Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (2024)

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission.

We love Baked Pork Tenderloin and this recipe is sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. It’s super easy and oh so tasty and tender.

Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (1)

Baked Pork Tenderloin

We like to eat pork tenderloin in our house and I am always looking for different ways to dress it up. This is by far one of the easiest things I have done to a tenderloin.

It came out super moist and very tasty! I think your family will enjoy quick and easy pork chops recipes as much as we do.

Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (2)

What is the different between Pork Tenderloin and Pork Loin:

Pork tenderloin and pork loin are 2 different cuts of meat.

A pork tenderloin is a thinner, boneless and longer cut of meat that comes from the muscle around the backbone.

A pork loin is a larger cut of meat. It can come boneless or bone-in. It looks more like a roast and comes from the back of the animal.

Since these are 2 different cuts of meats, the cook time is different for each one. In this recipe, I use a pork tenderloin.

Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (3)

How do I cook a pork tenderloin in the oven?

If you are wondering how to get a delicious and tender pork tenderloin, it all can be done in the oven!

You will learn how to cook a pork tenderloin in the oven for the absolute best dinner! Your family will love this recipe and ask for seconds.

Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (4)

Ingredients for Oven Roasted Pork Tenderloin:

  • Pork Tenderloin
  • Olive Oil
  • Paprika (See The Best Paprika Substitutes)
  • Italian Seasoning
  • Salt and Pepper
  • Lemon, juiced
  • Butter

Ingredient Substitution Ideas:

  • For the Oil – Any cooking oil that you prefer will work in this recipe.
  • For the Seasonings – I love the combination of the paprika, Italian seasoning and lemon in this recipe. But you can easily switch it out for your favorites. Oregano, thyme and basil would all be delicious on the baked pork tenderloin.
  • For the Butter – The butter is very important in this recipe as it makes the pork moist and tender. I do not recommend leaving it out. But if you must, then I recommend adding more oil to keep the pork moist.
  • Add Garlic – If you love garlic, you can easily add 1 tsp of minced garlic or ½ tsp of garlic powder or garlic salt to add a slightly garlic flavor to this recipe.

How to Cook Pork Tenderloin in the Oven with Foil:

First preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Place each pork tenderloin in the center of a piece of foil. Rub the olive oil on the pork tenderloins.

Combine the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper together in a small bowl.

Sprinkle the seasoning mixture on each pork tenderloin and top with the lemon juice.

Cut the butter into slabs and place on top of the foil.

Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (5)

Cover the pork with the foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.

Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (6)

Then open the foil packets. Broil for 3-4 minutes to brown the pork slightly.

Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (7)

Then slice, serve and enjoy.

Keep reading to jump to recipe below and to review all the nutritional information.

Pork Tenderloin Oven Temp:

I find that it’s best to cook pork tenderloin at a high temperature in the oven and for a shorter amount of time to make sure that the pork does not dry out.

For this recipe, I cook the pork tenderloin at 400 degrees F.

How long to cook pork tenderloin in oven at 350:

I prefer to cook this pork at a high temperature. However, you can cook pork at 350 degrees F as well. It will take longer to cook through.

If you are cooking at 350, cook the pork tenderloin for 27 minutes-35 minutes until. the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.

How to know when the Pork Tenderloin is Done:

I have been making pork for a long time now and I have found that you will need a meat thermometer to know when the pork is ready.

The internal temperature should be 145 degrees F. You do not want the temperature to be much higher than that as it will dry out the pork.

I love this instant read thermometer. I do not like dried out pork, so I recommend using the lower end of the cook time on this recipe. Then check the pork temperature.

If it’s not at the safe cooking temperature, then continue to cook it until the safe temperature has been reached. Watch the pork closely as it cooks to make sure that it doesn’t dry out.

How long to Bake Pork Loin:

You can make this recipe with a pork loin instead of a pork tenderloin. Since pork loin is a larger cut of meat, it will need a longer cook time in the oven.

I would still wrap it in foil to prevent the outside from getting too brown and it would need to cook in the oven for 60-75 minutes at 400 degrees F until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F.

This recommend time is for a 3 pound pork loin, so you would need to adjust the time accordingly based on the size of your pork to make the best roasted pork loin.

