Oven-baked pork tenderloin is a succulent and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe features a perfectly seasoned pork tenderloin that is baked to juicy perfection, offering a tender and delicious meal your whole family will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: Requires minimal effort and straightforward ingredients.
- Versatile: Perfect for a quick dinner or a gourmet-style meal.
- Healthy: Low in fat and packed with protein.
- Customizable: Easy to adjust seasoning to suit your taste.
- Impressive Presentation: Sliced pork tenderloin looks elegant on the plate.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pork tenderloin
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and trim any excess fat or silver skin.
- Rub the tenderloin with olive oil, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Generously rub this mixture all over the tenderloin.
- Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, then serve.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix for a kick of heat.
- Herb-Crusted: Add dried rosemary, thyme, or sage to the rub for a more aromatic flavor.
- Honey Glazed: Brush the pork with honey or maple syrup in the last 5 minutes of baking for a sweet glaze.
- Stuffed: Slice the tenderloin lengthwise, stuff with spinach and cheese, and secure with toothpicks before baking.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap slices in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
How do I know when the pork tenderloin is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should read 145°F for perfectly cooked pork.
Should I cover the pork while baking?
No, leaving it uncovered helps achieve a nice crust on the outside.
Can I marinate the pork tenderloin?
Yes, marinating for 1-2 hours with your favorite marinade can add extra flavor.
Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
Yes, but cooking times will vary as pork loin is larger and thicker.
What’s the best way to slice pork tenderloin?
Use a sharp knife and cut against the grain into ½-inch thick slices.
Can I cook pork tenderloin in advance?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh to retain its juicy texture.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad are great options.
Can I use a skillet instead of baking?
Yes, sear the pork in a skillet, then finish in the oven or continue cooking on low heat.
How do I prevent the pork from drying out?
Don’t overcook and let the pork rest after baking to retain its juices.
Can I cook two tenderloins at the same time?
Yes, ensure they’re not touching and monitor their temperature to avoid overcooking.
Conclusion
Oven-baked pork tenderloin is a simple yet impressive dish that never fails to please. Its juicy and tender texture, combined with a perfectly seasoned crust, makes it a standout meal. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Print
Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This oven-baked pork tenderloin is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Seasoned with a blend of spices and roasted to perfection, it’s an easy and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Pork: Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the pork tenderloins. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper.
- Season Pork: Rub the pork tenderloins with olive oil, then evenly coat them with the seasoning mix, pressing it into the meat.
- Sear (Optional): Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and sear the pork tenderloins on all sides until browned, about 2 minutes per side. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if desired.
- Bake: Place the pork tenderloins in the preheated oven (either in the skillet if oven-safe or transfer to a baking dish) and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest: Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat
Notes
- For added flavor, you can marinate the pork tenderloins in the seasoning mix and olive oil for up to 4 hours before cooking.
- If you prefer a sweeter glaze, consider brushing the pork with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard during the last 10 minutes of baking.
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