This Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is juicy, tender, and packed with mouth-watering flavor! It’s quick to make and perfect for any day of the week.
Honestly, who can resist that sweet and tangy BBQ sauce? I always make extra for dipping! It goes great with a side of roasted veggies or cornbread!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and tender, perfect for a quick meal. If you can’t find tenderloin, pork loin or chicken breast can work in a pinch but will have a different texture.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand for the best flavor! If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a low-sugar BBQ sauce. Alternatively, homemade BBQ sauce is a fun project if you have the ingredients on hand.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor during searing. You can swap it for canola oil or avocado oil if you prefer, as they have similar cooking properties.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are essential for flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works, though it won’t have the same smoky flavor. You can also experiment with other spices like cumin or chili powder!
How Do I Get a Perfectly Sear on the Pork Tenderloin?
Sealing in the moisture is key to a juicy tenderloin, and that starts with searing! Here’s how to get that golden-brown crust:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the pork — you should hear a sizzle!
- Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until it’s brown. Don’t rush this step; it builds amazing flavor.
- If the pork sticks to the skillet, it’s not ready to turn; just wait a moment longer.
After searing, brush on the BBQ sauce generously. This not only adds flavor but also creates a nice glaze as it bakes. Enjoy the deliciousness!
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or additional BBQ sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook in the oven. Plus, you’ll want to let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. Overall, you’ll have a delicious BBQ pork tenderloin ready in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the tenderloin.
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix it well. This spice blend is what will give your pork tenderloin that flavorful kick!
3. Season the Pork:
Rub the spice mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure it’s well coated. The spices will enhance the meat’s taste while it cooks.
4. Sear the Tenderloin:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork tenderloin to the skillet. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully browned. This step adds flavor and creates a nice crust.
5. Add BBQ Sauce:
After searing, remove the skillet from heat. Generously brush the pork tenderloin with your favorite BBQ sauce. This step will keep it moist and flavorful during baking!
6. Bake the Pork:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the pork for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy if you have one!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once the pork is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. After resting, slice the tenderloin and serve it drizzled with more BBQ sauce, if you like. Feel free to garnish with fresh parsley for a little color!
Enjoy your delicious, oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, you can use other cuts like pork loin or pork shoulder, but be aware that cooking times may vary. Pork shoulder will require a longer cooking time since it’s tougher than tenderloin. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No worries! You can make a simple alternative by mixing ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and your favorite spices (like cayenne or mustard). Adjust the sugar to your preference for desired sweetness and heat!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spice rub and marinate the pork in the BBQ sauce a day ahead. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This will enhance the flavor as it allows the spices to penetrate the meat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven or microwave. Add a little extra BBQ sauce to keep the meat moist and flavorful while reheating.
