Grilled Pork Tenderloin

This grilled pork tenderloin recipe is juicy, smoky, and filled with daring BBQ taste whereas nonetheless being fast sufficient for a straightforward weeknight dinner.

slices of grilled pork tenderloin with sauce

Pork tenderloin is among the finest cuts for grilling as a result of it cooks rapidly whereas staying extremely tender when accomplished correctly. This model is coated in a smoky spice rub with hints of paprika, garlic, thyme and brown sugar for the right stability of savory and barely candy flavors.

A fast sear over direct warmth locks in taste earlier than the pork finishes gently over oblique warmth, creating juicy slices each time. Serve it for informal summer season BBQs, simple household dinners, or meal prep all through the week.

For extra pork recipes, strive my Sluggish Cooker Balsamic Pork, this Sheet Pan Brown Sugar Pork Chops and my Sluggish Cooker Barbecue Pulled Pork.

Substances

Pork tenderloin: A lean, tender lower that cooks rapidly and stays juicy when grilled correctly.
Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick whereas including moisture to the meat.
Smoked paprika: Provides smoky depth and wealthy colour to the spice rub.
Garlic powder: Brings savory taste all through the pork.
Onion powder: Provides sweetness and fragrant depth.
Brown sugar: Helps caramelize the outside whereas balancing the spices.
Dried thyme: Brings earthy herb taste to the rub.
Chili powder: Provides refined smoky warmth.
BBQ sauce: Elective for a sticky, caramelized glaze on the finish of cooking.

See recipe card for portions.

Directions

Step 1: Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towel. Rub the pork throughout with olive oil.

ingredients and spices for pork tenderloin

Step 2: Mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, pepper and thyme.

pork tenderloin with oil and spices in a bowl

Step 3: Coat the tenderloin evenly within the spice combination.

Step 4: Sear the pork over direct warmth for about 2 minutes per facet till browned. Switch the tenderloin to oblique warmth and shut the grill lid. Prepare dinner for 12-18 minutes, turning midway by way of, till cooked by way of. Base and relaxation earlier than slicing.

Substitutions

Pork tenderloin: Substitute with hen breasts or boneless hen thighs.
Smoked paprika: Use common paprika or chipotle powder for further warmth.
Brown sugar: Honey or maple syrup can be utilized as a substitute.
BBQ sauce: Swap with sizzling honey glaze or a mustard-based sauce.

Variations

Add cayenne pepper for a spicier model.
End with contemporary chopped parsley or coriander for freshness.
Add lemon zest to the seasoning for a brighter taste profile.
Slice leftovers thinly for sandwiches, wraps or grain bowls.

Tools

A BBQ or grill with direct and oblique warmth zones works finest for even cooking. You will additionally want mixing bowls for the seasoning, tongs for turning the pork and a meat thermometer for correct doneness if most popular.

Storage

This pork tenderloin is nice for meal prep and will be grilled forward of time for simple lunches and dinners.

Retailer leftovers in an hermetic container within the fridge for 3-4 days. Freeze sliced or entire cooked pork for as much as 2 months. Reheat gently to keep away from drying out the meat.

High tip

For the juiciest pork tenderloin, take away it from the grill as soon as it reaches an inner temperature of 63°C (145°F). Resting the meat earlier than slicing permits the juices to redistribute and retains each slice tender.

FAQ

Why do you sear pork tenderloin first?

Searing creates a flavorful crust and locks in moisture earlier than the pork finishes cooking gently over oblique warmth. This technique provides you juicy meat with superbly caramelized taste.

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