This oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin is juicy and full of flavor. It’s coated in a sweet, tangy sauce that makes every bite a treat!
Cooking this dish is a breeze, and your kitchen will smell amazing! I love serving it with some corn on the side for a fun meal. Enjoy!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the dish! Look for fresh, bright pink tenderloins. If you can’t find pork, chicken breasts work well as a substitute, but cook them for a shorter time.
BBQ Sauce: Store-bought BBQ sauce saves time, but homemade can add a personal touch. If you’re avoiding sugar, consider using a sugar-free BBQ sauce or homemade sauce with a sugar alternative.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats, but you can swap it for avocado oil or even melted butter for a richer flavor. I often use avocado oil for a high smoke point, perfect for searing.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika, cayenne, or even chili powder can work in a pinch. Garlic and onion powder are usually kitchen staples and add great flavor!
Garnishes: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro brighten the dish. If you don’t have them, green onions or chives also add a nice touch.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Sear on the Pork Tenderloin?
Searing is essential for flavor! Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a cast iron skillet if you have one; it holds heat well and gives a nice crust.
- Make sure your pan is hot before adding the pork—medium-high heat is perfect. A drop of water should sizzle immediately.
- Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until it’s golden brown. Don’t move the pork around too much; let it form a nice crust.
Getting that sear adds so much flavor to your dish, so take your time with this step for the best results!
Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
For The Marinade:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish (optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you can expect to spend around 40 minutes from start to finish, including a little time for resting the meat before serving. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important to ensure your pork tenderloin cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will give your pork amazing flavor!
3. Season the Pork:
Take the pork tenderloins and rub them all over with olive oil. Then, evenly coat the tenderloins with the spice mixture you prepared. Make sure they are well-covered on all sides.
4. Sear the Pork:
Next, heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork tenderloins and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This step adds extra flavor!
5. Add BBQ Sauce:
After searing, brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over the tenderloins. Reserve some sauce on the side for serving later.
6. Bake the Pork:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check!
7. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices stay in the meat, making it tender and juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork tenderloin and serve it with extra BBQ sauce on the side. You can also garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious dinner!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! If you don’t have pork tenderloin, you can substitute with pork loin or even chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) while pork loin may take longer to cook.
Can I Use Homemade BBQ Sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade BBQ sauce works great in this recipe. If your sauce is thick, consider thinning it out with a bit of water or vinegar to make it easier to brush on the tenderloins.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to help keep the meat moist.
What’s the Suggested Side Dish for BBQ Pork Tenderloin?
This dish pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. You could also serve it with cornbread for a true BBQ experience!
