This oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin is juicy and packed with flavor! The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce gives it a delicious glaze that everyone will love.
Cooking it in the oven is super easy, perfect for busy days. I like to serve it with some fresh veggies or on a bun for a tasty sandwich—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This lean cut cooks quickly and has a mild flavor. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, you can substitute with chicken breast or turkey breast, but cooking times may vary.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce for the best taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a low-sugar barbecue sauce or make a quick sauce with ketchup and vinegar.
Olive Oil: I prefer olive oil for its flavor, but you can use vegetable oil or canola oil if you’re looking for a more neutral option.
Spices: The seasoning blend here is key. If you want to play around with flavors, toss in some chili powder for heat or swap smoked paprika for regular paprika for a different twist.
How Do You Achieve a Perfectly Searing Technique?
Searing the pork tenderloin is crucial for sealing in the juices and adding flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the pork. This will give it a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; if needed, sear in batches. Each piece should touch the pan.
- Limit the flipping—let it sit for 2-3 minutes per side to form a good brown crust.
After searing, a brief rest before slicing helps the juices redistribute, keeping your meat tender and moist. Enjoy cooking!
Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 to 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice of brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spice Mixture:
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to cook in the oven. So, you can expect to have your juicy and flavorful BBQ pork tenderloin ready in about 45 minutes. Simple and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will get it nice and hot for the tenderloin.
2. Make the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mix will give the pork a delicious flavor!
3. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin:
Take your pork tenderloin and drizzle it with olive oil. Then, rub the spice mixture all over the meat, making sure to cover all sides well. This will help the flavors stick and create a tasty crust when cooked.
4. Sear the Tenderloin:
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear it for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until it’s nice and brown. This step adds extra flavor!
5. Add barbecue Sauce:
Pour half of the barbecue sauce over the seared tenderloin to coat it. This will create a tasty glaze as it bakes.
6. Bake the Tenderloin:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), making sure it’s cooked through and juicy.
7. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside for a tastier slice.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the tenderloin and drizzle the remaining barbecue sauce on top. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on as a garnish for a pop of color and added flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use pork loin or pork shoulder, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Pork loin may cook faster, while pork shoulder may need a longer baking time to become tender. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
No worries! You can substitute olive oil with other cooking oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil. Just make sure to use an oil with a high smoke point for searing.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat it in the oven to maintain moisture, or use the microwave if you’re short on time. Just make sure to add a splash of water before microwaving to keep it from drying out!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! To add some heat, you can incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the spice mixture. Alternatively, opt for a spicy barbecue sauce to amp up the flavor!
