This guide will show you how to prepare a tender and juicy roasted pork tenderloin using the oven. With a few simple steps, you can create a delicious main dish that is perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Say goodbye to overcooked and tough pork, and say hello to a perfectly cooked, flavorful meal!
The King of All Cuts
Pork tenderloin is truly the king of all cuts of pork. Its name speaks for itself—it is incredibly tender when cooked correctly, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Unlike pork loin, which is thicker and better suited for roasts and chops, pork tenderloin is long and thin, making it ideal for roasting.
How to Prepare Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is incredibly versatile and can be prepared in various ways. Whether you bake it in the oven, grill it on the BBQ, or even cook it in the air fryer, you’ll achieve delicious results. Consider trying stuffed pork tenderloin or herb-crusted pork tenderloin for added flavor. You can also slice it into medallions for quick weeknight meals.
When it comes to seasoning, simplicity is key. A sprinkle of salt and pepper or your favorite seasonings is all you need to enhance the natural flavors of this premium cut of meat.
Tips for Perfectly Juicy Pork Tenderloin
The secret to juicy pork tenderloin lies in avoiding overcooking. Gone are the days when pork had to be cooked to the point of toughness. Nowadays, it is safe to consume pork cooked to medium (145°F). This leaves the meat slightly pink in the center and incredibly tender and juicy.
Here are some tips for achieving the perfect pork tenderloin:
- Cook at a high temperature to enhance the color and flavor of the outside.
- Brush the tenderloin with olive oil and seasonings before cooking.
- Use a thermometer to ensure precise cooking temperature.
- Let the meat rest before cutting for optimal juiciness.
- If cooking pork tenderloin medallions, fry or grill them for just a few minutes on each side.
- Avoid overcooking, as pork tenderloin is lean and can easily become dry.
Using a thermometer is crucial for achieving perfection. Invest in a digital thermometer with a probe that can be inserted into the meat. This simple tool ensures that you cook not only pork but various other types of meat to perfection.
Pork Tenderloin Temperatures
When roasting pork tenderloin, it should reach a tender juicy temperature of 145°F. Roasting it to medium doneness ensures that it is slightly pink in the center, resulting in the juiciest meat. Remember to allow the meat to rest for about 5 minutes before cutting it.
What Color is a Cooked Pork Tenderloin?
Cooking pork tenderloin to 145°F means that it will have a touch of pink in the middle. This is perfectly normal and ensures that the pork is juicy and tender. For the best results, serve your pork tenderloin with just a hint of pink in the center.
More Pork Recipes We Love
If you enjoyed this roasted pork tenderloin recipe, be sure to check out these other pork recipes that are guaranteed to impress:
- Pork Carnitas Recipe – a delicious slow cooker recipe!
- Instant Pot Pork Chops – perfectly juicy & full of flavor!
- Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin – perfect grilled or baked.
- Grilled Marinated Pork Chops – a simple supper idea.
- Honey Glazed Mushroom Pork Chops – a 30-minute meal!
Did you enjoy this Roasted Pork Tenderloin? Be sure to leave a rating and a comment below!
We are excited to have partnered with the National Pork Board to bring you this mouthwatering recipe. While the author was hosted in Sioux Falls and compensated for this post, rest assured that all thoughts and opinions are their own. Working with great brands like Ekilove allows us to continue providing you with amazing recipes. So, let’s get cooking and enjoy some delicious pork tenderloin!
