Perfect Pork Tenderloin in the Oven

Ingredients

• 1 pork tenderloin, about 1 1/2 to 2 lbs
• Non-salt meat tenderizer, to taste
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground thyme
• 1 teaspoon BeSureToCook Seasoning Blend
• 1 teaspoon McCormick Grill Mates Zesty Herb Seasoning
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon hot pepper paste
• Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

1. Place the pork tenderloin in a large bowl.
2. Generously coat with non-salt meat tenderizer and rub it all over.
3. Season with onion powder, ground thyme, BeSureToCook Seasoning Blend, and Zesty Herb Seasoning.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the pork and rub evenly.
5. Add hot pepper paste and massage it into the tenderloin.
6. Place the pork on a lightly greased rack.
7. Refrigerate for about 3 hours to marinate.
8. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
9. Bake approximately 25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
10. Remove from the oven and allow the pork to rest before slicing.
11. Slice thinly and serve.

Why This Pork Tenderloin Works

The meat tenderizer helps soften the pork, while the olive oil and hot pepper paste help the seasonings stick to the outside. Thyme, onion powder, zesty herb seasoning, and BeSureToCook Seasoning Blend give the pork a savory, flavorful crust.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Do not skip the rest time. Resting helps keep the pork juicy.
• Use a meat thermometer. Pork tenderloin is ready at 145°F.
• Slice thin. Thin slices make the pork tenderloin easy to serve.
• Marinate for flavor. A few hours in the fridge helps the seasoning soak in.
• Do not overbake. Pork tenderloin can dry out if cooked too long.

What to Serve with Pork Tenderloin

• Mashed potatoes
• Rice pilaf
• Roasted vegetables
• Green beans
• Macaroni and cheese
• Side salad