If you’re looking for a dinner that’s both impressive and surprisingly simple, this Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, tender pork tenderloins get a beautiful flavor boost from a sweet and smoky spice rub, then finish with a rich butter melt that adds luscious moisture. It’s a perfect meal you can whip up in under 40 minutes and still end up with something restaurant-quality that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe lies in how straightforward, yet thoughtfully combined, the ingredients are. Each spice brings a unique layer of flavor—from the subtle sweetness of brown sugar to the warmth of smoked paprika and the herbal touch of Italian seasoning. Butter finishes the dish by adding a velvety richness that ties everything together beautifully.
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each): Choose tenderloins that are well-trimmed for even cooking and perfect tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness and helps form a caramelized crust on the pork.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky depth without needing a grill.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings savory goodness that pairs perfectly with pork.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle onion aroma that enhances the overall rub.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Gives a subtle kick that awakens your palate without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Offers a blend of herbs that balance the spice mix wonderfully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the pork’s natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste): Adds mild heat for complexity.
- 1/4 cup butter (cut into pats): Melts over the tenderloin, keeping the meat moist and adding richness.
- Chopped parsley (optional, to taste): Freshens the dish with a pop of color and brightness.
How to Make Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready
Preheat your oven to 400°F and position the rack in the middle. This temperature is perfect to develop a beautiful crust while cooking the pork evenly throughout.
Step 2: Prep the Tenderloins
Trim off any excess fat and the silver skin from each pork tenderloin—this connective tissue doesn’t tenderize well during cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure your spice rub sticks and creates that lovely crust.
Step 3: Make and Apply the Spice Rub
Mix all the spices—brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper—in a small bowl. Rub this seasoning blend generously all over the tenderloins. This step is key for locking in flavor and giving the pork its signature sweet and smoky taste.
Step 4: Prepare to Bake
Place the seasoned tenderloins in a 9×13-inch baking dish or something similar in size. Dot the top of each with pats of butter. As the pork bakes, the butter melts and keeps the meat tender and juicy, adding richness to every bite.
Step 5: Bake the Pork
Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Using a meat thermometer here ensures perfectly cooked pork—juicy and safe to eat. Once out of the oven, let the tenderloins rest for 5 to 10 minutes; this helps the juices redistribute for a moist, flavorful finish.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Before slicing into medallions, spoon the delicious pan juices from the bottom of the dish over the pork—this liquid gold adds extra flavor and keeps the meat succulent. Sprinkle chopped parsley for a fresh and vibrant touch if you like.
How to Serve Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a lovely way to add color and a subtle herbal note. For a touch of brightness, you could also add some lemon zest or serve with a side of tangy applesauce to complement the pork’s sweet and smoky profile.
Side Dishes
This pork pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes where those buttery pan juices can really shine. Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, add earthiness and texture that balance the dish nicely. For something lighter, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette is a fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, slice the pork into thick medallions and fan them on a platter, drizzled with the pan juices. Try stacking the slices alongside colorful roasted veggies for a vibrant presentation. You could even serve the medallions nestled on a bed of garlic-infused quinoa or couscous for a modern twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the pork cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or placing it in an airtight container. Stored this way in the refrigerator, your leftover tenderloin will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days—perfect for quick lunches or a speedy dinner later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep the pork longer, it freezes very well. Wrap the roast tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn and store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep tasty for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To keep the pork tender when reheating, warm it gently in the oven at 300°F covered with foil, or slice it and warm it quickly in a skillet with a splash of broth. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent drying out the meat.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
While pork tenderloin works best for quick baking and tenderness, pork loin can also be used but typically requires longer cooking time to stay juicy. Adjust cooking time and monitor temperature carefully if you switch cuts.
What if I don’t have all the spices for the rub?
The spice blend is flexible! You can omit chili powder if you want less heat or swap Italian seasoning for dried thyme or rosemary. The key flavors are the brown sugar and smoked paprika for sweetness and smokiness.
How do I know when the pork tenderloin is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F followed by a rest. This temperature ensures juicy, safe-to-eat pork without drying it out.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can coat the pork with the spice rub and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight for even deeper flavor. Just bring it to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
What if I want a sauce to go with the pork?
The pan juices alone are delicious, but you can quickly make a sauce by deglazing the baking dish with some chicken broth or white wine on the stove, then stirring in a touch of mustard or cream for added richness.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to keep bookmarked for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. It delivers big on flavor and satisfaction with effortless preparation, which makes it a true kitchen hero. Give it a try and let this tender, buttery, spice-kissed pork become your new go-to meal — dinner just got a serious upgrade!
Print
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 delivers a juicy, flavorful main dish that’s simple to prepare. Coated in a savory spice rub and baked with butter, the pork tenderloins come out tender and aromatic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time.
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and position the rack to the middle level to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare Tenderloins: Trim any excess fat and remove the silver skin from the pork tenderloins. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to help the spice rub adhere better.
- Make and Apply Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Coat the tenderloins evenly with the spice rub on all sides.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the seasoned pork tenderloins in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Distribute the pats of butter on top of the tenderloins to melt and baste during baking.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F using a meat thermometer. This timing ensures the pork stays juicy and safe to eat.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the pork to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking to retain its juices. Slice into medallions, pour the pan juices over the top, and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Removing silver skin improves tenderness and texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is perfectly cooked at 145°F.
- Butter adds richness and helps keep the pork moist during baking.
- Pan juices make a delicious natural sauce; don’t discard them.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to avoid drying out.
