Juicy Oven Cooked Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Total Servings: 4

Total Cost for All Ingredients: $20.53

Cost Per Serving: $5.13

Ingredients & Costs*

2.25 lb pork tenderloin ($7.72)
1 tbsp onion powder ($1.12)
1 tbsp garlic powder ($1.12)
1 tbsp salt ($1.67)
1 tbsp pepper ($3.12)
2 tbsp olive oil ($5.78)

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*Food costs may vary and can change over time. The prices listed were the current prices of these ingredients when this recipe was made for this post. Almost all our ingredients are purchased from Walmart as we live in a small town without any other options. If you notice a significant price difference, please let us know at hello@freshgains.com we can update this post.

Tips for Perfect Oven Cooked Pork Tenderloin

Season all sides of the tenderloin: Aside from the juiciness of this recipe, the best part is how it becomes perfectly seasoned when cooking. Make sure to cover all sides of the tenderloin with olive oil and seasoning prior to cooking.

Make sure your baking sheet can catch the juices: As you might have noticed, this recipe is very juicy. When baking, the baking sheet will fill with juices. We’d recommend making sure the sides of your baking sheet are at least 1/2 inch tall. This will make sure it catches the juice and make it much easier for removing from the oven.

Consider Marinating: For this recipe, I simply used a blend of seasonings to complement the pork tenderloin. If you have extra time, you can also marinade the tenderloin from a few hours to overnight. Marinating will infuse the meat with even more flavor and create an even juicier tenderloin when fully cooked.

Give It a Sear: Before placing the pork tenderloin in the oven, consider giving it a sear in a hot skillet. Searing the tenderloin will create a caramelized crust which helps lock in the juice and flavors. The result is a tender and juicy tenderloin.

Use a Meat Thermometer: It’s important to avoid overcooking pork. To ensure the tenderloin is fully cooked, but not overcooked, use a meat thermometer. Pork is considered fully cooked and safe to consume when the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Let It Rest: When you pull this tenderloin out of the oven, it may be difficult to allow it to rest. But if you allow the tenderloin to rest for five to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven, the juices will have time redistribute throughout the meat which ensures each bite has the most flavor possible. Once five to 10 minutes has passed, you can slice the tenderloin and serve it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Pork Tenderloins

How do I add heat to this recipe?

If you’re looking for a spicier tenderloin there are a couple ways to increase the heat: add red pepper flakes and/or chili powder to your seasoning mix or top it with hot sauce prior to cooking.

Can I cook pork tenderloin from frozen?

While it’s possible to cook pork tenderloin from a frozen state, I would recommend that you completely thaw the tenderloin before cooking it. A frozen tenderloin will take significantly longer to cook while ultimately delivering an underwhelming flavor compared to a thawed tenderloin.

What sides go well with baked pork tenderloin?

Pork tenderloins are a versatile food which can be safely paired with nearly any food. Some great options to pair with this recipe are roasted vegetables (you can even place them on the same baking sheet), mashed potatoes, French fries, or a salad. Topping the tenderloin with sauce or gravy is also a great option to complement the meat.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored for 3 to 4 days when refrigerated in an airtight container. This recipe can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I use the same recipe for grilling?

If you prefer to cook this pork tenderloin on the grill instead of in the oven, you can follow the same directions to marinade and/or season the pork. In the grill, you’ll need to preheat it to medium-high heat and then cook the tenderloin for about 15 to 20 minutes. Remember to turn the tenderloin occasionally during cooking to allow an even cook.