This Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is a juicy and flavorful dish that’s super easy to make. Just coat the tenderloin in tasty BBQ sauce and pop it in the oven! Yum!
Honestly, it’s one of my go-to dinner ideas. The smell alone makes everyone in the house excited. Serve it with some veggies, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s sure to please!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is very tender and cooks quickly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute it with chicken breast or turkey tenderloin, but adjust cooking time as they may need less time in the oven.
BBQ Sauce: Feel free to use any BBQ sauce you love! If you’re short on time, store-bought is just fine. For a healthier twist, look for lower-sugar or homemade versions. You can also try different sauces like teriyaki or honey mustard for a unique flavor.
Olive Oil: I recommend using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor, but you can swap it with avocado oil or any neutral oil if needed. It’s great for searing the meat.
Spices: The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika adds depth to the dish. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works too, though smoked will give that lovely BBQ flavor. You can also add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat!
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on My Pork Tenderloin?
Searing is essential for locking in juices and adding flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork. A drop of water should sizzle immediately.
- Pat the pork dry with paper towels – moisture can prevent a good sear.
- Sear each side for 2-3 minutes without moving it. This creates a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you’re cooking more than two tenderloins, do it in batches for best results. Set aside seared pork on a plate before baking.
Following this will help you achieve that delicious, caramelized outer layer! Once seared, you can finish cooking in the oven for a tender inside.
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
For the Spice Rub:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (like cilantro or parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish comes together in about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 25-30 minutes in the oven for cooking. After that, you’ll just need a few minutes for the pork to rest before slicing. Total time is around 40 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help achieve a nice, juicy tenderloin with a great sear.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir so that all the spices are mixed up nicely.
3. Season the Pork:
Take your pork tenderloins and rub them with the olive oil to help the spices stick. Then, sprinkle your spice mixture all over the pork, making sure to coat it evenly for maximum flavor.
4. Sear the Pork:
Now, it’s time to sear! Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the pork tenderloins in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned and beautiful.
5. Add the BBQ Sauce:
Remove the skillet from the heat and brush the BBQ sauce over the pork tenderloins. Ensure they are well coated for that sweet, smoky goodness.
6. Bake in the Oven:
Place the skillet into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes. You want the internal temperature of the pork to reach 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
7. Rest Before Slicing:
Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the pork rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and tasty.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork tenderloin and serve it drizzled with a little extra BBQ sauce on top. If you like, garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pork tenderloin, you can substitute it with pork loin or pork chops. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as thicker cuts like pork loin may need a bit longer to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce on Hand?
No problem! You can quickly make a simple homemade BBQ sauce by mixing together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your taste!
Can I Prepare the Pork in Advance?
Yes, you can marinate the pork tenderloins in the spice mix and BBQ sauce up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to infuse even more!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave or gently in a skillet with a little water or BBQ sauce to keep them moist.
