This juicy baked pork tenderloin is super easy to make and full of flavor. With simple spices and a quick cooking time, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Cooking pork tenderloin is a win in my book. I love serving it with some veggies or mashed potatoes. It always impresses family and friends—who knew gourmet could be this simple? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the show! If you can’t find tenderloin, you can substitute with pork loin, but cooking times will vary. Make sure to keep an eye on it!
Olive Oil: It adds great flavor and helps with seasoning absorption. For a different twist, avocado oil or melted butter works just as well.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute if you’re in a pinch. Use 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can work; just remember that it will change the flavor a bit.
Herbs: Thyme or rosemary is traditional, but Italian seasoning or even fresh herbs can be a fun switch. Fresh herbs have a vibrant taste!
How Do I Keep Pork Tenderloin Juicy?
Keeping the pork tenderloin juicy is crucial! The best way is to cook it to the right temperature. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to pat the pork dry to get a nice sear on the outside.
- Use a flavor-packed rub to lock in moisture during cooking.
- Cook to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for the perfect doneness. A meat thermometer is your best friend!
- Let the meat rest before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful.
Juicy Baked Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped
Time Needed:
This juicy baked pork tenderloin will take you about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes of cooking time, plus a resting period of 5-10 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at about 35-45 minutes to a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough to give your pork a lovely sear on the outside.
2. Prepare the Pork:
Take your pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps ensure the seasoning sticks and promotes better browning.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme (or rosemary), and onion powder. If you like, add Dijon mustard for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Season the Tenderloin:
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork tenderloin so it’s evenly coated. This is where all that flavor gets absorbed!
5. Bake the Pork:
Place the seasoned tenderloin on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer, and when the thickest part reaches 145°F (63°C), it’s done!
6. Rest Your Pork:
Once out of the oven, let the tenderloin rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicy final dish.
7. Slice & Serve:
After resting, slice the pork tenderloin into medallions. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you’d like. Serve it warm with your favorite sides, and enjoy every bite!
Enjoy your juicy baked pork tenderloin!
FAQ for Juicy Baked Pork Tenderloin
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes! While pork tenderloin is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness and quick cooking time, you can also use pork loin. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as pork loin may take longer to reach the desired internal temperature.
What Temperature Should I Cook Pork Tenderloin To?
The ideal internal temperature for pork tenderloin is 145°F (63°C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness, and remember to let it rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to keep it juicy!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the seasoning and rub it on the pork tenderloin up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This will enhance the flavors even more!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out. You can also slice it cold for sandwiches or salads!
