This Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is juicy and full of flavor! Coated with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, it’s super easy to make and will fill your kitchen with a delicious smell.
I love how this dish is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough to impress guests. Pair it with some veggies, and you have a meal that feels special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and flavorful. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, chicken breast or pork loin could work, but keep in mind they might need different cooking times.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce. You can also try using low-sugar varieties if you’re looking for a healthier option. Sweet and tangy sauces are great, but don’t be afraid to experiment with spicy ones too!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor, but you can use any cooking oil like avocado or canola oil. Choose one with a light flavor to keep the pork’s taste distinct.
Spices: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika create a lovely flavor profile. You can substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika if you prefer a milder taste. For a kick, try adding cayenne pepper!
Fresh Parsley: It’s optional but adds a lovely touch of color. If you’re out, any fresh herb like cilantro or chives can work just as well.
How Do You Get a Perfect Crust on the Pork Tenderloin?
Creating a nice crust is crucial for flavor. Here’s how to achieve that perfect sear:
- First, make sure your skillet is hot—medium-high heat is ideal. A hot pan helps form the crust.
- Before searing, pat the pork dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture and allows the meat to brown nicely.
- Use enough olive oil to coat the pan, but don’t overdo it. Just a thin layer will do.
- Sear the pork for 3-4 minutes on each side without moving it around too much. This helps achieve an even, golden-brown crust.
Taking your time during this step really pays off! Trust me, the flavor is well worth it.
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
For The Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of cooking time. You’ll enjoy a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish for this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that it’s nice and hot when we put the pork in.
2. Prepare The Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix them together well—this will add lots of flavor to your pork!
3. Season The Pork Tenderloin:
Next, pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice sear! Rub the olive oil all over the meat, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on top. Make sure you cover it well for extra flavor.
4. Sear The Pork:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the pork tenderloin and sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want it to develop a nice brown crust—this adds great taste!
5. Add The BBQ Sauce:
After searing, brush the BBQ sauce generously all over the surface of the pork tenderloin. Get it nice and coated—this will keep the meat moist and tasty.
6. Bake The Pork:
Now it’s time to bake! Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and let it cook for 20-25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 145°F (63°C) when it’s done.
7. Let It Rest:
Once the pork is cooked, carefully take the skillet out of the oven. Let the pork rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps to keep the juices inside!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork tenderloin and serve it warm with some extra BBQ sauce on the side. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch. Enjoy your delicious oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like pork loin or boneless pork chops, but cooking times may vary. Ensure you adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat to reach the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No problem! You can use other sauces like teriyaki, honey mustard, or a homemade sauce made from ketchup, vinegar, and spices. Just make sure to adjust the flavor profile to suit your taste!
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers, place the sliced pork in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or additional BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can season the pork and apply the BBQ sauce a few hours before cooking. Just keep it wrapped in the refrigerator. You can also cook it and then reheat it later; just ensure the pork is heated thoroughly before serving.
