This oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin is juicy and full of flavor! Coated in a tasty barbecue sauce and cooked to perfection, it’s a great main dish for any meal.
Who doesn’t love a dish that makes your kitchen smell amazing? I often serve it with some rice or veggies, and it’s gone before you know it—better make extra! 😋
What I love about this recipe is how easy it is—just pop it in the oven and relax. Perfect for a busy day when you still want something delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This is the star of the dish! Look for a tenderloin that is firm and has a nice color. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breast or turkey tenderloin works well, though the cooking time may vary.
Barbecue Sauce: You can choose your favorite brand or make your own for more control over flavors. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, consider sugar-free BBQ sauce or a tangy mustard-based sauce as a substitute.
Olive Oil: While olive oil adds flavor, you can swap it with canola oil or avocado oil. These options are great for high heat cooking and have a neutral taste.
Spices: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are essential for flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder can work too, though they will give a different taste.
Dried Thyme: This is optional but adds a nice herbal note. You can also use Italian seasoning or fresh thyme if you have it. Fresh herbs pack more flavor!
How Do You Achieve a Perfectly Seared Pork Tenderloin?
Searing is crucial for locking in flavors and moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the pork by letting it heat on medium-high for a few minutes.
- Pat the pork dry; moisture can prevent it from browning properly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this keeps the heat even and allows for proper searing.
- Sear for 2-3 minutes per side or until a nice brown crust forms. This adds depth of flavor!
Once seared, follow up with the barbecue sauce and transfer directly to the oven for a deliciously baked, juicy tenderloin.
Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your preferred brand or homemade)
Seasoning Mix:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, plus a little extra time to let the pork rest. In total, you’ll be looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for the pork when you’re done preparing it.
2. Prepare the Seasoning Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme (if you’re using it). Mix them together well so the spices are evenly blended.
3. Season the Pork Tenderloin:
Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps it brown nicely. Then, rub the olive oil all over the pork. Follow this by generously sprinkling the spice mixture on the pork, ensuring it’s coated evenly.
4. Sear the Pork:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the pork tenderloin in the skillet. Sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side until it gets a nice, golden-brown color. This adds flavor!
5. Add BBQ Sauce:
After searing, remove the skillet from the heat. Brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce over the tenderloin, making sure it’s well-covered.
6. Bake:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures the pork is cooked through but still juicy!
7. Let it Rest:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven and let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it even tastier.
8. Serve:
After resting, slice the pork tenderloin and drizzle with any remaining barbecue sauce if you’d like. Garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious BBQ pork tenderloin!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is recommended for its tenderness, you can also use pork loin or pork chops. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time; thicker cuts may require longer cooking, while thinner cuts will need less time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C).
What if I Don’t Have Any Olive Oil?
No problem! You can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted butter. All these options will work well to help the spices adhere to the pork and enhance the flavor during searing.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the pork and warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave; adding a splash of water or more barbecue sauce will help keep it moist.
Can I Make It Spicier?
Sure thing! To add some heat, mix in cayenne pepper or chili powder into the spice blend. You can also opt for a spicy barbecue sauce to give the dish an extra kick. Start with a small amount and adjust to your heat preference!
