This Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is juicy and packed with flavor! Coated in a tasty BBQ sauce, it’s perfect for a quick family dinner or a weekend feast.
Cooking this tenderloin is a breeze—just rub it, bake it, and enjoy. I like to serve it with roasted veggies for a complete meal. You can’t go wrong with this one! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This lean cut is perfect for quick cooking and takes on flavors beautifully. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, chicken breast can be a good substitute, but adjust cooking times since chicken may require a longer bake.
BBQ Sauce: Choose a sauce that treats your taste buds! I love using a sweet & smoky BBQ sauce, but if you prefer something tangy or spicy, go for it! You can also make your own with ketchup, vinegar, honey, and spices if you want a fresh touch.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder add depth, while smoked paprika offers a nice hint of smokiness. You can replace smoked paprika with regular paprika if you don’t have it, though the flavor will be different. For a kick, try adding cayenne pepper!
Olive Oil: It’s great for searing, but any cooking oil like avocado or canola can work too. If you’re looking for a non-oil option, you can also use broth to coat for a lower-fat alternative.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sear on Pork Tenderloin?
Searing the pork is crucial for achieving that flavorful crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork. This step helps create that beautiful brown color.
- Use enough oil so the meat doesn’t stick – about 1 tablespoon should do.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you have more than one tenderloin, sear them in batches.
- Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown. This locks in the juices really well.
These tips will help you achieve that impressive sear and keep your pork tender and juicy! Just remember to let it rest after cooking – this helps keep the juices inside when you slice it.
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pork tenderloin will take about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes to cook in the oven. You’ll need a total of about 40 minutes to enjoy this flavorful meal, including resting time before slicing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important to ensure your pork cooks evenly and gets that nice, tasty crust.
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix them well so you have a lovely spice blend to season your meat.
3. Season the Pork Tenderloin:
Take the pork tenderloin and rub it all over with olive oil. This helps the spices stick. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the tenderloin, coating it nicely.
4. Sear the Pork:
Next, heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the seasoned pork tenderloin in the skillet. Sear it for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s browned and has a nice crust. This step adds flavor!
5. Add BBQ Sauce:
After searing, take the pork out of the skillet and brush it generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. Don’t be shy; this makes it extra tasty!
6. Bake in the Oven:
Now, transfer the skillet (with the pork inside) to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures it’s cooked and safe to eat.
7. Let it Rest:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes. This step helps keep the juices in, making it more tender when you slice it.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork tenderloin into pieces and drizzle with any remaining BBQ sauce, if you like. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pork tenderloin, you can use pork loin or pork chops. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the meat, so always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What if I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce on Hand?
No problem! You can make a quick homemade BBQ sauce using ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices like garlic powder and chili powder. Mix 1 cup of ketchup with 2 tablespoons of vinegar, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and spice as desired until well combined.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the pork and warm gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave to avoid drying out.
Can I Make This with a Slow Cooker?
Yes! For a slow cooker version, season and sear the pork tenderloin as instructed, then place it in the slow cooker and cover it with BBQ sauce. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until tender. This method yields super juicy pork!