Tips for this Recipe:

  • We use heavy duty foil to wrap the pork tenderloins so that the foil does not easily rip. I find that wrapping the pork helps it not to dry out and makes clean up very easy too.
  • Since we wrapped the pork first, we cook it on a baking pan but you can cook it in a roasting pan as well.
  • Many recipes call for searing the pork in a pan before baking it. I do not like getting another pan dirty, so I skip that step and boil a few minutes after the cook time to brown the pork slightly. You can pre-sear the pork prior to baking it if you prefer.
  • Make sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the pork has been cooked to a safe temperature before eating it.
  • Let the pork sit for 5 minutes before cutting it to make sure that the juices stay inside of the pork to keep it moist.
Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (8)

What to Serve with Baked Pork Tenderloin:

This easy baked pork tenderloin pretty much goes with anything. Here are a few of my favorite side dishes to serve with this pork recipe.

  • Homemade Mashed Potatoes
  • Easy Cheesy Skillet Potatoes
  • Crock Pot Potatoes Recipe

This pork also goes great with a large salad or a veggie for a light and healthy dinner. Here are a few of my favorite vegetable recipes that would go great with this pork tenderloin.

  • Green Beans with Bacon
  • Garlic Lime Asparagus

How to Store:

Refrigerate any leftover pork in an air tight container for up to 3-4 days. Add more butter, chicken broth or olive oil to the pork when reheating it to prevent it from drying out.

You can also freeze leftover pork for up to 3-4 months. Defrost it out overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature and then reheat.

Print this Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe below:

Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (9)

Review

Pin Print

Baked Pork Tenderloin

4.98 from 81 votes

Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe will impress even the pickiest of eaters. Baking pork tenderloin is so simple and easy. Learn how to bake pork tenderloin.

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings 6

Cuisine American

Course Main Course

Calories 276

Author Carrie Barnard

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

  • Place each pork tenderloin in the center of a piece of foil.

  • Rub the olive oil on the pork tenderloins.

  • Combine the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper together in a small bowl.

  • Sprinkle the seasoning mixture on each pork tenderloin and top with the lemon juice.

  • Cut the butter into slabs and place on top of the foil.

  • Cover the pork with the foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.

  • Then open the foil packets. Broil for 3-4 minutes to brown the pork slightly.

  • Slice serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

*Watch closely and make sure not to overcook the pork. I use a meat thermometer to ensure that it’s cooked to a safe temperature.

*Refrigerate the leftovers in an air tight container for up to 4-5 days.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 276kcal, Carbohydrates 2g, Protein 32g, Fat 15g, Saturated Fat 7g, Polyunsaturated Fat 1g, Monounsaturated Fat 6g, Trans Fat 1g, Cholesterol 118mg, Sodium 534mg, Potassium 634mg, Fiber 1g, Sugar 1g, Vitamin A 330IU, Vitamin C 10mg, Calcium 23mg, Iron 2mg

Pin This Now to Remember It Later

Pin Recipe

More Pork Recipes:

  • Balsamic Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin Recipe
  • Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin Recipe
  • Slow Cooker Pork Tenderloin Recipe
  • Cranberry Orange Crock Pot Pork Tenderloin Recipe
  • Crock Pot Teriyaki Pork Chops
Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (10)

Try these other recipes

Easy Grilling

Shish Kabob Recipe

Easy Casserole

Hamburger Potato Casserole

Easy Slow Cooker

Crock Pot Dill Pickle Pot Roast

Easy Grilling

Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos

Quick and Easy Instant Pot

Instant Pot Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Quick and Easy Chicken

Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Easy Mexican

Chicken Fajita Quesadillas Recipe

Easy Grilling

Chick-fil-A Grilled Chicken Nuggets

About the Author

Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (19)

Hi, I’m Carrie. Welcome to Eating on a Dime!

I’m on a mission to help you cook delicious meals without busting your budget. Together we are going to cook real food… for real families!

About Carrie Page
Oven Baked Pork Tenderloin Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What temperature should pork tenderloin be cooked at in the oven? ›

Pre-heat oven to 325F (165C). Bake pork tenderloin in the oven UNCOVERED for approximately 20-25 MINUTES *PER POUND* (44-55 MINUTES PER KILOGRAM) Or until internal temperature reaches 155F (68C), rested to a final 160F (71C).

How long does it take to cook pork tenderloin at 350? ›

From oven oven-roasting to grilling, here's a quick guide to cooking times: How long to cook pork tenderloin in oven at 350°F: Placed in a baking dish and cooked uncovered, a pork tenderloin will take around 20-27 minutes at 350°F.

Is it better to cook a pork loin at 350 or 400? ›

First, you will want to preheat your oven to 400° F. You will end up lowering the heat later on but it is important to start at a high temp to trap the moisture inside the pork loin. Next, grab your favorite dry rub and rub it all over the pork loin and make sure it's evenly distributed throughout the whole loin.

