If you’re looking for a dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor, then this Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. This tender, juicy pork tenderloin gets beautifully caramelized with a perfectly balanced spice rub and just a touch of butter to enhance its richness. It’s the kind of meal that feels effortlessly elegant yet cozy and familiar—the kind you’ll want to make again and again for family dinners or when friends come over. Trust me, once you try this, your pork tenderloin game will never be the same!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each bring a unique element to the dish. The blend of spices creates a flavorful crust, while the butter ensures the pork stays juicy and tender throughout baking.
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each): The star of the dish, lean and tender with quick cooking time.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps caramelize the exterior.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a lovely smoky warmth without overpowering the meat.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a savory depth that complements pork beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds mild sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings a gentle kick that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that adds an herbaceous punch.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and highlighting all other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste): Provides a subtle heat to complement the spices.
- 1/4 cup butter (cut into pats): Melts over the pork to keep it deliciously moist and rich.
- Chopped parsley (optional, to taste): A fresh pop of color and herbal brightness to finish the dish.
How to Make Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 400°F and positioning the rack in the middle. This ensures the tenderloin cooks evenly, getting that perfect balance of a juicy interior and a nicely browned exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Tenderloins
Trim off any excess fat and remove the silver skin, which can be tough if left on. Use a paper towel to pat the meat dry—this will help the spice rub stick better and promote a beautiful crust as it bakes.
Step 3: Make the Spice Rub
Combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until everything is evenly distributed, then massage this flavorful blend all over the pork tenderloins. This rub is the magic behind the dish’s amazing taste.
Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish
Place the seasoned pork tenderloins in a 9×13 baking dish or something similar in size. Dot the tops with pats of butter. As the butter melts, it bastes the pork, keeping it luscious and locking in moisture while adding richness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the pork uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. This temp is key for juicy and safe-to-eat pork. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting keeps the juices from escaping when you slice it, resulting in tender medallions every time.
Step 6: Serve with Pan Juices and Parsley
Drizzle the pan juices over the sliced pork to add extra flavor and moisture. A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds a vibrant splash of green but also a fresh herbal note that brightens the dish beautifully.
How to Serve Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate the presentation and flavor. Fresh chopped parsley adds fresh color and a mild herbal lift. For a little extra zest, a squeeze of lemon over the plated medallions can brighten all those warm spices beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe with hearty mashed potatoes to soak up those luscious pan juices. Roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots complement the smoky spice rub, or try a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, arrange sliced medallions on a wooden board alongside roasted garlic mashed potatoes and a drizzle of the pan sauce. Or serve over creamy polenta with a side of sautéed greens for a restaurant-worthy meal made right at home!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the cooked pork tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm slices gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat covered in the oven at 325°F until heated through. This keeps your pork tender and juicy just like the first time!
FAQs
Can I use chicken broth instead of butter for moisture?
Absolutely! While butter adds rich flavor and helps the crust form, you can substitute chicken broth for a lighter option that still keeps the pork tender and juicy during baking.
What temperature should pork tenderloin be cooked to?
The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F with a 3-minute rest time. This ensures the meat is safe to eat while staying moist and tender.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Feel free to add cayenne pepper or increase the chili powder to suit your heat preference. The spice rub is very versatile and can handle a little extra kick if you like.
Is it necessary to remove the silver skin?
It is highly recommended to remove the silver skin because it’s tough and does not break down during cooking. Removing it helps ensure each bite is tender and enjoyable.
How do I know when the pork is done without a thermometer?
While a meat thermometer is the most accurate, if you don’t have one, cook the pork for about 25 minutes in a 400°F oven and check that the juices run clear when pierced. The meat should feel firm but springy to the touch.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe is a total winner for anyone who loves meals that are fuss-free but packed with flavor. It’s a versatile, satisfying dish that works for weeknights or special occasions with equal success. Once you try it, you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients and a few careful steps come together to create something so deliciously memorable. Go ahead and make this recipe soon—you won’t regret having this delightful pork tenderloin on your table!
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Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin recipe features succulent pork tenderloins coated with a flavorful spice rub and baked to perfection. The combination of brown sugar, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning creates a savory and slightly sweet crust, while butter adds richness. Perfect for a simple yet impressive weeknight dinner, this dish is juicy, tender, and served with flavorful pan juices.
Ingredients
Spice Rub
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
Main Ingredients
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
- 1/4 cup butter (cut into pats)
- Chopped parsley (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and adjust the rack to the middle position to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare Tenderloins: Trim off any excess fat and the silver skin from each pork tenderloin, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to help the spice rub adhere better.
- Make and Apply Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork tenderloins until they are evenly coated.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the seasoned tenderloins in a 9×13-inch (or similar) baking dish. Dot the top of the tenderloins with the pats of butter for added moisture and flavor.
- Bake the Pork: Bake the pork uncovered in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. This ensures a tender, juicy result.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. After resting, slice the tenderloins into medallions for serving.
- Serve: Spoon the pan juices over the sliced pork for extra flavor, and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. These juices also pair wonderfully with side dishes like mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Resting the meat after baking is crucial for juicy, tender pork.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F.
- Pork tenderloin is lean; avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
- The pan juices can be used as a flavorful sauce over the pork or side dishes.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste for more or less spice.
