Pork tenderloin is a great addition to any dinner. Whether you are looking to cook an everyday meal or celebrate a special occasion, a pork tenderloin cooked in the oven at 375 degrees can be just the thing! But how long should you bake your pork tenderloin for?
Read on to find out how long it takes to cook a pork tenderloin in the oven at 375 degrees and how to achieve juicy, tender meat every time.
Table of Contents
What is pork tenderloin and what are the best cooking times?
Pork tenderloin is a lean but flavorful cut of meat. It’s usually quite small, so it cooks quickly and requires minimal preparation. The best cooking time for pork tenderloin in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit is about 20 to 25 minutes per pound. This should produce juicy and flavorful pork that isn’t dried out or overcooked.
What temperature should I cook my pork tenderloin at?
Pork tenderloins are typically cooked between 325-375 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal results. If you’re looking for quick cooking times, you can crank up the heat and aim for 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Just remember that the higher the temperature, the faster your pork will be done! Be sure to keep an eye on
How long to cook pork tenderloin in oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit?
The best cooking time for pork tenderloin in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit is about 20 to 25 minutes per pound. This should produce juicy and flavorful pork that isn’t dried out or overcooked, so be sure to check on your meat every few minutes after it has been in the oven for 15-20 minutes. Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure that your pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit before consuming.
Ingredients
– 1 pork tenderloin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil or butter (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Pat the tenderloin dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. If desired, rub olive oil or butter all over the outside of the pork for extra flavor.
4. Place your prepared pork on a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with foil. Make sure that it is centered in the center of the rack and not too close to either edge so that it cooks evenly throughout.
5. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes per pound, making sure that you check its internal temperature with a meat thermometer every few minutes after it has been in the oven for 15-20 minutes.
6. When the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit, remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
7. Enjoy your perfectly cooked pork tenderloin!
Check if the pork tenderloin is cooked through
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check if your pork tenderloin is cooked through. Once it has been in the oven for 15-20 minutes, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin and check that it has reached an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit before consuming. This will ensure that you have a juicy and flavorful piece of pork that isn’t overcooked or dried out.
Tips and tricks for perfectly cooked pork tenderloin
To get the most flavor from your pork tenderloin, season it generously with salt and pepper before placing it in the oven.
You can also add herbs or spices for extra flavor—garlic powder and oregano are great options.
Additionally, make sure to coat your pork tenderloin with a thin layer of oil or cooking spray before baking to prevent it from drying out.
Finally, always let your cooked pork rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing it into it; this will help ensure that all the delicious juices stay locked inside!
Results
The best cooking times for pork tenderloin in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit is about 20 to 25 minutes per pound.
To achieve juicy, flavorful pork that isn’t dried out or overcooked, make sure to season your pork generously with salt and pepper before baking, coat it with a thin layer of oil or cooking spray for added moisture, and always use a meat thermometer to ensure that your pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit before consuming.
Finally, always let your finished pork rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing it and serving!
Store the Leftover
Transform your leftover pork tenderloin into a succulent meal with just a few steps. Let the meat cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container in the refrigerator for maximum freshness. Delicious pork meals can be stored safely up to three days!
Keep pork tenderloin from drying out
To keep your pork tenderloin from drying out, it’s best to season it with salt and pepper before baking.
Additionally, rub a thin layer of oil or cooking sprays all over the outside of the meat for added moisture.
Finally, always use a meat thermometer to check that your pork has reached an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit before consuming.
What to Serve with Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a crisp salad to round out the meal.
You can also make sandwiches using any leftover pork; top them off with your favorite condiments and enjoy an easy lunch or dinner!
Reheat Leftover pork tenderloin
Leftover pork tenderloin can be easily reheated in the oven, microwave, or stovetop. To reheat it in the oven, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10 minutes, or until it’s heated through. You can also slice your leftover pork into smaller pieces before heating it up; this will help keep it from drying out.
To reheat the pork in the microwave, simply place slices of meat onto a plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm but not piping hot. Finally, to heat up small amounts of pork on the stovetop, add a tablespoon of oil to a skillet and cook the slices over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can Pork Tenderloin Be A Little Pink On The Inside
It’s important to always check that your pork tenderloin has reached an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit before consuming. Even if the outside of the meat looks sufficiently cooked, there could still be pink on the inside.
