Grilled pork tenderloin is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply making dinner for your family, grilled pork tenderloin is sure to be a hit. The tender and juicy pork pairs perfectly with a variety of seasonings and marinades, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking.

Before you start cooking, it’s important to properly prepare the pork tenderloin. Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the meat, as this can result in a tough texture. Season the tenderloin with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. For added flavor, consider marinating the pork tenderloin in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs for several hours or overnight.

When it’s time to cook the pork tenderloin, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the tenderloin on the grill and cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

Grilled pork tenderloin is a versatile dish that can be served as the main course alongside vegetables and sides, or sliced and used in sandwiches and salads. The possibilities are endless, so get creative with your toppings and accompaniments!

Now that you know how to cook grilled pork tenderloin, it’s time to gather your ingredients and fire up the grill. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself to a delicious meal, grilled pork tenderloin is sure to impress. So grab your apron and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering dish that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

Prepare the pork tenderloin

Before grilling the pork tenderloin, it’s important to properly prepare it for cooking. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious and tender grilled pork tenderloin:

1. Trim the excess fat:

Start by inspecting the pork tenderloin and trimming off any excess fat or silver skin. This will help prevent flare-ups and ensure even cooking.

2. Season the tenderloin:

Next, season the pork tenderloin with your desired flavors. A simple seasoning of salt and pepper works well, or you can get creative with a marinade or dry rub. Be sure to coat the entire tenderloin evenly.

Tip: Let the seasoned pork tenderloin sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and promotes more even cooking.

3. Preheat the grill:

While the pork tenderloin is resting, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. It’s best to use a two-zone grilling setup with direct and indirect heat. This will allow you to sear the tenderloin over direct heat and then finish cooking it over indirect heat.

4. Oil the grill grates:

To prevent the pork tenderloin from sticking to the grill grates, lightly oil them before placing the meat on the grill. Use tongs and a folded piece of paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to grease the grates.

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Note: Safety first! Handle raw meat with caution and ensure proper food hygiene practices. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw pork and avoid cross-contamination with other ingredients or surfaces.

Trim excess fat

Before cooking the pork tenderloin, it is important to trim any excess fat from the meat. This helps to reduce the amount of grease and ensures a leaner and healthier dish.

To trim the excess fat, follow these steps:

  1. Place the pork tenderloin on a clean cutting board.
  2. Using a sharp knife, carefully trim the visible fat from the surface of the meat. Be sure to remove any large pieces of fat, as well as any silver skin.
  3. Trimming the fat helps to prevent flare-ups on the grill and allows the flavors of the marinade or seasoning to penetrate the meat more effectively.

After trimming the excess fat, pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This will help to ensure a better sear and prevent the meat from steaming while cooking.

Why trim excess fat?

Trimming excess fat not only improves the overall taste and texture of the grilled pork tenderloin, but it also reduces the calorie and cholesterol content of the dish. By removing the fat, you can enjoy a healthier and leaner protein option without sacrificing flavor.

Make use of the trimmed fat

If you have trimmed a considerable amount of fat from the pork tenderloin, you can save it for other culinary uses. Render the fat by cooking it slowly over low heat until it turns into liquid, then strain it to remove any impurities. The rendered fat can be used for frying or as a flavorful addition to other dishes.

Benefits of trimming excess fat
Benefits Explanation
Healthier dish Removing excess fat reduces the calorie and cholesterol content of the pork tenderloin.
Better taste and texture Trimming fat helps to prevent flare-ups and allows marinade or seasoning to penetrate the meat more effectively.
Additional uses The trimmed fat can be rendered and used for frying or as a flavorful addition to other dishes.

Marinate the tenderloin

Marinating the pork tenderloin is an important step to infuse it with flavor and ensure tenderness. Here’s how you can marinate the tenderloin:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pork tenderloin
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, olive oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and black pepper. Mix well until the brown sugar is dissolved.
  2. Place the pork tenderloin in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the tenderloin is fully coated with the marinade.
  3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and make it more tender.
  4. Once marinated, remove the pork tenderloin from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to take off the chill.
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Tip: When marinating meat, always do it in the refrigerator to prevent bacteria growth.

