Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat that can dry out quickly if overcooked, so it’s important to know the right temperature and cooking time to ensure it stays juicy and tender. In this article, I will share step-by-step instructions on how to cook pork tenderloin in the oven

1. Frequently Asked Questions

1.1. Is it Better To Cook a Pork Tenderloin at 350 or 400?

The best oven temperature for cooking pork tenderloin is 375°F. However, if you have to choose between cooking at 350°F or 400°F, it’s generally better to cook at 400°F.

Cooking at a higher temperature will result in a quicker cooking time, which can help prevent the pork from drying out. A higher temperature can also give the outside of the pork a nice sear and caramelization, which can add flavor and texture to the finished dish.

That being said, cooking at 400°F also requires more attention to avoid overcooking and burning the pork tenderloin. It’s important to monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer and remove the pork from the oven when it reaches 145°F for safe consumption.

1.2. Should Pork Tenderloin Be Roasted Covered or Uncovered?

Pork tenderloin should be roasted uncovered in the oven. Roasting uncovered allows the heat to circulate around the meat, which helps to develop a crispy and caramelized exterior while allowing the interior to cook evenly.

When cooking pork tenderloin, it is generally better to cook it fast rather than slow. Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat that cooks quickly, and cooking it too slowly can result in a dry and tough texture.

1.4. Should Flip Pork Tenderloin in Oven?

Yes, it is a good idea to flip your pork tenderloin in the oven during cooking. Flipping the tenderloin will help to ensure even cooking on both sides, which can prevent one side from becoming too browned or overcooked while the other side is undercooked.

2. Best Damn Roasted Pork Tenderloin

Ingredients

  • 1 pork tenderloin
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and minced garlic.

Place the pork tenderloin in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Reserve the marinade for later.

Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper. Sear the pork in the skillet until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for 20 – 25 minutes, and flip it over after about 10 – 12 minutes of cooking.

Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the pork to a cutting board. Tent the pork loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Meanwhile, pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and cook over medium heat until thickened and reduced, stirring occasionally.

Slice the pork tenderloin into 1/2-inch-thick pieces and serve with the reduced marinade on top.

Enjoy your flavorful and juicy pork tenderloin!

3. Serving Suggestions

Pork tenderloin is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Roasted Vegetables: Serve the pork with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. You can roast the vegetables on the same pan as the pork for easy cleanup.

Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower: For a comforting side, pair the pork with creamy mashed potatoes or mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option.

Salad: A fresh, simple salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pork.

Grain Salad: Serve the pork over a quinoa or couscous salad with fresh herbs, feta cheese, and lemon dressing for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

4. Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, pork tenderloin can be stored and reheated with great results:

Refrigerate: Store leftover pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat Gently: To reheat, place the pork tenderloin slices in a skillet with a splash of broth or water over low heat, or microwave it on low power to prevent drying out the meat.

Oven Roasted Pork Tenderloin is a delicious, lean, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the right seasoning and cooking techniques, you can create a tender, juicy pork tenderloin that’s full of flavor and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

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Julia Jane is a home cook inspired by her mother's cooking. With the desire to share my cooking experiences with everyone, she created this website

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