How long to cook pork tenderloin at 400? ›

Bake at 400 degrees F until pork registers between 145- and 150-degrees F (63 and 65 degrees C) at the thickest part of the tenderloin, 15-25 minutes depending on thickness. This means the pork will be juicy and slightly pink in the middle.

What is the best temperature for tenderloin? ›

Knowing how long to cook and the right beef tenderloin temperature is key to any tenderloin recipe. Timings are based on meat removed directly from the refrigerator. For roasts that are 2 to 3 pounds, roast at 425°F for 35 to 40 minutes for medium rare (135°F) and 45 to 50 minutes for medium (150°F) doneness.

Is it better to cook pork tenderloin covered or uncovered? ›

Place it in the hot oven and roast until an instant-read thermometer registers 145°F (medium), 20-30 minutes. If roasting for longer than 20 minutes, cover the pork loosely with foil to prevent the top from burning. Remove the tenderloin from the oven.

Is it better to cook pork tenderloin fast or slow? ›

The size and structure of a tenderloin make it perfect for cooking quickly on high heat. You want to be able to brown the outside while still keeping it a little pink on the inside.

How long to cook a 1 lb pork tenderloin at 350 degrees? ›

A good rule of thumb is to cook pork loin 25 minutes per pound at 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). The internal temperature should be at least 145 degrees F (63 degrees C), so use a thermometer to know when it's done. You'll want to let your pork loin rest at least three minutes before serving.

Should I cover pork in oven? ›

Tenting can be suitable for some cuts of meat, but if you want a crunchy crust on your roast, then it's best to leave it uncovered. If you notice that the roasted pork is browning too much, you can lightly cover it with aluminum foil. However, do not cover it for the last 5-10 minutes in the oven.

How many minutes per pound for pork at 350? ›

Lower heat to 350 degrees F and cook for 20 per pound until the internal temperature reads 145 degrees F. Remove pan from oven, and put a piece of foil loosely on top of the roast. Let meat rest for 10 minutes.

Should I wrap my pork tenderloin in foil? ›

Foil-wrapped pork tenderloin is a great way to prepare this cut of meat to lock in flavor and moisture. Pork loin may not be as apt to dry out, but covering your pan with foil while roasting helps the meat retain its juiciness.

How long does it take to cook a tenderloin in the oven at 400 degrees? ›

Bake for about 25-35 minutes until center temperature reaches 145 degrees.

What temperature and how long do you cook a Smithfield pork tenderloin? ›

Oven: Heat oven to 425°F. Place pork on rack in shallow roasting pan. Roast 25 to 30 minutes per pound. Grill: Heat charcoal or gas grill to medium.

How do I know when pork tenderloin is done? ›

The safe internal pork cooking temperature for fresh cuts is 145° F. To check doneness properly, use a digital cooking thermometer. Fresh cut muscle meats such as pork chops, pork roasts, pork loin, and tenderloin should measure 145° F, ensuring the maximum amount of flavor.

Should pork tenderloin be at 350 or 375? ›

Safe internal temperature: The recommended safe internal temperature for cooked pork loin is 145°F (63°C). Cook time estimate: A good rule of thumb is to cook pork loin at 350°F for 20-25 minutes per pound.

Is it better to cook pork tenderloin on high heat or low heat? ›

"You want to get the pork in contact with high heat, so you can create a beautiful crust that provides a delicious and complex flavor," Robinson explains, "[and] you can achieve this by searing in a pan on high heat, or roasting in an oven around 425 degrees."

How long to cook 2.5 lb pork tenderloin in oven at 400? ›

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) on a digital meat thermometer. Let It Rest: Once the pork tenderloin is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

How long to cook a 2 lb pork loin at 400 degrees? ›

Cook the pork loin for 10 minutes in the 400-degree oven. This will help to create a kind of “crust” on the meat to help keep the juices inside. Next, lower your oven temperature to 350 degrees F and continue to cook your roast for about 20 minutes per pound of meat.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Kareem Mueller DO

Last Updated:

Views: 6482

Rating: 4.6 / 5 (66 voted)

Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Kareem Mueller DO

Birthday: 1997-01-04

Address: Apt. 156 12935 Runolfsdottir Mission, Greenfort, MN 74384-6749

Phone: +16704982844747

Job: Corporate Administration Planner

Hobby: Mountain biking, Jewelry making, Stone skipping, Lacemaking, Knife making, Scrapbooking, Letterboxing

Introduction: My name is Kareem Mueller DO, I am a vivacious, super, thoughtful, excited, handsome, beautiful, combative person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.