This Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin is juicy and full of flavor with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. It’s a simple dish that brings big smiles to the dinner table!
Honestly, the smell while it cooks is almost as good as the taste! I love serving it with some roasted veggies—makes for a cozy and tasty meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and cooks quickly, making it perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, you can use pork loin, but be mindful that it may take longer to cook.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce for this dish! I like a smoky flavor, but you can also go for sweet or spicy varieties. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a homemade BBQ sauce or a low-sugar version.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spice rub stick. You can substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point, or use vegetable oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder add a wonderful depth of flavor. If you prefer fresh, use minced garlic and chopped onions. Smoky paprika can be swapped with sweet paprika or even chili powder for a kick!
How Do I Get a Great Sear on My Pork Tenderloin?
Searing the pork is key to locking in flavor and moisture. Start by heating your cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Here’s how to do it right:
- Pat the pork dry with paper towels to encourage browning.
- Add a small drizzle of olive oil to the skillet, and don’t be shy—enough oil helps create a nice crust.
- Place the tenderloin in the skillet and avoid moving it around for the first few minutes.
- Turn the pork every 2-3 minutes until all sides are golden brown. This should take about 6-9 minutes in total.
This searing step helps develop a beautiful crust. Plus, it enhances the overall flavor of your BBQ pork! Enjoy your cooking process!
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1-1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Pork Tenderloin takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 25-30 minutes to cook in the oven. In total, you can enjoy this tasty dish in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for the pork when you’re finished prepping.
2. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will be your spice rub for the pork. It adds tons of flavor!
3. Season the Pork:
Take the pork tenderloin and rub olive oil all over it. Next, generously sprinkle the spice rub over the meat, making sure to coat it evenly for maximum flavor.
4. Sear the Pork:
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, add the pork tenderloin and sear it for about 2-3 minutes on each side until nicely browned. This step locks in the juices!
5. Add BBQ Sauce and Bake:
Brush half of the BBQ sauce over the seared pork tenderloin, then carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Glaze During Baking:
In the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the remaining BBQ sauce over the pork. This will give it a wonderful sticky glaze that’s super tasty!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy! Slice the tenderloin and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if you like. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the pork tenderloin with chicken breasts or even a beef tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly: chicken should cook until it reaches 165°F (74°C), and beef will need to be cooked to your desired doneness. Searing times may vary, so keep an eye on it!
What if I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade BBQ sauce by mixing ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Alternatively, teriyaki sauce or a marinade can also work for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or use the microwave, making sure to cover it to keep moisture in.
Can I Marinate the Pork Ahead of Time?
Yes! Marinating the pork tenderloin in the spice rub and a little BBQ sauce for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavor. Just remember to let it sit out for about 20 minutes before cooking, allowing it to come to room temperature for even cooking!
