 to 35 minutes.

   Start 35-minute timer
6. 6

   Move the steaks to one side of the rack. Line the cleared side of the rack with a double layer of paper towels.

7. 7

   Transfer the steaks onto the paper towels, cover them with another double layer of paper towels, and let them stand for 10 minutes.

   Start 10-minute timer
8. 8

   Pat the steaks thoroughly until the surfaces are very dry.

9. 9

   Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is just smoking.

10. 10

    Increase the heat to high, place the steaks in the skillet, and sear until well browned on both sides, about 1 to 2 minutes per side.

    Start 2-minute timer
11. 11

    Transfer the seared steaks to a carving board and let them stand for 5 minutes.

    Start 5-minute timer
12. 12

    Slice the steaks against the grain into 3/4-inch thick pieces and transfer to a serving platter. Season with additional salt to taste and serve.