If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends, then this baked pork tenderloin is the answer. This recipe combines juicy, tender meat with flavorful seasonings, creating a meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish requires minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor. With just a few ingredients that you probably already have at home, you’ll discover how straightforward it can be to create an impressive main course that rivals any restaurant dish. The magic lies in the baking process; as the pork cooks in the oven, it becomes incredibly tender while absorbing all the spices and flavors. So grab your apron and get ready to whip up an incredible baked pork tenderloin that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Pork Tenderloin
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Baked Pork Tenderloin
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pork Tenderloin: Choose a fresh cut weighing about 1-1.5 pounds for optimal tenderness.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to help keep the meat moist during cooking.
- Garlic Powder: This adds a rich depth of flavor; opt for fresh minced garlic if preferred.
- Onion Powder: A great seasoning that enhances the overall taste profile of the dish.
- Dried Herbs (Thyme or Rosemary): Fresh or dried herbs work well; they add aromatic notes to the meat.
For the Marinade:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness of your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Pork Tenderloin
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme or rosemary until well combined.
Step 3: Season the Pork
Place the pork tenderloin in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Use your hands to rub the marinade into the meat thoroughly.
Step 4: Bake in Oven
Transfer the marinated pork tenderloin into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Rest Before Slicing
Once done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about five minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Slice into medallions and serve warm alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Enjoy this succulent baked pork tenderloin as an elegant yet easy meal option.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight
How to Serve Baked Pork Tenderloin
This Baked Pork Tenderloin is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the marinade for the Baked Pork Tenderloin up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix your ingredients, marinate the pork, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This enhances the flavors significantly.
- Storing: Leftover Baked Pork Tenderloin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing it, where it will maintain quality for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tenderloin in a baking dish and cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power, checking every minute until heated evenly.
Suggestions for Baked Pork Tenderloin
Avoid Overcooking the Meat
One of the most common mistakes when preparing baked pork tenderloin is overcooking. Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat that dries out easily if cooked too long. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly juicy results. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the tenderloin. Remove it from the oven as soon as it reaches this temperature and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
Neglecting to Marinate
Marinating your pork tenderloin enhances its flavor significantly. Many home cooks skip this step, but marination infuses the meat with moisture and taste. A simple marinade can include olive oil, garlic, herbs, and vinegar or citrus juice. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally, let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This not only boosts flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, making your baked pork tenderloin more enjoyable.
Skipping Seasoning
While pork has a naturally mild flavor, skipping seasoning can lead to bland results. Always season your pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper before baking. You can also experiment with other spices like paprika, cumin, or rosemary to add depth. Rubbing spices on the surface before cooking will create a beautiful crust that locks in moisture and enhances the overall taste of your dish.
Using a Cold Oven
Starting with a cold oven can result in uneven cooking and longer baking times. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) before placing the seasoned pork tenderloin inside. A hot oven ensures that the outside sears quickly while keeping the inside moist and tender. This method not only helps achieve a golden-brown crust but also maintains the juiciness of the meat.
FAQs
How do I know when baked pork tenderloin is done?
To determine if your baked pork tenderloin is done, use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching any bone for an accurate reading. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for clear juices running from the meat when you cut into it; pink juices indicate it may need more time.
Can I cook baked pork tenderloin from frozen?
Cooking baked pork tenderloin from frozen is not recommended due to uneven cooking risks. To ensure safety and quality, thaw your pork tenderloin in the refrigerator overnight before baking. If you’re short on time, you can use a microwave’s defrost setting; however, this may begin cooking parts of the meat unevenly. For best results, always bake fresh or properly thawed pork to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
What sides pair well with baked pork tenderloin?
Baked pork tenderloin pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes for a balanced meal. Additionally, creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice provide delicious contrasts in texture and taste. Don’t forget about fresh salads or apple sauce as refreshing accompaniments that enhance your dining experience.
Can I make baked pork tenderloin ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare baked pork tenderloin ahead of time! Cook it completely and allow it to cool before slicing it into portions. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage. When ready to serve again, reheat gently in an oven or microwave until warmed through without overcooking.
Conclusion for Baked Pork Tenderloin
In summary, achieving perfect baked pork tenderloin involves careful attention to preparation techniques like proper marination and seasoning while avoiding common pitfalls such as overcooking. Ensuring your oven is preheated will help lock in moisture and flavor effectively during baking. Keep these tips in mind for delicious results every time you prepare this delightful dish! Enjoy experimenting with different marinades and side dishes that elevate your dining experience around this versatile cut of meat.
Baked Pork Tenderloin
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Baked Pork Tenderloin is a succulent and flavorful dish that brings a touch of gourmet dining to your home. This easy-to-make recipe features tender pork marinated in a delightful blend of olive oil, garlic, and aromatic herbs, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this baked pork tenderloin requires minimal prep time while delivering impressive results that will leave your family and guests asking for more. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and elegant. Enjoy the rich taste of this savory pork dish as it melts in your mouth!
Ingredients
- 1–1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs until combined.
- Place the pork tenderloin in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, rubbing it into the meat thoroughly.
- Transfer the marinated pork to the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is reached.
- Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing into medallions and serving with your preferred sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 85g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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