This Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is a tasty treat that’s easy to make! Juicy pork is coated with a flavorful BBQ sauce and baked to perfection—what’s not to love?
I enjoy how the tenderloin stays moist in the oven. Plus, it fills the kitchen with a mouth-watering smell that even makes the neighbors curious! Who wants to share? 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and cooks quickly. If you can’t find tenderloin, you can substitute with pork loin or even chicken breast for a lighter version. However, chicken will have a different flavor and texture, so keep that in mind!
Barbecue Sauce: Using store-bought barbecue sauce is convenient! If you prefer homemade, mix ketchup, honey, vinegar, and spices for a quick version. Sweet or tangy sauces work well; I usually lean towards those with a hint of smokiness for extra flavor.
Olive Oil: For searing, olive oil is great, but feel free to use vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have. I sometimes mix in a little butter for that extra richness, especially while searing the pork.
Spices: Smoked Paprika: This adds depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can do, but you might miss that smoky flavor. A touch of liquid smoke in your barbecue sauce can also mimic that taste!
How Do I Perfectly Sear the Pork Tenderloin?
Searing the pork is a crucial step as it locks in the juices and adds flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. Test by adding a drop of water; if it sizzles, it’s ready!
- Dry the pork well with paper towels; moisture will hinder browning.
- Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until a rich brown crust forms. Don’t move the pork around too much; let it sit for the best browning.
After searing, quickly brush on that barbecue sauce before popping it into the oven. This step adds more layers of flavor as the pork bakes!
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a total of about 35 minutes to get this delicious BBQ pork tenderloin ready to serve. Plus, you’ll let it rest for a few minutes after baking for juicier slices!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your pork will cook evenly and get that perfect finish.
2. Prepare the Pork:
Next, take your pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. Place it in a large mixing bowl or on a cutting board. This step helps the seasonings stick better.
3. Season the Pork:
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper together. Then, rub this spice mixture all over the pork tenderloin, coating it evenly for great flavor!
4. Sear the Pork:
In an oven-safe skillet (a cast-iron skillet is perfect), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork tenderloin once the oil is hot. Sear it on all sides for about 2-3 minutes until it’s nice and browned. This adds extra flavor and helps seal in the juices.
5. Add the BBQ Sauce:
After searing, brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the pork tenderloin. This will create a tasty glaze as it cooks.
6. Bake in the Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet with the pork to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness!
7. Let it Rest:
Once done, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step is super important as it helps keep the meat juicy when you slice it.
8. Slice and Serve:
Finally, slice the pork tenderloin into medallions. Drizzle with any extra barbecue sauce if you like, and sprinkle with fresh herbs for a pretty garnish. Your delicious oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin is ready to enjoy!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pork loin or pork chops if you don’t have a tenderloin. Just be aware that cooking times will differ—use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C). For thicker cuts, you may need to extend the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
What if I Don’t Have Olive Oil?
If you’re out of olive oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted butter work well as substitutes. Each will provide a slightly different flavor, but they’ll all help create a nice sear on the pork.
Can I Make This Recipe with Homemade BBQ Sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade BBQ sauce adds a personal touch to the dish. Just ensure it’s seasoned to your taste and has a good balance of sweetness and acidity to complement the pork. Adjust the amount based on your preference for sauciness!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Tenderloin?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For best results, slice only the portion you plan to eat and keep the rest whole, as this helps retain moisture. You can reheat slices in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a touch of water to prevent drying out.