Now that the tenderloin is marinated and ready, you can move on to grilling it to perfection.

Preheat the grill

To cook a delicious grilled pork tenderloin, it’s essential to preheat the grill properly. Preheating ensures that the grill reaches the right temperature and allows for even cooking.

Start by cleaning the grill grates with a grill brush to remove any residue from previous use. Then, open the grill lid and turn the heat on high.

While the grill is preheating, season the pork tenderloin with your favorite spices and seasonings. To enhance the flavors, you can use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. For a smoky taste, you can also add a sprinkle of chili powder or cumin.

Once the grill has reached the desired temperature, use tongs to place the seasoned pork tenderloin on the hot grill grates. Close the lid and let it cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until grill marks appear.

After the initial sear, flip the pork tenderloin using the tongs and cook it for an additional 5-6 minutes with the lid closed. This ensures that both sides cook evenly and develop a delicious crust.

Check the internal temperature of the pork tenderloin using a meat thermometer. The pork is fully cooked when the thermometer reads 145°F (63°C). If it’s not yet cooked to the desired temperature, continue grilling with the lid closed while monitoring the temperature closely.

Once the pork tenderloin reaches the ideal temperature, carefully remove it from the grill using tongs and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes, which allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a moist and tender cooked pork tenderloin.

Slice the grilled pork tenderloin into thin, even pieces and serve immediately. You can pair it with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Enjoy your perfectly grilled pork tenderloin!

Choose the right temperature

When it comes to grilling pork tenderloin, choosing the right temperature is crucial. Cooking the tenderloin at the correct temperature ensures that it is cooked evenly and thoroughly without being overdone or undercooked.

The ideal temperature for grilling pork tenderloin is around 400°F (200°C). This high temperature allows for a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Using a meat thermometer is highly recommended to ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This is the safe internal temperature for pork according to the USDA guidelines.

Remember to preheat your grill before placing the pork tenderloin on it. This will help to achieve the desired sear on the meat.

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Pro tip: If you prefer your pork tenderloin to be more well done, you can cook it to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). However, be cautious not to overcook it as it may become dry.

Oil the grill grates

Before cooking the pork tenderloin, it is important to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and ensure easy flipping. This step helps create those beautiful grill marks and imparts a delicious smoky flavor to the meat.

To oil the grill grates, take a paper towel or a clean cloth and soak it in cooking oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil. Using long-handled tongs, carefully rub the oil-soaked towel onto the grates to create a thin, even coating.

Be sure to apply the oil to both sides of the grates, as well as the area surrounding the burners. This will help prevent any potential flare-ups and make sure that the entire cooking surface is well lubricated.

After oiling the grates, let the grill preheat for a few minutes to allow the oil to heat up and create a non-stick surface. You’re now ready to cook the grilled pork tenderloin!

FAQ

What is the best way to cook grilled pork tenderloin?

The best way to cook grilled pork tenderloin is to marinate it in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. Then, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the pork tenderloin for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Can I cook grilled pork tenderloin in the oven instead of on a grill?

Yes, you can cook grilled pork tenderloin in the oven instead of on a grill. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the marinated pork tenderloin on a baking sheet. Roast it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

What are some good marinade options for grilled pork tenderloin?

Some good marinade options for grilled pork tenderloin include a mixture of soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic; or a combination of balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, rosemary, and thyme. You can also experiment with different herbs, spices, and citrus flavors to create your own unique marinade.

Do I need to trim the silver skin off the pork tenderloin before grilling?

It is recommended to trim the silver skin off the pork tenderloin before grilling. The silver skin is tough and does not break down during cooking. To remove it, use a sharp knife and carefully slide it under the silver skin, then lift and cut it away in one piece. Trimming the silver skin will result in a more tender and flavorful grilled pork tenderloin.