If you’re on the hunt for a dish that marries simplicity, bold flavor, and a hint of sophistication, this Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe checks all the boxes. It’s a true culinary gem, delivering juicy, tender pork with a smoky char that’s sure to impress both your family and guests. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, prepping a quick weeknight meal, or planning a special celebration, this recipe has you covered.
What sets this Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe apart is its perfect balance of ease and flavor. The marinade is the secret weapon here—think savory spices, a touch of sweetness, and a dash of tanginess that seeps into every bite, ensuring the pork is bursting with deliciousness. As the tenderloin grills, it transforms into a mouthwatering masterpiece with those irresistible grill marks and a caramelized exterior.
Even if you’re new to grilling, don’t sweat it! This recipe includes straightforward steps to help you achieve tenderloin perfection every time. We’ll cover everything—from selecting the best pork tenderloin, preparing the marinade, mastering grilling techniques, and even sharing tips for pairing it with sides that will elevate the meal. Get ready to add this Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe to your go-to collection, because it’s about to become your household favorite!
Ingredients you will need for the Grilled Pork Tenderloin:
Ingredients:
- 1-pound pork tenderloin
- 1 lemon
- 2-3 tbsp. soy sauce
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 2/3 tsp. smoked paprika
- ½ tsp. chili flakes
- ½ tsp. black pepper
- 1 tsp. coriander
- salt to taste
Tools:
Follow the recipe below to create this super cute Grilled Pork Tenderloin!
Instructions for the Grilled Pork Tenderloin:
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
Start by carefully inspecting your pork tenderloin. Look for any silvery, tough membrane (called the silver skin) running along the surface. This membrane doesn’t break down during cooking, so removing it is key for achieving a tender result.
To remove it, grab a sharp knife, like a boning or paring knife, and gently slide the blade just under the edge of the silver skin. Hold the loose flap of the membrane with your other hand and angle the blade slightly upward (toward the silver skin, not the meat) to avoid wasting the tender meat. Gently work the knife along the membrane until it is fully separated. Trim off any large, visible pieces of fat as well.
Once the tenderloin is cleaned up, pat it dry with paper towels. This ensures the seasoning sticks well to the surface. Sprinkle the meat generously with salt on all sides, rubbing it in with your hands to help it penetrate the surface. This step begins the seasoning process and enhances the natural flavors of the pork, setting the stage for a perfectly seasoned grilled tenderloin.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, and the juice of one fresh lemon (approximately 2–3 tablespoons). The olive oil will keep the pork tender and juicy, the soy sauce adds a savory depth of flavor, and the lemon juice brightens the marinade while also helping to tenderize the meat.
Next, add your spices to the bowl. A classic combination might include:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 minced fresh garlic cloves for extra zing)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a hint of smoky warmth)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey (for a subtle sweetness that balances the salt and acidity).
Whisk the ingredients together until well combined, forming a thick, fragrant marinade. Make sure the spices are evenly distributed and there are no lumps. This flavorful mixture is what will infuse the pork tenderloin with bold, savory notes and help create that beautiful caramelized crust on the grill.
Step 3: Marinate the Pork Tenderloin
Take your cleaned and salted pork tenderloin and place it into the bowl of marinade, ensuring there’s enough space to fully submerge or generously coat the meat. Use your hands (or a pair of tongs if you prefer) to turn the tenderloin, making sure every inch of the surface is covered in the marinade. Massage the marinade gently into the meat for a minute or two to help the flavors penetrate.
Once the tenderloin is thoroughly coated, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, or transfer the pork and marinade into a resealable plastic bag. If using a bag, press out as much air as possible before sealing it, which helps the marinade cling more closely to the meat.
Now, let time do its magic. If you’re in a hurry, leave the pork to marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes, flipping it halfway through to ensure even absorption. For more intense flavor, place it in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours, or up to overnight for maximum tenderness and taste. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature for about 20–30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning ahead, you can freeze the pork tenderloin in the marinade for a future meal. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to grill!
Step 4: Grill the Pork Tenderloin to Perfection
Start by preheating your grill pan over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to get nice and hot—this ensures those beautiful charred streaks form quickly. While the pan heats up, lightly grease the grates with olive oil to prevent the pork from sticking. You can use a silicone brush or a folded paper towel dipped in oil and carefully rubbed onto the grates using tongs.
Remove the pork tenderloin from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Use a paper towel to gently blot the tenderloin, removing most of the surface marinade. This prevents the liquid from steaming the meat instead of allowing it to sear.
Lay the tenderloin diagonally on the grill pan in a slight semicircle (to maximize contact with the hot grates) and let it cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes. During this time, you’ll notice the smoky aroma as charred streaks begin to appear. These grill marks aren’t just pretty—they’re full of flavor.
After the first set of marks forms, turn the tenderloin slightly to the side without flipping it so the grill grates create a crosshatch or grid pattern. Let it cook for an additional 3 minutes on this side.
Once the first side is done, flip the tenderloin over to the opposite side and repeat the process: cook for 3–4 minutes until charred streaks appear, then adjust the angle to create the grid pattern, cooking for another 3 minutes.
The total grilling time will vary based on the thickness of your tenderloin, but the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the tenderloin. Once done, transfer the tenderloin to a plate and cover it loosely with foil to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This rest time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your pork tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Finish Cooking and Rest the Tenderloin
Once you’ve achieved those beautiful grill marks, cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil to trap the heat. This creates a controlled cooking environment, allowing the tenderloin to cook evenly without drying out. Reduce the heat to medium or medium-low to gently bring the pork up to temperature without over-searing the outside.
