This oven baked BBQ pork tenderloin is juicy and packed with flavor! The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce caramelizes on the outside, making every bite a treat.
You’ll love how easy it is to make! Just brush on the sauce, pop it in the oven, and let it do its thing. Perfect for dinner or a fun weekend meal—your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is tender and cooks quickly, making it perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, pork loin works too. Just keep in mind it might require a bit longer to cook through.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to add personal flavor. If you want a healthier option, try a low-sugar barbeque sauce, or even homemade if you’re feeling adventurous! A mix of ketchup and some vinegar can work in a pinch.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps with searing. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or vegetable oil works too. I personally love using ghee for its unique flavor and high smoke point.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are key for flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika with a little cayenne for heat can work. Fresh garlic or fresh onions can be used instead but will require adjusting the cooking times.
How Do You Get Perfectly Browned Pork Tenderloin?
Searing the pork tenderloin is an important step for flavor. To achieve that nice brown crust, pay attention to your pan and the heat.
- Use a heavy oven-safe skillet for even heat distribution.
- Heat the skillet to medium-high before adding oil—this helps the meat brown faster.
- Don’t crowd the pan; if necessary, sear in batches to ensure good browning on each side.
After searing, don’t forget to transfer it to the oven. This helps finish cooking while keeping the meat juicy!
How to Make Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork:
- 1-1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake in the oven. In total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish! Relax while the pork cooks and your kitchen fills with delicious smells.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s important to get the oven nice and hot for the pork to bake perfectly.
2. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin:
Take your pork tenderloin and trim off any excess fat. This will help it cook evenly. Then, pat it dry with some paper towels. Moisture can prevent a nice browning on the meat, so this step is important!
3. Make the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This seasoning mix is key to adding lots of flavor to your pork. Rub this mixture all over the pork tenderloin evenly, ensuring every side is coated.
4. Sear the Pork Tenderloin:
Take an oven-safe skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork tenderloin. Sear it on all sides until it’s browned, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds a nice crust and flavor.
5. Brush with BBQ Sauce:
Once you have a beautiful brown crust on the pork, it’s time to glaze it! Brush a generous layer of BBQ sauce all over the tenderloin. Don’t be shy—cover all the sides to get that delicious BBQ flavor in every bite.
6. Bake the Pork:
Now, carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This will ensure the pork is juicy and fully cooked.
7. Rest and Additional Sauce:
Once the pork is done, take it out of the oven and brush on another layer of BBQ sauce for extra flavor. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes to keep it juicy before slicing.
8. Slice and Serve:
Finally, slice the pork tenderloin into nice medallions. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a nice touch!
Enjoy your delicious, oven-baked BBQ pork tenderloin! It’s perfect for any occasion and sure to impress your family and friends.
Can I Use a Different Cut of Pork for This Recipe?
Of course! If you can’t find pork tenderloin, pork loin or pork chops can be good substitutes. Just note that cooking times may vary—pork loin usually takes longer to cook than tenderloin, so check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What if I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No problem! You can make a simple marinade with equal parts ketchup and apple cider vinegar, mixed with a bit of brown sugar, paprika, and some spices. Alternatively, using a homemade sauce or even a dry rub can add flavor—just follow the original instructions for searing and baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To keep it moist when reheating, add a splash of water or BBQ sauce and cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap!
Can I Make This Dish on the Grill Instead?
Absolutely! You can grill the tenderloin over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Brush with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for a nice glaze.
