This Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is juicy and full of flavor! It’s coated in a tangy BBQ sauce that caramelizes beautifully as it cooks.
Cooking this dish is a breeze—I just pop it in the oven and let it do its thing. The smell is amazing, and it tastes even better than it smells! 🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloins: These are the star of the dish! Look for fresh, pink tenderloins. If you want a leaner option, turkey tenderloins can be a good substitute, though they require careful cooking to avoid drying out.
Barbecue Sauce: The flavor of your barbecue sauce can change the whole dish, so use your favorite! If you want to make it healthier, opt for a low-sugar version or try making your own. Just mix ketchup, vinegar, honey, and spices!
Olive Oil: This is great for cooking, but you can use other oils like canola or avocado oil. Just ensure they can handle high heat when searing the meat.
Spices: The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika adds depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine, but it won’t have that smoky flavor. Try swapping it with cayenne for a bit of heat.
How Do I Get Perfectly Seared Pork Tenderloins?
Searing creates a delicious crust that seals in juices—this step is key! Here’s how you do it:
- Use a large skillet that can go in the oven, like cast-iron, for even heat. Heat it over medium-high until hot.
- Add a splash of oil and ensure it coats the bottom of the pan.
- Carefully place the tenderloins in the skillet and let them cook without moving them for 2-3 minutes on each side for a lovely golden brown crust. No peeking!
Letting the skillet rest in the oven ensures your pork cooks evenly and stays moist. This method helps it reach that perfect internal temperature without drying out. Enjoy your cooking time!
Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pork tenderloins (approximately 1 pound each)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spice Rub:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Garnish:
- Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or cilantro)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook. Overall, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish, with some resting time after cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your pork tenderloins cook evenly and nicely.
2. Prepare the Pork Tenderloins:
Take the pork tenderloins and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better. You want them nice and dry!
3. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt to form a tasty spice rub. This blend will give your pork a lot of flavor!
4. Season the Pork:
Rub the spice mixture all over the pork tenderloins. Make sure they are evenly covered so every bite is delicious!
5. Sear the Tenderloins:
In a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, sear the tenderloins for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they get a lovely golden brown color.
6. Add Barbecue Sauce:
Pour half of the barbecue sauce over the tenderloins in the skillet, making sure they are nicely coated. Save the other half for later!
7. Bake in the Oven:
Now, it’s time to transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the tenderloins for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). You want it juicy but fully cooked!
8. Finish with More Sauce:
Once the pork is cooked, take the skillet out of the oven. Brush the remaining barbecue sauce over the tenderloins to add extra flavor.
9. Let It Rest:
Let the pork rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making the pork tender and juicy.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork tenderloin into pieces and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a lovely touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is ideal for this recipe, you can also use pork loin or pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time as pork loin may take longer, and pork chops could require less time depending on thickness. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What Barbecue Sauce Works Best?
Feel free to use your favorite brand! For a unique twist, try a fruity barbecue sauce like peach or mango for added sweetness, or opt for a spicy one if you prefer a kick. Just remember that the flavor of the sauce will infuse the pork, so choose one you really enjoy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing the sliced pork in single portions. Reheat by thawing in the fridge overnight and warming gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of barbecue sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can pre-season the pork and let it marinate in the spice rub for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before cooking for better results. Also, you can cook it in advance and reheat it just before serving—it still tastes delicious!
