Experience the Perfectly Juicy Pork Tenderloin

Ready for a quick and delicious grilling adventure?

This grilled pork tenderloin recipe is your ticket to a succulent, flavorful meal without the need for marinating.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, pork tenderloin is an affordable, lean cut of meat that cooks quickly and tastes incredible.

Let’s dive into the secret of making a juicy, tender grilled pork tenderloin that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

Pork Tenderloin: 3 lbs (2 tenderloins, about 1 1/2 lbs each)

Olive Oil: 1 1/2 Tbsp

Spice Rub:

2 tsp sea salt

1 tsp garlic powder

1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp ground cumin

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

1/2 tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat (400-425°F). Ensure the grates are hot and ready.

Prepare Tenderloin: Trim off any excess fat and silver skin. Pat the tenderloins dry with a paper towel and use a fork to pierce holes all over.

Season: Drizzle 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil over the meat, coating both sides. Mix your spices in a small bowl, then rub this blend evenly over the tenderloins. Press the spices into the meat for better adherence.

Grill: Place the tenderloins on the hot grill grates, cover, and cook for about 14 minutes, flipping halfway through. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Rest: Remove the tenderloins from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender. Slice into 1-inch thick medallions.

Pro Tip: Always use an instant-read meat thermometer to check for doneness at the thickest part of the tenderloin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I cook pork tenderloin on a gas grill or a charcoal grill?

Either works! The key is to ensure your grill reaches medium-high heat and the internal temperature of the tenderloins hits 145°F.

How do I prevent my pork tenderloin from drying out?

Cook with indirect heat (not directly over the flame) and keep the grill lid closed between flipping.

How do I know when pork tenderloin is done?

The USDA recommends grilling pork tenderloin until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Let it rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing.

Should I wrap my pork tenderloin in aluminum foil when grilling?

While some people suggest this to retain moisture, this recipe is naturally juicy. Plus, grilling directly on the grates gives you those beautiful grill marks and enhances the flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This quick recipe is ideal for unexpected guests or a fast weeknight meal. You can even prepare the tenderloin and rub ahead of time for added convenience.

To Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

To Freeze: After cooling, wrap the tenderloin in plastic, aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To Reheat: Reheat in a pan on the stove with some broth to prevent drying out. It also reheats well in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Pork tenderloin pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Try it with corn on the cob, grilled peaches, roasted Brussels sprouts, avocado corn salad, Greek lemon potatoes, or a fresh Caprese salad.

How to Grill Peaches: Simply slice the peaches lengthwise, remove the pit, brush with olive oil, and grill for 4-5 minutes per side. They’ll be sweet, juicy, and the perfect complement to the spicy pork.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 231

Protein: 35g

Fat: 9g

Carbohydrates: 1g

Sodium: 670mg

Grilled pork tenderloin is as delicious as it is easy to prepare. With this recipe, you’ll achieve a perfectly juicy and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Happy grilling!