This oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin is juicy and packed with flavor! It’s coated in a tangy barbecue sauce that caramelizes while cooking, making every bite deliciously sticky.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! Just season the pork, slather on the BBQ sauce, and let the oven do the magic. I love serving it with corn on the cob for a tasty meal! 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and tender, perfect for baking. If you can’t find tenderloin, boneless pork chops work well as a substitute, though they might need less cooking time.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite flavor. Sweet, spicy, or tangy sauces will all enhance the pork. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a low-sugar BBQ sauce or make your own using ketchup, vinegar, and spices.
Olive Oil: This is used for searing. If you want a different flavor, try avocado oil or canola oil, which have higher smoke points.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add great flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, chili powder or regular paprika can be decent alternatives, though without the smokiness.
Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with herbs like parsley or cilantro adds a fresh touch. If you don’t have these, green onions can also add a nice brightness.
How Do I Ensure the Pork Is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy pork tenderloin is to properly season and rest it after cooking. Start by patting it dry to help the spices stick better.
- Generously season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This builds a flavorful crust.
- Sear the pork in a hot skillet to lock in juices. Don’t rush the process; aim for a good golden-brown color.
- Let the pork rest after baking. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy.
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1-1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for smokiness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook. You’ll need an extra 5-10 minutes for the pork to rest before slicing. In total, it should take around 40 minutes to enjoy your delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook the tenderloin.
2. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin:
Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps it brown nicely. Now, season it generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if you like a smoky flavor). Make sure every side is coated!
3. Sear the Pork:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Carefully add the seasoned pork tenderloin to the skillet, searing it for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. This step locks in all the delicious juices!
4. Coat with BBQ Sauce:
Once the pork is nicely seared, pour the BBQ sauce over it, making sure it’s well-coated. This will add a ton of flavor while it bakes in the oven.
5. Bake the Tenderloin:
Now it’s time to transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the pork for 20-25 minutes, or until its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures it’s cooked through but still juicy!
6. Rest and Slice:
When the pork is done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the pork rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce if you’d like. Garnish with fresh herbs for a nice touch. Now, it’s time to dig in and enjoy your delicious oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, you can use pork loin or pork chops, but cooking times may vary. Pork loin will generally require a bit longer in the oven, while pork chops will take less time. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety!
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No worries! You can create a quick marinade using ketchup, honey, vinegar, and spices for a homemade BBQ-style sauce. Simply mix ½ cup ketchup, ¼ cup honey, and 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, plus seasonings like smoked paprika and cayenne to taste.
How to Store Leftover Pork Tenderloin?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying it out.
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill?
Absolutely! Just sear the pork on high heat on the grill for a few minutes per side and then brush with BBQ sauce. Move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking, making sure the internal temperature still reaches 145°F (63°C).
