This oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin is juicy and full of flavor. The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce makes every bite delicious and perfect for any meal!
I love how easy this dish is to make. Just season, bake, and slather on that sauce. You’ll want to keep some extra napkins handy for all the yummy goodness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean, tender, and cooks quickly. If you can’t find it, chicken breast can be a good substitute, though adjust cooking time since chicken needs to reach 165°F.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite type for a personal touch! If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider a low-sugar BBQ sauce or a homemade sauce using ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and spices.
Olive Oil: My favorite choice for cooking, but you can substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil. Each adds a unique flavor.
Spice Mix: Garlic and onion powders are pantry staples, but you can replace them with fresh minced garlic and chopped onions. Smoked paprika adds depth, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika will work too—just less smoky!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sear on Pork Tenderloin?
Getting that nice browned exterior on the pork is crucial for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet. Preheat it for a few minutes over medium-high heat.
- Add a touch of oil and let it heat until shimmering—this helps to prevent sticking.
- Place the pork in the skillet and don’t move it around too soon. Let it sear for 2-3 minutes before flipping.
- Make sure to sear all four sides for an even crust.
Once seared, pouring BBQ sauce on top and transferring it to the oven ensures the pork stays moist while soaking up that delicious flavor. Happy cooking!
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh herbs (like parsley) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you can expect to spend about 40 minutes from start to finish! This includes prep, cooking, and resting time, making it a quick yet flavorful option for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for your pork tenderloin when you’re finished prepping!
2. Mix the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir these ingredients together to form a spice rub. This flavorful mix will give the pork a delicious kick!
3. Coat the Pork:
Take the pork tenderloin and rub the spice mixture all over it. Make sure the pork is evenly coated with the rub for the best flavor.
4. Sear the Pork:
Next, heat a cast-iron skillet or any oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the pork tenderloin to the pan. Sear it on all sides for about 2-3 minutes until it’s browned and looks tasty.
5. Add BBQ Sauce:
After the pork is seared, pour half a cup of BBQ sauce over it, making sure it’s well covered. This will add so much flavor as it cooks in the oven!
6. Bake in the Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the pork for about 20-25 minutes. You want to cook it until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for juicy tenderness.
7. Let It Rest:
Once the pork is done cooking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it extra juicy! Drizzle with a little more BBQ sauce if you like, before slicing.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork and serve it warm. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Pork Tenderloin with your favorite sides!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While tenderloin is great for this recipe, you can substitute it with pork loin or pork chops. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade sauce by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and a splash of vinegar. Adjust the ingredients to taste until you achieve your desired flavor. Alternatively, a teriyaki or honey mustard glaze can also work well!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently in the oven or in the microwave. For best results, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the pork in the spice rub and BBQ sauce the night before and store it in the fridge. This will help the flavors soak in. Just let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before searing and baking it for best results.
