Learn how to roast pork tenderloin! This step-by-step guide will help you cook the perfect pork tenderloin that’s tender, juicy, and flavorful every time.

Pork tenderloin and temperature

Temperature is important when it comes to roasting a pork tenderloin and there are two you need to keep in mind—what temp to roast at and what temp to roast to. 

What temperature to roast pork tenderloin at

For the best results, roast pork tenderloin at 375°F (190°C).

Pork tenderloin internal temperature

Roast pork tenderloin just until it reaches 145°F (62.7°C). I recommend you measure this using an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center of the pork tenderloin. If you want juicy meat, be sure to remove the tenderloin from the oven as soon as it reached 145°F.

How long to roast pork tenderloin?

Roast pork tenderloin for 15–20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

How to Roast Pork Tenderloin

Step 1: Trim silver skin and extra fat from tenderloin.

Trimming the silver skin will help to ensure your pork is tender and not tough.

Step 2: Tuck and tie tail end of tenderloin 

Not all tenderloins will need this, but most will. If your tenderloin has a smaller, thinner end, be sure to tuck and secure the last 2 inches or so of the tenderloin underneath itself. Use kitchen twine to secure.

Step 3: Sear tenderloin in sauté pan.

Searing adds flavor and helps to create a delicious crust on the outside.

Step 4: Coat tenderloin with dry rub (optional) or season with salt and pepper.

Don’t be afraid to season! Cooks often under season meat, don’t be afraid to use more salt than you think you need.

Step 5: Roast at 375°F (190°C).

Step 6: Remove tenderloin from oven when thermometer inserted in center registers 145°F (62.7°C).

Be vigilant in measuring the internal temperature. An instant-read thermometer will be your best friend here because it measures super fast and incredibly accurately. Pull the tenderloin from the oven as soon as you can after it reaches 145°F, this will guarantee a juicy tenderloin.  

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Step 7: Let tenderloin rest 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Let the tenderloin rest just a few minutes before slicing. Resting helps the tenderloin retain its flavorful juices.

Why pork tenderloin should be apart of your weekly meal plan

Pork tenderloin has a very similar nutritional profile to boneless, skinless chicken breasts. It’s lean, packed with protein, cooks very quickly and is extremely versatile.

We all know that chicken is king of meal prep and weekly meal plans. But why can’t pork tenderloin?

I’ve been making pork tenderloin a lot lately. Partially because I’ve been developing this recipe, but also because it’s so great to have on hand throughout the week.

 

How to use pork tenderloin in your meals throughout the week:

• Thinly sliced and used on a sandwich (make a meal prep banh mi maybe?!)
• Thinly sliced and used in a quesadilla (add some guac!)
• Served with roasted or grilled veggies (I like these zucchini skewers).
• Served over a herby green salad.

 

How to serve roast pork tenderloin:

I like to serve roast pork tenderloin with a creamy horseradish sauce or oil-based herb sauce.

Here’s a rough recipe for both:

Creamy Horseradish Sauce:

• Creme fraiche
• Prepared horseradish
• Fresh lemon zest
• Salt and pepper
• Minced fresh garlic

Whisk everything together and season to taste.

Herb Sauce

• 2 cups mixed fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, basil)
• Chopped fresh garlic
• Jalapeno  
• Ground coriander
• Salt
• Good olive oil
• Honey
• Vinegar

Pulse first 5 ingredients in a food processor. While processor is running, stream remaining ingredients in until emulsified; season to taste.

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This sponsored post is in partnership with the Iowa Pork Producers Association. As always the thoughts, opinions, recipe, photos and content are all my own.