This juicy BBQ pork tenderloin is baked to perfection in the oven. With a sticky, sweet sauce, it’s a treat for your taste buds!
Seriously, who doesn’t love the smell of BBQ filling their home? I can’t resist having seconds (or thirds!). It’s so simple to make, just mix, brush, and bake — easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut of meat is lean and cooks quickly. If you want a richer flavor, you could use pork loin instead, but be aware it may take a bit longer to cook. Turkey tenderloin is also a great alternative for a leaner option.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade for a personal touch! If you’re looking for a healthier version, try a sugar-free BBQ sauce or even a marinade like soy sauce mixed with honey.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. You can swap it with sunflower oil or any neutral oil if you prefer. I often use avocado oil for its high smoke point and health benefits.
Spices: The smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor, but regular paprika works too. If you’re out of garlic or onion powder, fresh minced garlic and onions can work in a pinch — just adjust the amounts to taste.
How Can You Ensure the Pork Turns Out Juicy and Tender?
The key to a moist pork tenderloin is in the cooking process. Preheat your oven and use a meat thermometer to monitor doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy perfection. Letting it rest after cooking helps redistribute the juices.
- Rub olive oil well to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; it can go from perfect to dry very quickly!
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
Easy Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (1 to 1.5 lb) pork tenderloin
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30-35 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious and succulent BBQ pork tenderloin ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your oven is hot enough to cook the pork evenly and give it a nice crust.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This blend will give your pork a wonderful flavor!
3. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin:
Take the pork tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick better. Drizzle the olive oil over the pork and rub it all over to coat evenly.
4. Season the Pork:
Sprinkle your spice mixture over the pork tenderloin, ensuring it’s evenly covered. Press gently to help the spices stick well.
5. Bake the Pork:
Place the seasoned tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. This will make cleanup easier! Bake it in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
6. Add BBQ Sauce:
After 20 minutes, carefully remove the pork from the oven. Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the top of the tenderloin.
7. Finish Baking:
Return the pork to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes. Brush on more barbecue sauce halfway through, ensuring it’s sticky and crispy. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Rest and Slice:
Once out of the oven, let the pork rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist when you slice.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the tenderloin and serve it with any remaining barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious, tender, and flavorful BBQ pork tenderloin!
FAQ for Easy Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use pork loin or even pork chops, but cooking times may vary. Make sure to check the internal temperature—pork should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce on hand, try using a marinade, teriyaki sauce, or a homemade mixture of ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar. You can customize flavors by adding spices as desired!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or briefly in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying it out.
Can I Freeze the Cooked Pork Tenderloin?
Absolutely! Let the cooked pork cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
