This oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin is a tasty and juicy dish that’s easy to make. Glazed with a rich barbecue sauce, it brings a delightful flavor to your dinner table!
The best part? It practically cooks itself while you relax! I love serving it with some grilled veggies or a fresh salad. It’s a hit every time! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloins: This cut is lean and tender, making it perfect for quick cooking. If you can’t find tenderloin, try using pork loin or even chicken breasts for a different flavor profile.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade recipe. For a lighter option, swap it with a low-sugar barbecue sauce or a sauce made with fruit juice. If you enjoy some heat, try adding a dash of hot sauce to your barbecue sauce!
Spices: The garlic and onion powders add a nice depth of flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works too; just know it won’t have that smoky flavor. Some folks like to add a touch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Olive Oil: While olive oil is my go-to, you can also use vegetable oil or even melted butter for a richer taste.
Fresh Parsley: It adds color and a fresh taste at the end. If you don’t have parsley, try cilantro or chives for a different twist.
How Do You Get That Perfect Sear on Your Pork Tenderloin?
Searing your pork is crucial for flavor and texture. It locks in juices and creates a beautiful crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the pork. Preheat over medium-high heat for a few minutes.
- Pat your tenderloins dry; moisture will prevent browning.
- Use a bit of oil to help with the sear. Don’t crowd the pan; if needed, sear in batches.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Resist the urge to flip too soon for a better crust.
Let the pork rest after baking to keep it juicy. Enjoy your meal with that perfect blend of flavors!
Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
For the Spice Mix:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 25 minutes for cooking, plus an additional 5-10 minutes for resting. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before you can enjoy your tasty BBQ pork tenderloin!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the pork.
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mix will give your pork a yummy taste!
3. Season the Pork Tenderloins:
Take the pork tenderloins and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important to help the spices stick better. Next, rub the olive oil all over the tenderloins.
4. Coat with Spices:
Sprinkle your prepared spice mixture evenly over the pork tenderloins, making sure to coat them well. This will add a ton of flavor!
5. Sear the Pork:
Heat a large skillet that can go in the oven over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the pork tenderloins in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This step helps lock in juices!
6. Brush on the BBQ Sauce:
Now it’s time to add some barbecue goodness. Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the tops of the seared tenderloins, making them look delectable!
7. Bake the Pork:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want to cook until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures it’s cooked perfectly and remains juicy!
8. Let It Rest:
Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the pork rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it even more delicious when you slice it.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork tenderloin and drizzle with more barbecue sauce if you like. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy every bite of your tasty oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pork tenderloin, you can use pork loin or even chicken breasts as a substitute. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for pork or 165°F (74°C) for chicken to ensure safety.
What BBQ Sauce Should I Use?
Choose any BBQ sauce you love! From sweet to spicy, it all depends on your taste preference. You can even make your own by mixing ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices if you want to customize the flavor.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the pork tenderloins with the spice mix and barbecue sauce in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This will enhance the flavors. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before searing and baking.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or briefly in a skillet over low heat. Consider adding a splash of BBQ sauce to keep it moist!