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin, being careful not to touch the grill pan or bones (if any). Cook the pork until the thermometer reads 158°F (70°C). This is slightly above the USDA’s recommended temperature of 145°F (63°C) for pork because residual heat during resting will bring the tenderloin to the ideal temperature.
Once the meat reaches 158°F, turn off the heat and leave the tenderloin in the skillet, still covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial—it allows the internal juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is tender and flavorful. During this time, the pork will also finish cooking, reaching its final target temperature of about 160°F (71°C) without becoming overdone.
When ready to serve, transfer the tenderloin to a cutting board, slice it into medallions about ½ inch thick, and savor the juicy, smoky flavors of your perfectly grilled pork tenderloin. Enjoy!
To serve, slice the fresh cucumber and lemon. Chop the red onion and whisk it with the juice of the lemon. Arrange the vegetables on a plate, add the pickled hot peppers and spring onions. Cut the grilled tenderloin into portions and place on a plate, drizzling with the juice from the grilling process. Enjoy!
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Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients
- 1 pound porktenderloin
- 1 lemon
- 2-3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2/3 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp coriander
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Clean the pork tenderloin from the membranes and excess fat. Rub the meat with salt.
- In a bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce and lemon juice. Pour in the spices and stir in the marinade.
- Place the meat in the marinade. Coat it on all sides and leave it to marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
- Heat a grill pan and grease the grates with olive oil. Blot the tenderloin from the marinade and lay it out on the grill pan in a semicircle on the diagonal. Roast for about 3-4 minutes until charred streaks appear. Turn the mirin meat, without flipping, so that the skillet strips form a grid. Cook for 3 minutes. Turn tenderloin over and cook similarly until a grid pattern appears.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and reduce the heat. Check the temperature with a meat probe at the thickest part of the tenderloin. When it reaches 158°F turnoff the heat and leave the meat under the foil for another 5 minutes.
What to Pair with the Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe
When serving your Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe, the right pairings can elevate the meal from delicious to unforgettable. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive feast, here are some tasty ideas to complement the smoky, savory flavors of the tenderloin:
Sides
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions roasted with olive oil and herbs pairs beautifully with the tenderloin’s smoky char.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery with a hint of garlic, mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the grilled pork.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Keep the grill theme going! Brush corn with butter, sprinkle with a touch of chili powder or Parmesan, and grill until charred and sweet.
- Quinoa Salad: Light and refreshing, a quinoa salad with chopped parsley, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette is a healthy, bright side.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory, smoky pork, and they add a nice crunch.
Sauces
- Honey Mustard Sauce: A blend of tangy and sweet flavors that complement the pork’s richness.
- Chimichurri: This fresh, herbaceous Argentine sauce made with parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil adds a zingy, vibrant twist.
- Apple Chutney: A slightly sweet, slightly tangy chutney with apples, cinnamon, and raisins provides a delightful contrast.
Salads
- Arugula Salad: Toss fresh arugula with shaved Parmesan, lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of salt for a light, peppery salad.
- Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds crunch and balances the smokiness of the pork.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze make a great side.
Breads
- Grilled Garlic Bread: A loaf of crusty bread brushed with garlic butter and grilled until golden brown is perfect for sopping up juices.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are a classic, crowd-pleasing addition.
Drinks
- White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or a fruity Riesling complements the pork’s smoky flavors.
- Beer: A light lager or an amber ale works well to balance the dish’s richness.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: Non-alcoholic and refreshing, these drinks pair wonderfully with grilled dishes.
Desserts
- Grilled Peaches: Top warm grilled peaches with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet and smoky dessert.
- Apple Crisp: A warm, spiced apple crisp ties in beautifully with the pork’s savory-sweet vibe.
- Berry Parfait: Layer fresh berries with whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a light and refreshing finale.
With these pairings, your Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe will be the star of a balanced and memorable meal.
Why Should You Make the Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe?
There are plenty of reasons to make the Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe, and once you try it, it’s bound to become one of your go-to meals. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your table:
1. Delicious Flavor
This recipe delivers bold, smoky, and savory flavors with every bite. The marinade infuses the pork with a perfect balance of seasoning, and grilling adds that irresistible charred crust that enhances its natural richness.
2. Healthy and Lean
Pork tenderloin is one of the leanest cuts of meat, making it a healthy protein option. It’s low in fat but still incredibly tender and juicy when cooked right.
3. Quick and Easy
Despite its impressive taste, this recipe is simple to prepare. The marinade requires basic pantry staples, and the grilling process takes just a few minutes per side. You can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table with minimal fuss.
4. Versatile for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a quick family dinner, or impressing guests at a special event, this dish fits the bill. It’s casual enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for celebrations.
5. Customizable
This recipe is incredibly flexible—you can adjust the marinade, spices, or grilling style to suit your personal taste. Prefer something spicier? Add cayenne pepper. Craving a tangy twist? Add more lemon or lime juice.
6. Great for Meal Prep
Grilled pork tenderloin is just as good the next day. Slice it thin for sandwiches, salads, or wraps, or serve it cold with a side of fruit and cheese for a quick, satisfying lunch.
7. Crowd-Pleaser
It’s a dish that appeals to almost everyone, even picky eaters. The juicy, tender pork with its flavorful marinade is sure to win over even the toughest critics.
Making this Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe is more than just cooking a meal—it’s creating a dining experience that’s flavorful, satisfying, and versatile. Give it a try and watch it become a family favorite!
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