Name: Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American cuisine
Ingredients: 1 ¼ lbs pork tenderloin, silver skin removed; 2 tablespoon olive oil; 1 ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon brown sugar

Juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor-that's what you get with this Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin! The savory spice rub caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving you beautifully browned, melt-in-your-mouth pork with minimal effort.

I adore this recipe for its simplicity and stunning results every single time. It's a total weeknight hero-so quick, so foolproof, and so darn delicious that even picky eaters ask for seconds.

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or need a satisfying family meal ready in under an hour, this pork tenderloin always shines. It's inspired by my childhood Sunday roasts, but with a laid-back, modern twist for today's busy cooks.

Baked Pork Tenderloin sliced with herbs on a serving platter

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Juicy pork every time, thanks to an easy foolproof method
Ready in only 40 minutes start to finish
Simple pantry spices-no fancy ingredients needed
Perfect for family dinners or impressive enough for guests

Key Ingredients for Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Pork Tenderloin

The star of the show! Pork tenderloin is naturally lean but incredibly tender when cooked properly. Look for a piece that's about one to one-and-a-half pounds. Remove the silver skin before baking for best texture. If you can't find tenderloin, pork loin will work-but it requires a longer bake time and turns out less tender.

Olive Oil

A generous drizzle of olive oil helps the spice rub cling to the pork and promotes a beautiful, golden sear in the oven. You can swap in avocado oil or vegetable oil if you prefer.

Smoked Paprika

This adds incredible smoky depth and rich color to the crust. If you don't have smoked paprika, sweet or regular paprika works, but the flavor won't be quite as bold.

Garlic Powder

Delivers savory, garlicky punch without the risk of burning that comes from fresh garlic in a high-heat oven. You can sub half as much onion powder for a milder flavor.

Brown Sugar

A touch of brown sugar balances the spices and helps caramelize the outside for a sweet-savory crust. Maple syrup or honey can substitute in a pinch-just brush it on lightly.

Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin cooking process

Instructions for Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep the Pork Tenderloin

Pat your pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and trim off any silver skin for best results. This step ensures maximum flavor and a tender bite.

Mix Together the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, thyme, and brown sugar into a thick paste. This flavorful rub is what transforms simple pork into something spectacular.

Season and Rub

Place the trimmed pork on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment. Rub the spice mixture all over the tenderloin, making sure every nook and cranny is coated.

Bake

Roast in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until an internal thermometer reads 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part. This ensures juicy, perfectly cooked pork!

Rest and Slice

Let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This redistributes the juices, making every slice tender and succulent.

Recipe Variations

Add Some Heat

Love a little spice? Add ½ teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the rub for a spicy kick. Serve with a drizzle of hot honey for even more flavor punch.

Herb Lover's Twist

Swap out the dried thyme for a blend of rosemary and oregano, or sprinkle freshly chopped herbs over the sliced pork for a fresh, aromatic finish.

Gluten-Free Friendly

This recipe is naturally gluten free, but if you're sensitive be sure that your spices and brown sugar have no hidden gluten-containing additives.

Citrus Glaze

For a bright, zesty flavor, brush the baked pork with a mix of orange or lemon juice and a touch of honey during the last 5 minutes in the oven.

Maple-Mustard Version

Mix 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup into the rub for sweet, tangy depth that pairs beautifully with the pork.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin sliced over creamy mashed potatoes, alongside roasted seasonal vegetables, or with a crisp green salad for balance. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh thyme to add a pop of color and fresh flavor. For extra flair, a side of applesauce or a simple pan gravy makes it even more special!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the pork and warm gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Microwave reheating works too-cover and heat in short bursts. For longer storage, freeze sliced pork in freezer bags for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin (FAQ)

Q: Can I use pork loin instead of pork tenderloin?

A: You can, but pork loin is larger and requires a longer baking time. It's best to use pork tenderloin for quick, juicy results.

Q: How do I know when the pork is done?

A: Use an instant-read thermometer-the pork is ready when it reaches 145°F in the thickest part. Let it rest before slicing for best juiciness.

Q: Should I sear the pork before baking?

A: Not for this recipe! The high oven temperature caramelizes the spices beautifully, so you don't need to sear first.

Let's make dinner something to look forward to with this Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin! I can't wait for you to taste the juicy, flavorful pork-leave a comment or rating to let me know how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!

★★★★★ 4.70 from 173 ratings