How Long To Cook Pork Tenderloin In Oven At 350
Introduction
Pork tenderloin, a lean and remarkably tender cut of meat, is a favorite among home cooks for its versatility and ease of preparation. Knowing how long to cook pork tenderloin in oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit is key to achieving a perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful main course. This method is popular because it’s relatively hands-off and delivers consistent results, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
1-1.5 lb Pork Tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin 2 tablespoons Olive Oil 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder 1 teaspoon Onion Powder 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary 1/2 teaspoon Paprika Salt and Black Pepper to taste (Optional) 1/4 cup Chicken Broth or White Wine (for added moisture) Substitutions: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Italian seasoning, chili powder, or even a pre-made spice rub can be used. Instead of olive oil, use avocado or vegetable oil.
Preparation Steps
Begin by patting the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a good sear. Next, trim any silver skin from the surface of the tenderloin using a sharp knife. Silver skin is a thin, tough membrane that doesn’t break down during cooking and can make the meat chewy. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork tenderloin, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Let the seasoned tenderloin rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat and helps it cook more evenly.
Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350F (175C). 2. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. 3. Sear the pork tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Searing helps to lock in the juices and adds flavor. 4. If using, pour chicken broth or white wine into the skillet around the tenderloin. 5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. 6. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the tenderloin registers 145F (63C). The exact time will vary depending on the thickness of the tenderloin and the accuracy of oven. 7. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the pork tenderloin to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. 8. Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Pork tenderloin cooked at 350F is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts. Mashed sweet potatoes or quinoa also make excellent accompaniments. A simple pan sauce made with the pan drippings, some Dijon mustard, and a splash of balsamic vinegar can elevate the dish. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary. For a more elegant presentation, arrange the sliced pork tenderloin on a platter with the sides and a drizzle of the pan sauce.
Tips and Common Mistakes
Don’t overcook the pork. Pork tenderloin is best served medium-rare to medium (145-160F). Overcooking will result in dry, tough meat. Using a meat thermometer is essential. Allow the pork to rest. Resting the pork after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Don’t skip the searing step. Searing the pork helps to lock in the juices and adds flavor. Trim the silver skin. Silver skin can make the meat chewy. If the pork tenderloin is browning too quickly in the oven, loosely tent it with foil.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Mastering how long to cook pork tenderloin in oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit unlocks a world of delicious and easy meals. The tender and flavorful result makes it a crowd-pleasing dish suitable for everyday dinners and special gatherings alike. Its simple preparation and adaptability to various flavor profiles make it a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Now that you know how to achieve perfectly cooked pork tenderloin, unleash your inner chef and enjoy the culinary possibilities! For more inspiring recipes and cooking tips, visit foodrecipestory.com.
