This oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin is super easy and packed with flavor! The tender meat gets a nice glaze from the tangy BBQ sauce, making each bite deliciously juicy.
Seriously, I’m always amazed at how quickly this comes together. Just pop it in the oven and wait for the mouthwatering smell to fill your kitchen. Perfect for dinner with family or friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star ingredient! Look for tenderloins that are firm and pink. If you can’t find pork, turkey tenderloin can work well, too, though it may cook a little faster.
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite brand is great, but feel free to experiment. Homemade BBQ sauce offers more flavor control. For a healthier option, use a low-sugar version or even a spicy mustard sauce for a tangy twist.
Olive Oil: This helps to create a nice sear and adds flavor. In place of olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil are good options that also have high smoke points.
Spices: Garlic and onion powders are essential for flavor. You can substitute fresh minced garlic and onions if you prefer. Smoked paprika gives great depth, but regular paprika will do in a pinch if you don’t have it.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is optional but adds a nice tang. If you want an alternative, try using lemon juice or white vinegar instead.
How Do You Get the Pork Tenderloin Perfectly Browned?
Searing the pork tenderloin is key to locking in flavor and moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet! Heat your cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat before adding the oil.
- Pat the pork dry with paper towels. This helps it brown better.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the tenderloins. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want enough space around each piece.
- Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned, which adds a ton of flavor!
If possible, avoid moving the meat around too much during this process, as that can prevent a good sear. Let it sit and develop color!
Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. You’ll need an additional 20-25 minutes of cooking time in the oven. So, in total, you can expect this meal to be ready in about 1 hour, depending on your marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the pork. This ensures a great cook on the tenderloin.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar if you like a bit of tanginess. This flavorful marinade is what will make your pork tender and tasty!
3. Marinate the Pork:
Take the pork tenderloins and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the BBQ marinade over the pork, making sure it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For even better flavor, let it marinate overnight if you can!
4. Sear the Pork:
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade (don’t throw away the marinade!) and sear the tenderloins for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor!
5. Bake the Pork:
After searing, brush the remaining BBQ marinade over the tenderloins for extra flavor. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check the internal temperature of the pork; it should reach 145°F (63°C) to be safely cooked.
6. Rest the Meat:
Once your pork is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps keep all the delicious juices inside the meat, making it more flavorful and tender.
7. Serve:
Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and drizzle any remaining pan sauce over the top. Feel free to serve with more BBQ sauce on the side for those who want a little extra!
Enjoy your delicious Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness, you can also use pork loin or pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time as pork loin may take longer to cook. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
How Do I Store Leftover BBQ Pork Tenderloin?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe with a Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce?
Definitely! Using sugar-free BBQ sauce is a great option for those looking to reduce sugar intake. Just be mindful that some sugar-free sauces can be thinner, so you might want to adjust the amounts or cook a bit longer to thicken the sauce in the oven.
What Should I Serve with Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin?
This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, a fresh salad or steamed green beans also complement the flavors nicely!
