This oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin is juicy and bursting with flavor! With a tangy BBQ sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun weekend meal.
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up. Just season the tenderloin, slather on that sauce, bake, and you’re all set! I can’t resist adding extra BBQ sauce on my plate. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This lean cut of meat cooks quickly and stays juicy. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, you can substitute chicken breasts or beef tenderloin, but cooking times may vary a bit.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, homemade sauce can be a great alternative. Mix ketchup, honey, vinegar, and spices to taste.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds moisture and helps the spices stick. If you’re on a budget, feel free to use vegetable oil or canola oil as a substitute. They’ll work just fine!
Spices: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika give a fantastic flavor. Don’t hesitate to switch out smoked paprika for sweet paprika or try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat!
Fresh Parsley: Adding herbs for garnish not only looks nice but also adds freshness. If you don’t have parsley, try cilantro or even chopped green onions for a different touch.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Searing on My Pork Tenderloin?
Searing creates a delicious crust and locks in juices. Start by making sure your pan is very hot before adding the pork. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot.
- Add a bit of oil and wait until it shimmers.
- Carefully place the pork in the skillet, avoiding overcrowding.
- Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
For extra flavor, let the meat sit for a moment before flipping. This locks in more juices and gives you that nice crust!
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 1-2 pork tenderloins (about 1-1.5 pounds total)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your preferred brand)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Spice Mixture:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing:
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook, plus a little resting time. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes to enjoy a mouthwatering meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot for cooking the pork tenderloin evenly and beautifully.
2. Make the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend will give your pork a tasty kick!
3. Prepare the Pork:
Rub the olive oil all over the pork tenderloins, making sure to cover them well. Then, sprinkle your spice mixture evenly over the meat, coating all sides thoroughly. The more flavor, the better!
4. Sear the Pork:
Heat a cast iron skillet or any oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the pork tenderloins in the pan and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are browned. This step helps to lock in the flavors!
5. Add the BBQ Sauce:
After searing, carefully remove the pan from the heat. Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce all over the pork tenderloins, ensuring they are well-coated with that delicious BBQ goodness.
6. Bake the Pork:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). This is when it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
7. Rest and Slice:
Once done, take the pork out of the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, slice the pork tenderloin into medallions for easy serving.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your tender slices of pork with any remaining barbecue sauce on the side. If you like, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley to add a vibrant touch.
9. Enjoy!
Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your delicious Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like pork loin or pork chops, but cooking times may vary. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safety. Adjust cooking times as necessary based on the thickness of the meat.
What If I Don’t Have Barbecue Sauce?
No worries! You can use a variety of sauces as a substitute, such as teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or even a homemade mixture of ketchup, vinegar, and spices. Just adjust the seasonings to fit your choice of sauce for the best flavor!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or on the stovetop to keep it juicy. Avoid the microwave to prevent drying it out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the pork in the spice mixture and barbecue sauce a few hours (or overnight) before searing. This enhances the flavor. Just sear and bake when you’re ready to serve!
