This Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor! The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce brings everything together, making each bite a treat.
It’s super easy to make—just marinate, pop it in the oven, and let it do its magic. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an easy weeknight meal! You’ll love the delicious sauce, trust me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the dish! Lean, juicy, and tender, it’s perfect for quick baking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breast works well. However, keep in mind that the cook time will differ.
Barbecue Sauce: You can use any BBQ sauce you like! I often go for a smoky flavor, but sweet or spicy sauces are great too. If you want to make it fresh, try mixing ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices for a quick homemade version.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add depth to the pork. If you don’t have smoked paprika, try regular paprika or even chili powder for some heat. Fresh garlic and onions can also be used if you prefer fresh ingredients.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to, but any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil is a fine substitute. This step helps the spices stick to the pork and keeps it moist as it cooks.
How Do You Get a Perfectly Sear on Pork Tenderloin?
Searing the pork tenderloin is crucial for flavor. It locks in moisture and gives your dish a beautiful crust. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with a hot skillet; cast iron holds heat well. Preheat it on medium-high for a couple of minutes.
- Pat the pork dry to avoid excess moisture – this ensures a good sear. Rub it with olive oil before seasoning.
- Place the pork in the skillet and don’t move it around! Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until browned, then flip and do the same on the other side.
Pro tip: If you hear a sizzling sound, you’re on the right track! This means the meat is getting that delicious golden crust.
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 to 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes before you can enjoy a delicious meal. It’s a straightforward process that yields fantastic results!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get your oven ready by preheating it to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your pork cooks perfectly once it goes in.
2. Make the Seasoning Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. This blend will add a delicious flavor to your pork tenderloin.
3. Prepare the Pork:
Next, take your pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice sear. Rub the olive oil all over the tenderloin, making sure it’s coated well, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on all sides.
4. Sear the Pork:
Heat an oven-safe skillet, like cast iron, over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, carefully place the pork tenderloin in the skillet. Sear it for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned. This locks in wonderful flavors!
5. Brush with Barbecue Sauce:
After searing, remove the skillet from heat. Brush half of the barbecue sauce over the tenderloin evenly, making sure to cover well.
6. Bake the Pork:
Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the pork for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures it’s juicy and cooked thoroughly.
7. Let it Rest and Add More Sauce:
When it’s done, carefully take the skillet out of the oven and let the pork rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps to keep the meat tender. Before serving, brush the remaining barbecue sauce over the tenderloin for an extra burst of flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Lastly, slice the pork tenderloin into medallions. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and if you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious, homemade BBQ pork tenderloin!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute pork loin or even pork shoulder if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; ensure any cut reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
What If I Don’t Have an Oven-Safe Skillet?
No worries! If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the seared pork to a baking dish after searing. Just make sure to cover the dish with foil to retain moisture while it bakes in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. To keep it moist, add a splash of barbecue sauce while reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! To spice things up, you can add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture to your desired heat level. Mixing in a bit of your favorite hot sauce with the barbecue sauce can also enhance the flavor!
