This Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is juicy and packed with flavor! With simple ingredients like tender pork and a tangy barbecue sauce, it’s a hit at any meal.
Who doesn’t love a tasty, easy dinner? I love that it’s quick to prepare, so I can enjoy great food without spending all day in the kitchen. You’ll probably find yourself going back for seconds! 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and tender, great for oven cooking. If you want a different flavor, you could use chicken breast or beef tenderloin, but adjust cooking times for these meats.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own for a personal touch. For a healthier version, look for a low-sugar BBQ sauce. You can also try a spicy sauce for a kick, or a mustard-based sauce for a unique twist!
Olive Oil: I like using olive oil for its flavor and health benefits, but you can substitute it with canola oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer.
Spices: The garlic and onion powders add essential flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works, but consider adding a little liquid smoke for that smoky taste. Herbs like thyme or rosemary can also be a great addition.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is optional but adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, lemon juice or white vinegar can work as substitutes to add acidity to balance the flavors.
How Do I Perfectly Sear the Pork Tenderloin?
Searing the pork is key to locking in juices and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the pork. You want a good sizzle when it hits the pan!
- Pat the meat dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear without steaming.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until nicely caramelized, but don’t overcrowd the pan; this can lower the temperature.
- Flip it gently using tongs to avoid losing those browned bits stuck to the pan, which also add flavor.
Following these steps will give your pork a nice golden crust and keep it juicy inside!
Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lb pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for tang)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 25 minutes to bake. So in total, you’ll spend around 35 minutes from start to finish, plus a little extra time for resting before you slice and serve. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for baking your pork tenderloin.
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This blend of spices will give your pork a delicious flavor!
3. Get the Pork Ready:
Next, take your pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick. Then, rub the olive oil all over the pork. This will keep it moist while cooking.
4. Season the Pork:
Sprinkle the spice mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. You want it to be well-seasoned and flavorful!
5. Sear the Pork:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear it for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned. This adds a great texture and flavor.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Carefully transfer the seared pork tenderloin to a baking dish. Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over the top, but save some sauce for later to add more flavor when serving.
7. Bake the Pork:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll want to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
8. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the pork from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps the juices settle, making it more tender when you slice it.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
After resting, give your pork a final brush with BBQ sauce if you’d like, then slice it up. Serve it with your favorite sides for a delicious meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness, you can use pork loin or pork chops instead. Just be aware that cooking times may vary; larger cuts may take longer to cook, so be sure to check the internal temperature for doneness.
What BBQ Sauce Should I Use?
You can use any BBQ sauce you love! If you prefer a spicy kick, opt for a spicy BBQ sauce, or for a sweet touch, go for a honey or maple BBQ sauce. Homemade BBQ sauce works great too; just adjust the flavor to your taste!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cooked pork for longer storage; just make sure to wrap it tightly. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating to keep it moist!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Baking Dish?
Sure! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or sweet potatoes can make a delicious one-pan meal. Just chop them into even pieces, toss them with a bit of olive oil and seasoning, and place them in the baking dish alongside the pork. Adjust the baking time if needed to ensure everything cooks through properly.
