This Easy Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is juicy and packed with flavor! With sweet and tangy BBQ sauce coating the tender meat, it’s a meal the whole family will love.
Who doesn’t enjoy a good barbecue without the mess? I love serving this tenderloin with some roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a tasty dinner. Easy peasy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and cooks quickly, making it great for weeknight meals. If you can’t find tenderloin, you can use pork loin, but adjust cooking time as it may take longer.
BBQ Sauce: You can use any brand you love, or even make your own. If you prefer a healthier option, look for a low-sugar version or a homemade recipe with minimal ingredients.
Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder add depth of flavor. For a kick, try smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Fresh garlic and onion can also work in place of powder—just sauté them first!
Olive Oil: This is used for rubbing the pork, but you can swap it with canola oil or melted butter. Butter adds a rich flavor if that’s what you prefer!
How Do I Get a Nice Sear on My Pork Tenderloin?
Searing is key to adding flavor and locking in juices. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork. This helps to create that nice golden-brown crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—if your tenderloin is large, consider cutting it in half for better searing.
- Keep an eye on the time; 2-3 minutes per side should give you a good sear without cooking the meat through.
- Always let the seared pork rest after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices for a moist tenderloin.
Easy Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious oven baked BBQ pork tenderloin takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. Altogether, you’ll have a mouth-watering dinner in around 35-40 minutes, plus a little time for resting the meat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is perfect for roasting the pork tenderloin and getting that beautiful glaze on it!
2. Prepare the Seasoning Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until combined. This seasoning will give the pork a wonderful flavor.
3. Season the Pork Tenderloin:
Take the pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. Then, rub the olive oil over the pork, making sure to cover it completely. Finally, sprinkle the seasoning mix all over and rub it in for even coverage.
4. Sear the Pork:
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear it on all sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side until it’s nicely browned.
5. Add BBQ Sauce:
Once the pork is browned, brush it generously with BBQ sauce all over. This adds great flavor and helps create a tasty glaze.
6. Bake in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet with the pork to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
7. Glaze Again:
About halfway through baking, take the pork out and brush it again with more BBQ sauce. This will enhance the flavor and give it a nice finish.
8. Rest Before Slicing:
When the pork is done, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes—this helps the juices stay inside the meat, making it more tender when you slice it.
9. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and serve with any remaining BBQ sauce for dipping. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin!
FAQ for Easy Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and quick cooking time, you can substitute with pork loin or even pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these cuts may take longer to reach the right internal temperature.
What BBQ Sauce Should I Use?
You can use any BBQ sauce you like—store-bought or homemade! For a healthier option, look for low-sugar or no-sugar-added versions. If you like some heat, try a spicy BBQ sauce or mix in some chili powder with your regular sauce!
How Do I Know When the Pork is Done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Once it hits that mark, let it rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can season and sear the pork a day in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply brush it with BBQ sauce and follow the baking instructions. For best results, bake it the same day you plan to serve.