Undercooked pork can carry harmful bacteria, so it’s important to take all necessary precautions when cooking and serving pork.
If you have any doubts about how done your pork is, use a thermometer to ensure that it has reached a safe temperature before eating.
Difference Between Pork Loin and Pork Tenderloin
Pork loin and pork tenderloin are often confused for one another, but there is a key difference between the two. Pork loin is a larger cut of meat that comes from the back of the pig, so it tends to be tougher than pork tenderloin, which comes from the abdominal muscle of the pig and is much more tender in texture.
In addition, pork loin requires longer cooking times and lower temperatures than pork tenderloin when being cooked in an oven.
Grill Pork Tenderloin
Grilling your pork tenderloin is a great way to get a delicious, smoky flavor. To do so, preheat a gas grill over medium heat or light a charcoal fire and let it burn until the coals turn grey. Rub your desired seasonings into pork, then lightly brush each side with oil before placing it on the grill.
Grill on each side for 7-8 minutes and use a meat thermometer to check the inside temperature of your pork (it should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit). Let your finished pork rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing into it.
Wood-Fired Oven Pork Tenderloin
Cooking pork tenderloin in a wood-fired oven is an excellent way to create a unique flavor. To do so, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare the pork with desired seasonings. Place it on an oiled baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until its internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Once finished, let the pork rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition of Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is a lean and nutrient-packed cut of meat that’s low in fat, high in protein, and full of essential vitamins and minerals. It’s an excellent source of B vitamins, thiamine, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, selenium and potassium. Pork tenderloin is also naturally very low in sodium which makes it an ideal choice for those on a heart-healthy diet.
FAQ:
Q: How many minutes per pound for pork tenderloin?
A: The cooking time for pork tenderloin will depend on how large of a piece you’re cooking and how hot your oven is. Generally, at 375 degrees Fahrenheit, it should take about 25-30 minutes per pound to cook the meat through.
Q: Is it safe to eat pork that’s still slightly pink?
A: No, it is not safe to eat pork that is still slightly pink in the middle. Pork should always be cooked until its internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit or higher before consuming. Using a thermometer is the best way to ensure your pork has been properly cooked.
Q: Do you cook a pork tenderloin covered or uncovered?
A: For the best results, it’s best to cook your pork tenderloin uncovered. Doing so allows the meat to brown and crisp up in the oven. You can also tent the meat with foil if you’d like to prevent it from drying out too much during cooking.
Q: Should I flip my pork tenderloin in the oven?
A: Yes, you should flip your pork tenderloin halfway through the cooking process to ensure that both sides of the meat cook evenly. It’s best to use tongs or a fork for flipping so as not to puncture the meat.
Q: How do I make sure my pork tenderloin is tender?
A: To ensure that your pork tenderloin is tender and juicy, it’s best to cook it at a lower temperature for an extended time. Cooking it in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes per pound should do the trick. Additionally, letting the pork rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing will help keep the juices inside.
Q: Can I cook a pork tenderloin at 200 degrees?
A: Yes, you can cook a pork tenderloin at 200 degrees Fahrenheit, however it will take much longer than if you were to cook it at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure that the meat is cooked through and safe to eat, use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of your pork before consuming it (it should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit).
Q: Should pork tenderloin be cooked fast or slow?
A: Pork tenderloin should be cooked slowly at a lower temperature for the best results. Cooking it in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes per pound will help ensure that your pork is cooked through and tender.
Overall, cooking pork tenderloin in an oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit takes about 25-30 minutes per pound to cook the meat through and reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Additionally, flipping the meat halfway through cooking and letting it rest for 5 minutes before slicing can help ensure that your pork remains tender and juicy. When properly cooked, pork tenderloin is a lean and nutrient-packed cut of meat with plenty of essential vitamins and minerals. Manage how long to cook your pork tenderloin by using a thermometer and you’ll be sure to enjoy a delicious meal.
Conclusion:
Cooking pork tenderloin in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit is a quick and easy way to achieve flavorful, juicy meat. To get the best results, season your pork generously before baking, coat it with oil or cooking spray for added moisture, and use a meat thermometer to make sure your pork has reached an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
Finally, always let your cooked pork rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing it. With these simple tips and tricks in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy perfectly cooked pork tenderloin every time!
