This juicy oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin is a true dinner delight! It’s marinated in a tasty barbecue sauce that makes every bite finger-licking good.
I can’t help but smile when I make this! The sweet smell of BBQ fills the house, and it pairs perfectly with some grilled veggies. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the dish! It’s lean and tender. If you’re looking for a substitute, chicken tenderloins work well too. Just adjust the cooking time since chicken cooks quicker.
BBQ Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite BBQ sauce. I’ve tried both sweet and spicy sauces and love the flavor variations they bring. If you’re vegan, look for plant-based BBQ sauce options.
Olive Oil: This helps to create a nice coating for the spices. If you need a substitute, avocado oil is a great alternative since it has a high smoke point. Canola oil works too, but I prefer the flavor of olive oil.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a rich flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can be used instead. Feel free to omit cayenne if you want to keep the heat level down.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Sear on My Pork Tenderloin?
Searing your pork tenderloin locks in the juices and adds a lovely crust. It’s essential for great flavor! Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork; this helps create that nice brown crust.
- Use enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet but not so much that it pools.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you have a larger piece of meat, do it in batches if needed.
- Let the pork caramelize on each side without moving it too much—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
With these tips, your pork will have that delightful texture and flavor you’re looking for! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes in the oven. In total, you’ll need about 35-40 minutes from start to delicious BBQ pork tenderloin served on your table. Simple and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This hot temperature is perfect for roasting the tenderloin and getting that nice caramelization!
2. Make the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat!). Stir the mixture until everything is well blended into a flavorful spice rub.
3. Coat the Tenderloin:
Take your pork tenderloin and rub the spice mix all over it. Make sure to cover every part of the meat so it gets really flavorful!
4. Sear the Pork:
Next, grab an oven-safe skillet (like a cast iron skillet). Heat it over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the pork tenderloin in the skillet. Sear it on all sides until it is beautifully browned, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Add BBQ Sauce:
Pour half of the BBQ sauce over the pork tenderloin, ensuring it’s coated evenly. This will add that sweet and tangy flavor as it cooks!
6. Bake in the Oven:
Now it’s time to transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the pork for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures your meat is safe to eat and still juicy!
7. Let it Rest:
Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven (it will be hot!). Let the tenderloin rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside the meat.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After resting, slice the pork tenderloin into pieces, brush the remaining BBQ sauce over the slices, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve it up and enjoy your delicious, juicy BBQ pork tenderloin!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, you can substitute pork loin or pork shoulder if you prefer! Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary. Ensure that the internal temperature still reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No problem! You can use other oils like vegetable oil or canola oil as a substitute. If you want to add a bit more flavor, consider using avocado oil or melted butter instead!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the pork and warm it gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of BBQ sauce if desired to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! Besides the cayenne pepper, you can add some hot sauce to the spice rub or serve it with a spicy BBQ sauce. Adjust to your heat preference for an extra kick!
