This oven baked BBQ pork tenderloin is juicy and full of flavor! The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce makes it a family favorite, and it’s easy enough for a weeknight meal.
I love how simple it is to prepare—just pop it in the oven and relax while the smell fills the house. Perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloins: This cut is tender and juicy, perfect for roasting. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, you can use chicken breast or beef tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking times as needed since they may vary.
Barbecue Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite BBQ sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a sugar-free or homemade version. I’ve even used a mix of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce when I was out of BBQ sauce, and it turned out great!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds great flavor and helps with browning. If you’re in need of a substitute, canola oil or avocado oil work well too, as they have high smoke points.
Spices: The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika really boosts flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a dash of cumin can add a nice depth of taste. Fresh garlic and onions can also be used if you prefer.
parsley: This is optional, but fresh parsley adds a nice color to the dish. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or use another fresh herb like cilantro or chives for garnish.
How Do I Properly Sear Pork Tenderloin?
Searing is crucial for locking in flavor and moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding oil.
- Pat the tenderloins dry to help achieve a great sear. Moisture will steam rather than brown the meat.
- Coat the bottom of your skillet with olive oil, and add the pork. Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear one tenderloin at a time if necessary.
- Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden-brown crust, which means you’re doing it right!
- Once seared, you can finish cooking in the oven. This two-step cooking method gives the best texture.
Oven Baked BBQ Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Spice Mix:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious oven baked BBQ pork tenderloin will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. Overall, plan for about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is important as it ensures the pork cooks evenly and develops a nice crust.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mix will give the pork a flavorful kick!
3. Season the Pork:
Pat the pork tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick better. Rub the spice mixture all over the tenderloins, making sure they’re well coated.
4. Sear the Pork:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned pork tenderloins. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This step adds flavor and helps lock in juices.
5. Add BBQ Sauce:
After browning the tenderloins, pour the barbecue sauce over them, making sure they’re well coated in that delicious BBQ goodness.
6. Bake the Pork:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for perfect doneness!
7. Let it Rest:
Once done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the pork rest for about 5 minutes. This will make the meat juicier when you slice into it.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pork tenderloins and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice color contrast and fresh flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! This spice rub and cooking method works well for chicken breasts or even beef tenderloin. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time: chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), while beef can be cooked to your desired doneness.
What Barbecue Sauce Should I Use?
Feel free to use your favorite barbecue sauce! You can even make your own for a fresher taste. For a sweeter flavor, go for a thicker sauce, while a vinegar-based sauce will give you a tangier result. Experiment and find what you love best!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at a low temperature to keep the pork moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts with a little splash of barbecue sauce to keep it flavorful.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the spice rub and coat the pork tenderloins with barbecue sauce ahead of time. Just wrap the tenderloins tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, just sear and bake as directed!
