This baked pork tenderloin is juicy, tender, and full of flavor! It’s easy to make and great for dinner, plus you can have it on the table in no time.
The best part? The smell while it’s cooking makes your kitchen feel like a cozy restaurant! I love serving it with veggies or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: The star of the dish! Choose a tenderloin that’s fresh and pink inside. If you can’t find it, you can use pork loin chops, but the cooking time will vary.
Olive Oil: This oil adds richness to the dish. You could substitute with avocado oil or even melted butter for a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, but if you’re in a rush, garlic powder works too. Use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove.
Herbs: Dried herbs are great, but using fresh ones adds a vibrant flavor. If you don’t have rosemary or thyme, Italian seasoning is a handy replacement.
Dijon Mustard: For some extra tang, this is perfect! If you don’t have it, yellow mustard or even honey mustard can work well.
How Do You Ensure the Pork Is Juicy and Tender?
Resting the pork is key to a juicy result! When you take the meat out of the oven, let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to settle back into the meat, preventing dryness.
- Keep the skillet covered while resting to retain heat.
- Always check the internal temperature; 145°F is perfect for pork.
- Slice against the grain to ensure each piece remains tender.
By following these steps, you’ll serve up a delicious pork tenderloin every time!
The Best Baked Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds pork tenderloin
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time, plus an additional 5-10 minutes for resting. Overall, you’ll have a tasty baked pork tenderloin ready in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the pork and getting it nice and golden.
2. Mix the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, paprika, salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Prepare the Pork:
Take the pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better. Next, rub the herb and spice mixture all over the pork, ensuring it’s coated evenly for maximum flavor.
4. Sear the Pork:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, carefully add the pork tenderloin and sear it on all sides until it’s golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds flavor and texture!
5. Bake the Pork:
Once seared, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check—this ensures your pork is cooked perfectly!
6. Rest the Pork:
When done, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period is key! It allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping it juicy and tender.
7. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the pork tenderloin into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and spoon any delicious pan juices over the top for extra flavor.
8. Add the Finishing Touch:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. It’s not just pretty; it tastes great too!
9. Time to Enjoy!
Serve your perfectly baked pork tenderloin warm alongside your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork?
Yes, you can! While pork tenderloin is ideal due to its tenderness, you can also use pork loin, pork chops, or even pork shoulder. Just be aware that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and fat content of the cut you choose.
Can I Marinate the Pork Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight in the refrigerator allows the flavors to deepen, making the pork even more delicious. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying it out.
What Sides Pair Best with Baked Pork Tenderloin?
Classic sides include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. Feel free to get creative with your favorite accompaniments!