How to Cook Pork Tenderloin

How to cook pork tenderloin in the oven- sharing the best temperature and important steps to ensure perfectly cooked, juicy pork!

Pork tenderloin is the cut we reach for time and time again. Why? Because it is quick to cook, and if you cook it right, it ends up perfectly tender and juicy.

With my Bachelor of Science and years of testing different roasts and techniques, I have learned that cooking pork tenderloin is all about temperature, timing, and rest.

This recipe uses 400°F because it sears the outside fast enough to seal in juices yet avoids overcooking. I’ve tested multiple temperatures and resting methods so that this approach reliably delivers tender, juicy pork instead of dry meat.

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Pork tenderloin sizes can vary, even within the same package. The most accurate way to know if your pork is ready is to check the internal temperature.

3 Tips For Perfect Baked Pork Tenderloin

For this recipe, I tested several different variables.

1. Temperature

Like my perfect baked chicken breast, I tested three temperatures to cook the pork tenderloin: 350°F, 400°F and 450°F. The pork cooked at 350°F was noticeably dryer than the hotter temps, possibly because it was in the oven for longer.

I can't honestly say I noticed a huge difference between 400 and 450, but I settled on 400°F because it is less prone to overcooking (because it can happen quickly towards the end of the cook time!).

• The takeaway: I recommend cooking your tenderloin at 400°F.

2. Time/Internal Temperature

It is recommended that you cook your tenderloin to an internal temperature of 145°F-160°F. The pork pictured in these photos was cooked to 145°F and is slightly pink in the middle. If you want it to be less pink, cook to 155°F!

Not all tenderloins are the same size, therefore, they will all require slightly different cook times. I recommend investing in a good digital thermometer so you can tell exactly when your pork tenderloin is cooked to 145°F.

3. Resting

Just like for perfect baked chicken breast, it is important to rest your pork tenderloin. If you cut into your tenderloin right after baking, all that delicious juice is going to run out everywhere and it will end up completely dry.

Resting allows the juices to settle evenly in the meat.

• cover with a baking dish and rest for 10 minutes before serving

How to cook pork tenderloin in the oven

There really are a million ways you can cook it, but I find simple is best.

1. brush tenderloin with olive oil
2. rub with spices (this rub has onion & garlic powder, salt, pepper, basil and oregano)
3. roast in the oven until it reaches 145°F-160°F
4. rest for 10 minutes (covered with a baking dish)
5. slice and enjoy with a squeeze of lemon juice

Pork Tenderloin vs Pork Loin Internal Temp

Using a meat thermometer, you can gauge exactly when your pork tenderloin is cooked to your preference! Remember, you will want to rest your tenderloin (covered with a baking dish), so the temperature will continue to rise about 5 degrees after cooking. I recommend removing the meat from heat and beginning the rest when the tenderloin registers about 5 degrees below your ideal final temperature.

Cooking Pork Tenderloin FAQs

How long do you cook pork tenderloin in oven at 400°F? It will really depend on the size and shape of your pork tenderloin, which is why I recommend investing in a good digital thermometer. Cook to an internal temperature of 145°F- 160°F.

Can I marinate the pork? Absolutely! I bet one of these 7 Chicken Marinades would go great with pork.

Can I cook it in the Instant Pot? YES. Check out this Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin with Soy Ginger Sauce.

Can I cook it in the slow cooker? Yes, HOWEVER beware that it will end up shredding. Personally I really enjoy the texture of sliced pork tenderloin and like to save the tougher cuts like pork shoulder for shredding. Check out my slow cooker pulled pork recipe here.

Is pork tenderloin healthy? Compared to many other cuts of pork, tenderloin is very lean and can be part of a balanced diet, especially when paired with vegetables and lighter sides.

What to Serve with Pork Tenderloin

• Skillet Sesame Snap Peas
• Cauliflower Rice or Perfect Fluffy Rice
• Instant Pot Mashed Cauliflower
• Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
• One of these 3 Broccolini Recipes
• Our Staple Kale Salad

More Recipes to Try

• Easy Zucchini Bread
• Carne Asada Tacos
• Crockpot Apple Butter Recipe
• Meal Prep Guide
• Slow Cooker Potatoes
• Pesto Chicken Sandwich
• Slow Cooker Chicken
• Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
• Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
• Asian Noodle Meal Prep