This Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is a simple and tasty meal that packs a punch of flavor! The juicy pork is coated in a rich BBQ sauce that’s easy to whip up.
You won’t believe how good your kitchen will smell while it cooks! I love serving it with some crispy veggies on the side—perfect for a cozy dinner at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of your dish! Aim for a tenderloin that’s 1 to 1.5 lbs. If you can’t find tenderloin, you could use pork loin, though it may require slightly longer cooking time. Choose a lean cut for best results.
BBQ Sauce: Store-bought BBQ sauce is a quick option, but homemade can add a personal touch. You can substitute it with marinades or even a spicy mustard for a different flavor. I love chipotle sauce for some heat!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for its flavor, but you can swap it with vegetable or canola oil if needed. If you want extra flavor, try using flavored oils like garlic or rosemary oil.
Spices: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are key to building flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works, but you could also add a pinch of cayenne for heat!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Tenderloin is Juicy and Full of Flavor?
The key to making sure your pork tenderloin stays juicy is to properly apply the dry rub and let it sit before cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Pat the pork dry with paper towels to ensure good adhesion of the rub.
- Massage the olive oil all over, which helps keep the meat moist, then apply the rub generously. Don’t be shy—this is your seasoning!
- Let it rest for about 15 minutes after you rub it, allowing those flavors to soak in.
During cooking, a cast iron skillet helps retain heat, ensuring even cooking. Remember to use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Aim for that perfect 145°F, and let it rest before slicing for juicy results!
Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 to 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 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
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 25 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll need around 35 minutes to prepare and enjoy your tasty oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your tenderloin bakes evenly and comes out juicy.
2. Prepare the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This combination will give your pork a tasty flavor boost!
3. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin:
Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps the rub stick better. Then, drizzle the olive oil over the tenderloin, rubbing it in all over.
4. Apply the Spice Mixture:
Sprinkle the dry rub evenly over the pork tenderloin, pressing it in gently to make sure it sticks. This will really enhance the flavor when it cooks!
5. Bake the Pork:
Place the tenderloin in a cast iron skillet or a baking dish. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Add the BBQ Sauce:
During the last 10 minutes of cooking, take the tenderloin out (be careful – it’s hot!) and brush it generously with BBQ sauce. Put it back in the oven to finish cooking and caramelize the sauce.
7. Rest and Slice:
Once it’s done cooking, remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat. After resting, slice the tenderloin into medallions.
8. Serve:
Drizzle any remaining BBQ sauce over the sliced tenderloin, and if you like, garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! If you don’t have pork tenderloin, you can use pork loin or pork chops, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may take longer to cook through. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No problem! You can substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika plus a pinch of chili powder or cumin for a little smoky flavor. Alternatively, just use regular paprika for a milder taste. The dish will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, basting with a bit more BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can season the pork tenderloin with the dry rub and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours in advance. Just remember to let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
