Pork tenderloin is a lean and delicious cut of meat that can be cooked to perfection in the oven. With its mild flavor and tender texture, it’s a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook pork tenderloin in the oven at 375°F, with a step-by-step guide that covers everything from preparation to serving.
Understanding Pork Tenderloin
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at pork tenderloin. This cut of meat comes from the loin section of the pig, which is located on the back of the animal. It’s a long, narrow piece of meat that’s typically around 1-2 pounds in weight. Pork tenderloin is known for its lean flavor and tender texture, making it a popular choice for many home cooks.
Choosing the Right Pork Tenderloin
When selecting a pork tenderloin, look for a piece of meat that’s firm to the touch and has a uniform color. Avoid any tenderloins with visible fat or connective tissue, as these can make the meat tougher and less flavorful. You can usually find pork tenderloin in the meat department of your local grocery store, and it may be labeled as “pork tenderloin” or “pork filet.”
Preparing the Pork Tenderloin
Before cooking the pork tenderloin, you’ll need to prepare it by trimming any excess fat and seasoning it with your desired spices. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing the pork tenderloin:
Trimming Excess Fat
To trim excess fat from the pork tenderloin, you’ll need a sharp knife and a cutting board. Place the tenderloin on the cutting board and locate any visible fat or connective tissue. Use your knife to carefully trim away this excess fat, taking care not to cut too deeply into the meat.
Seasoning the Pork Tenderloin
Once you’ve trimmed the excess fat from the pork tenderloin, it’s time to season it with your desired spices. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Simply sprinkle the seasonings evenly over the surface of the tenderloin, making sure to coat it thoroughly.
Cooking the Pork Tenderloin in the Oven
Now that the pork tenderloin is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the oven. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking the pork tenderloin at 375°F:
Preheating the Oven
To cook the pork tenderloin, you’ll need to preheat your oven to 375°F. This should take around 10-15 minutes, depending on your oven’s temperature control.
Placing the Pork Tenderloin in the Oven
Once the oven is preheated, place the pork tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. You can also use a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet, if desired. Place the tenderloin in the center of the baking sheet, leaving a little space around it to allow for even cooking.
Cooking the Pork Tenderloin
To cook the pork tenderloin, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, inserting it into the thickest part of the tenderloin.
Internal Temperature Guide
Here’s a guide to the internal temperature of the pork tenderloin:
| Internal Temperature | Level of Doneness |
| — | — |
| 145°F | Medium-rare |
| 150°F | Medium |
| 155°F | Medium-well |
| 160°F | Well-done |
Letting the Pork Tenderloin Rest
Once the pork tenderloin is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax, making it more tender and flavorful.
Why Resting is Important
Resting the pork tenderloin is an important step in the cooking process, as it allows the meat to relax and the juices to redistribute. This makes the meat more tender and flavorful, and it also helps to prevent it from becoming dry and tough.
Serving the Pork Tenderloin
Once the pork tenderloin has rested, it’s time to slice it and serve. You can slice the tenderloin thinly against the grain, using a sharp knife and a cutting board. Serve the pork tenderloin with your desired sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad.
Pork Tenderloin Recipe Ideas
Here are a few recipe ideas for pork tenderloin:
- Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Vegetables: Slice the pork tenderloin and serve it with a variety of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes.
- Pork Tenderloin with Mashed Potatoes: Slice the pork tenderloin and serve it with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy.
Conclusion
Cooking pork tenderloin in the oven at 375°F is a simple and delicious way to prepare this lean and flavorful cut of meat. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a mouth-watering pork tenderloin that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to trim excess fat, season the meat with your desired spices, and cook it to the right internal temperature. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be a pro at cooking pork tenderloin in no time!
What is the ideal internal temperature for oven-roasted pork tenderloin?
The ideal internal temperature for oven-roasted pork tenderloin is 145°F (63°C). It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches a safe internal temperature. This temperature ensures that the pork is cooked through and reduces the risk of foodborne illness.
It’s also important to note that the internal temperature of the pork will continue to rise slightly after it’s removed from the oven. This is known as carryover cooking. So, it’s best to remove the pork from the oven when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) to 142°F (61°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How do I prevent the pork tenderloin from drying out in the oven?
To prevent the pork tenderloin from drying out in the oven, it’s essential to not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches a safe internal temperature, and avoid overcooking it. You can also brush the pork with a marinade or rub before cooking to add flavor and moisture.
Another way to prevent the pork from drying out is to tent it with foil during cooking. This helps to retain moisture and promote even cooking. You can also baste the pork with pan juices or melted fat to add extra moisture and flavor.
Can I cook the pork tenderloin at a higher temperature to reduce cooking time?
While it’s possible to cook the pork tenderloin at a higher temperature to reduce cooking time, it’s not recommended. Cooking the pork at too high a temperature can result in a dry, overcooked exterior and an undercooked interior.
Cooking the pork at 375°F (190°C) allows for even cooking and helps to prevent the outside from burning before the inside is fully cooked. If you’re short on time, you can try cooking the pork at 400°F (200°C) for a shorter amount of time, but keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking.
How do I achieve a crispy crust on the pork tenderloin?
To achieve a crispy crust on the pork tenderloin, it’s essential to score the fat layer before cooking. Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in the fat layer, being careful not to cut too deeply into the meat. This helps to create a crispy, caramelized crust on the pork.
You can also rub the pork with a spice blend or marinade before cooking to add extra flavor and texture to the crust. During the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) to help crisp up the crust.
Can I cook the pork tenderloin in a convection oven?
Yes, you can cook the pork tenderloin in a convection oven. Convection cooking uses a fan to circulate hot air around the food, resulting in faster cooking times and a crisper crust.
To cook the pork tenderloin in a convection oven, reduce the cooking temperature by 25°F (15°C) and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Keep an eye on the pork to prevent overcooking, as convection cooking can cook the pork more quickly than traditional oven cooking.
How do I let the pork tenderloin rest after cooking?
Letting the pork tenderloin rest after cooking is essential to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax. To let the pork rest, remove it from the oven and place it on a cutting board or plate. Tent the pork with foil to keep it warm and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
During this time, the juices will redistribute, and the meat will relax, making it easier to slice and serve. Don’t skip this step, as it can make a big difference in the tenderness and flavor of the pork.
Can I serve the pork tenderloin with a sauce or gravy?
Yes, you can serve the pork tenderloin with a sauce or gravy. In fact, a sauce or gravy can add extra flavor and moisture to the pork. You can serve the pork with a variety of sauces, such as a fruit chutney, BBQ sauce, or a pan gravy made from the cooking juices.
To make a pan gravy, deglaze the roasting pan with a little liquid, such as wine or broth, and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Then, whisk in a little flour or cornstarch to thicken the gravy, and season with salt and pepper to taste.