Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin

Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, this baked pork tenderloin recipe is a dinner hero! With a simple seasoning rub and quick oven time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

1–1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin

Pat the pork tenderloin dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the pork tenderloin.

Step 3: Sear the Tenderloin

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.

Step 4: Bake the Pork Tenderloin

Transfer the seared tenderloin to the prepared baking sheet.
Optional: Brush the tenderloin with honey or maple syrup for a slightly sweet glaze.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Slice into medallions and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Notes

Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked perfectly. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender and juicy.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Substitutions: Swap thyme for rosemary or Italian seasoning for a flavor variation.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 250
Protein: 29g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Sodium: 320mg