This Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is juicy and bursting with flavor! Slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners or weekend get-togethers.
Cooking it in the oven means you can relax while it transforms into a tasty meal. I love pairing it with rice or veggies—simple and satisfying! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the dish! It’s lean and cooks quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, you could substitute with chicken breast or pork loin, though cooking times may vary slightly.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for the best flavor. Whether it’s tangy, sweet, or spicy, it should match your taste! If you want a healthier option, consider a homemade version or use sugar-free BBQ sauce for fewer calories.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds moisture and helps the rub stick. If you’re looking to change it up, avocado oil or canola oil work well too. I’ve used grapeseed oil in a pinch, and it was delicious!
Spices: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika bring great flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika adds color, while cumin gives a warm depth. You could also use fresh garlic and onion if preferred—just be aware they may cook faster!
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on the Pork Tenderloin?
Searing is important because it locks in the flavors and creates a beautiful crust. For a perfect sear, follow these steps:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the tenderloin. A drop of water should sizzle and evaporate quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; sear one piece at a time if needed.
- Let the pork cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on each side to develop a nice brown color.
- Use tongs to turn the pork carefully; avoid using a fork as it can pierce and let juices escape.
Remember, patience pays off here! Searing adds that restaurant-quality touch to your dish.
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pork tenderloin recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. With a bit of resting time, you’ll have it ready in under an hour. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the pork cooks evenly and gets that lovely roast flavor.
2. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin:
Take your pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. If there’s any excess fat, trim it away for a leaner dish.
3. Make the Seasoning Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will be your flavor-packed rub for the pork.
4. Season the Pork:
Now, take the seasoning rub and spread it evenly all over the surface of the pork tenderloin. Make sure every inch is covered for maximum flavor!
5. Sear the Pork:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet (a cast iron skillet works great!) over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, place the pork tenderloin in and sear it on all sides for about 2-3 minutes until it’s a nice brown color.
6. Add BBQ Sauce:
After searing, remove the skillet from the heat. Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce all over the pork tenderloin. This will give it a tasty glaze while it bakes!
7. Bake in the Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the pork for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures the pork is cooked safely while remaining juicy.
8. Let it Rest:
Once baked, take the skillet out of the oven and let the pork rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps all the juices stay inside, making each bite delicious!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork tenderloin and serve it with any extra BBQ sauce on the side. If you like, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is the ideal choice for tenderness, you can also use pork loin or pork shoulder. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C) safe for consumption.
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce or want to try something different, you can use a homemade mixture of ketchup, honey, and Worcestershire sauce or even a teriyaki glaze. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your preference by tweaking the ratios!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Once the pork has cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain moisture, but you can also use the microwave, just be careful not to overdo it to avoid dryness. A splash of water can help retain moisture while reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill?
Yes, you can! Sear the pork tenderloin on the grill first to achieve that nice crust, then brush on BBQ sauce and finish cooking on indirect heat until it reaches the desired temperature. This gives the meat a lovely smoky flavor!
