Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Juicy, smoky, and incredibly tender pork tenderloin grilled to perfection. A simple marinade makes this lean cut of meat flavorful and moist, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Pork
- b.Using a sharp, thin knife, carefully slide it under the silver skin (the shiny, tough membrane) on the pork tenderloins and slice it away. Trim any large pieces of excess fat.
- c.Pat the tenderloins completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear on the grill.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Create the Marinade
- b.In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt until the mixture is fully emulsified.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Marinate the Tenderloin
- b.Place the prepared pork tenderloins in a large zip-top bag or a non-reactive shallow dish.
- c.Pour the marinade over the pork, turning the tenderloins to ensure they are evenly coated on all sides.
- d.Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Grill to Perfection
- b.Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature of 400-450°F (200-230°C). Clean the grates thoroughly and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
- c.Remove the pork from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.
- d.Place the tenderloins on the hot grill. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking and beautiful grill marks on all sides.
- e.The most reliable way to check for doneness is with an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the tenderloin; it is ready when it registers 145°F (63°C).
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest, Slice, and Serve
- b.Once cooked, transfer the pork tenderloins to a clean cutting board. Tent loosely with aluminum foil.
- c.Let the meat rest for 10 minutes. This critical step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is moist and tender.
- d.After resting, slice the tenderloin against the grain into ½-inch thick medallions. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1A meat thermometer is essential for perfectly cooked pork. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for a juicy, slightly pink center. Overcooking will result in dry meat.
- 2Don't skip trimming the silver skin; it's a tough membrane that won't break down during cooking and can make the meat chewy.
- 3Resting the meat is non-negotiable. It's the key to a juicy, flavorful result.
- 4Avoid marinating for more than 4 hours. The acidity in the marinade can start to break down the meat's texture, making it mushy.
- 5Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the tenderloin from sticking and tearing.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Marinade
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Herbaceous MarinadeHerbaceous Marinade
Substitute dried thyme with 2 tablespoons of fresh, chopped herbs like rosemary, parsley, and oregano.
Sweet & TangySweet & Tangy
Add 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar and replace the honey with brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
Oven Roasted MethodOven-Roasted Method
If you don't have a grill, sear the pork in a hot, oven-safe skillet on all sides, then transfer to a 400°F (200°C) oven and roast for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Powerhouse
Pork tenderloin is an excellent source of high-quality, lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting immune function, and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Rich in B Vitamins
This cut of pork is packed with B vitamins, particularly thiamin (B1), niacin (B3), and vitamin B6. These vitamins play a crucial role in converting food into energy and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Source of Essential Minerals
Pork tenderloin provides important minerals like selenium, a powerful antioxidant that supports thyroid health, and phosphorus, which is vital for strong bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Grilled Pork Tenderloin (approximately 170g) contains around 320-360 calories, depending on the exact fat content of the pork.