This Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is juicy and packed with flavor! With a sticky BBQ glaze, it’s the perfect dish for any family dinner or weekend cookout.
I can’t resist the mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes. Serve it with corn on the cob, and you’ve got a hit meal everyone will love! 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the show! It’s tender and cooks quickly. If you can’t find tenderloin, try pork loin or even chicken breast as alternatives, though cooking times may vary.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to keep the flavors aligned with your taste. If you want a healthier choice, opt for a low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce. You can also use teriyaki sauce for a different twist.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These add great flavor without the fuss. You can substitute fresh garlic and onion, but you may need to adjust the amount—a clove of garlic and a small onion should do!
Smoked Paprika: This gives a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, though it won’t have that smoky depth. You can even try cumin for a unique flavor.
How Do I Properly Sear the Pork Tenderloins?
Searing is key to locking in flavors and achieving a great texture. Here’s how to sear your pork right:
- Heat your skillet well before adding the pork. It should sizzle upon contact.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the tenderloins space to brown evenly.
- Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Avoid moving the meat too much during this time.
- After browning, brush on the BBQ sauce to get a caramelized top while baking in the oven.
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 to 1.5 pounds total)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 20-25 minutes to bake. With resting time included, you’re looking at around 40 minutes total before you can dig in. Simple and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your pork will cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will add flavor to the pork, so stir it until everything is well combined.
3. Coat the Pork:
Take your pork tenderloins and rub the marinade all over them. Make sure they are evenly coated, as this will infuse them with flavor during cooking.
4. Sear the Pork:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet (a cast iron skillet works great for this!) over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork tenderloins. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. This step helps to lock in juices and flavor.
5. Add BBQ Sauce:
After searing, brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over the pork tenderloins. Make sure to save some sauce for serving later!
6. Bake in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want the internal temperature of the pork to reach 145°F (63°C). This ensures it’s cooked perfectly!
7. Let It Rest:
Once the pork is done baking, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the pork rest for about 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices distribute for a more tender bite.
8. Slice and Serve:
Now it’s time to slice the tenderloins! Drizzle with any remaining BBQ sauce if you like, and garnish with fresh parsley for a nice touch. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Enjoy your delicious oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin!
Can I Use Another Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is the best choice for its tenderness and quick cooking time, you can also use pork loin or pork chops. Just be aware that they may require different cooking times; always check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
What if I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce on Hand?
No worries! You can easily make a homemade BBQ sauce using a mix of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and some spices. Combine these ingredients to taste until you achieve your desired flavor. Alternatively, a teriyaki or soy sauce-based marinade can also work well for an Asian twist!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Tenderloin?
To store leftovers, place the sliced pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the pork in portioned meal bags. Just ensure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn, and it will last for about 3 months!
Can I Cook This on the Grill Instead?
Yes, grilling is a fantastic option! Just make sure to marinade the pork tenderloins as directed. Preheat your grill to medium-high, cook them for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they reach the same internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Brush with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes to get that great caramelization!
