This recipe for the Best Baked Pork Tenderloin delivers a tender, juicy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bound to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with simple steps and minimal prep.
- Flavorful: The tenderloin is seasoned to perfection for a robust and savory flavor.
- Healthy: Lean pork tenderloin is a great source of protein and low in fat.
- Versatile: Easily pairs with your favorite side dishes, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes.
- Impressive: A stunning dish to serve for gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pork tenderloin
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and rub it with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture all over the tenderloin.
- Place the pork tenderloin on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the tenderloin rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Variations
- Herbed Delight: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix for a fragrant touch.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy flavor profile.
- Honey Mustard Glaze: Brush the tenderloin with a mixture of honey and mustard before baking.
- Citrus Infusion: Squeeze fresh lemon or orange juice over the pork before cooking for a bright and tangy flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the tenderloin tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave or oven at a low temperature to prevent drying out.
FAQs
How do I know when the pork tenderloin is fully cooked?
The pork tenderloin is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and has a slight blush in the center.
Can I use a marinade instead of a dry rub?
Yes, marinating the pork tenderloin adds additional flavor and helps keep it moist.
What sides go well with baked pork tenderloin?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a crisp green salad are excellent choices.
Can I cook the pork tenderloin in a skillet instead of baking?
Yes, you can sear the pork in a skillet and then finish cooking it in the oven or on the stovetop over low heat.
How do I prevent the pork from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and let the pork rest after baking to retain its juices.
Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
Pork loin is larger and thicker, so it will require a longer cooking time and slightly different preparation.
What kind of seasoning works best?
A combination of garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper works well, but you can customize it to your preference.
Should I cover the pork tenderloin while baking?
It’s not necessary to cover the tenderloin. Leaving it uncovered allows it to develop a nice crust.
Can I add vegetables to the pan while baking?
Yes, adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts to the baking pan makes a complete one-pan meal.
How long should the pork rest after cooking?
Let the pork tenderloin rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute for a tender result.
Conclusion
This Best Baked Pork Tenderloin recipe is a game-changer for anyone seeking a flavorful, tender, and easy-to-make main course. With endless variations and easy prep, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Print
Best Baked Pork Tenderloin
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This juicy and tender pork tenderloin is baked to perfection with a simple seasoning blend that highlights the natural flavors of the meat. It’s an easy, foolproof recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The result is a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth pork dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Tenderloins: Trim any silver skin from the pork tenderloins. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season the Meat: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Rub the tenderloins with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both.
- Sear for Flavor (Optional): Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloins on all sides for about 2 minutes per side to lock in flavor.
- Bake the Pork: Transfer the tenderloins to the prepared baking sheet. If using honey or brown sugar, drizzle it over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest and Slice: Remove from the oven and let the pork rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Serve: Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and serve with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- To ensure juicy pork, use a meat thermometer and avoid overcooking.
- For a glaze, mix 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard with 2 tablespoons honey and brush it over the tenderloins during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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