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Juicy and tender easy baked pork tenderloin with a golden crust

Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin

A cozy and impressive weeknight dinner that's quick and easy, featuring juicy and flavorful pork tenderloin with simple seasoning.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin Usually 1 or 2 tenderloins depending on package.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Ingredients
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning Optional for additional flavor.
  • squeeze of lemon or a spoon of Dijon mustard For serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 425 F.
  2. Pat the pork dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick and improve browning.
Seasoning
  1. Rub the pork tenderloin with olive oil.
  2. Mix salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and any herbs you are using.
  3. Sprinkle the mixture all over the pork and rub it in with your hands.
Baking
  1. Place the seasoned pork on a sheet pan or in a baking dish.
  2. Bake for about 18 to 25 minutes, depending on thickness. Check the internal temperature; it should reach 145 F.
Resting and Serving
  1. Let the pork rest on a cutting board for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
  2. Slice into medallions and spoon any pan juices over the top. Optionally, add a squeeze of lemon.

Notes

If sticky bits remain on the pan after cooking, a quick soak should fix it. Leftovers are great for sandwiches or rice bowls.