Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe

An Easy, Delicious, and Juicy Pork Tenderloin

Pork tenderloin is a wonderfully lean and tender cut of meat that, when cooked properly, results in a juicy, flavorful dish that will wow your guests and make your weeknight dinner special. This Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin recipe is simple to make, with a few seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the pork.

With a perfectly seasoned crust, a moist interior, and a slightly crispy exterior, this pork tenderloin is a go-to meal for those who want succulent meat without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad, it’s sure to be a hit every time.

Ingredients

For the Pork Tenderloin:

1 (450g) pork tenderloin
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Pan Sauce (Optional but Recommended):

100ml chicken broth
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Step 2: Season the Pork Tenderloin

Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy crust.
Rub the olive oil all over the pork tenderloin.
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the pork, making sure to coat all sides.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Tenderloin

Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Once hot, add the seasoned pork tenderloin and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until a golden-brown crust forms.
Once seared, remove the skillet from heat.

Step 4: Bake the Pork Tenderloin

Transfer the skillet with the pork into the preheated oven.
Roast the pork for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F).
Once done, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Step 5: Make the Pan Sauce (Optional)

While the pork rests, place the skillet over medium heat and add the chicken broth to the pan.
Stir to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
Add the Dijon mustard, honey, and butter and whisk until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the sauce over the sliced pork tenderloin before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Slice the pork tenderloin into 1-inch thick slices.
Drizzle with the pan sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 4 Servings)

Calories: 270 kcal
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fats: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient choices.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin

✨ Searing is key – Don’t skip the searing step! It adds a delicious crust that enhances the flavor.

✨ Use a meat thermometer – To ensure your pork is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) for a juicy, tender result.

✨ Rest before slicing – Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps keep the juices inside, resulting in a more moist and flavorful pork tenderloin.

✨ Make the pan sauce – The pan sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and is a perfect complement to the pork. Don’t skip this step!

✨ Try different seasonings – Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Cumin, oregano, or even a bit of chili powder can give the pork a unique twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just about 40 minutes.
✔ Perfectly Tender – Moist, juicy pork tenderloin with a crispy crust.
✔ Versatile – Serve it with any side—mashed potatoes, rice, or a salad.
✔ One-Pan Meal – Simple preparation with easy cleanup.
✔ Make Ahead Option – You can prep the seasoning and store it in the fridge for a quick dinner.