This oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin is juicy and flavorful, marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a weekend barbecue!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the dish. For a lean and tender option, pork tenderloin is ideal. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breasts or turkey tenderloins, but adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may cook faster.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand, or make your own! For a healthier option, choose a low-sugar BBQ sauce. You could also use a mustard-based sauce if you’re looking for a different flavor twist.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika create a well-rounded flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika with a pinch of chili powder will work. For a fresh taste, try using minced garlic and fresh onion instead!
Olive Oil: While I love using olive oil for its flavor and health benefits, you could substitute it with any neutral oil, like canola or vegetable oil. If you’re looking for a buttery flavor, melted butter can also enhance the dish.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Seared Pork Tenderloin?
Searing the pork tenderloin is key for locking in flavor and moisture. Follow these easy steps for a great sear!
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot; you should see a bit of shimmer from the oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, work in batches to maintain high heat.
- Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until a nice golden-brown crust forms—this adds depth to the flavor.
Letting it rest after cooking is crucial too; it allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Tenderloin:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pork tenderloin takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook in the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at roughly 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when your pork tenderloin goes in!
2. Season The Pork:
Take your pork tenderloins and pat them dry with paper towels. Place them in a large bowl or on a cutting board. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Now, rub this tasty mixture all over the pork, making sure it’s evenly coated. This will add lots of flavor!
3. Sear The Pork:
Grab a cast-iron skillet or any oven-safe pan and heat it over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot (you can tell by dropping a little water on it; it should sizzle), place the pork tenderloins in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are beautifully browned. This step helps lock in those yummy juices.
4. Add The BBQ Sauce:
After searing, remove the skillet from the heat. Now, take your BBQ sauce and brush it generously over each pork tenderloin, making sure to cover them well. Yum!
5. Bake In The Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the pork for 20-25 minutes. You want to pull the pork out when its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked meat.
6. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, take the skillet out of the oven and let the pork rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, keeping your pork tender and juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to slice the pork and serve it up! You can drizzle some extra BBQ sauce on top and sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy your delicious, flavorful BBQ pork tenderloin!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pork tenderloin, you can substitute it with pork loin or pork chops. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; make sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 145°F (63°C).
What BBQ Sauce Works Best?
You can use any BBQ sauce you prefer! Whether it’s a sweet, spicy, or tangy sauce, choose one that fits your taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a homemade BBQ sauce for a personal touch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze sliced tenderloin in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill?
Yes! To grill the pork tenderloin, season and sear as usual, then reduce the heat to medium and grill with the lid closed until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Brush BBQ sauce just before it’s finished cooking for extra flavor!
