These classic flavors are quick and easy to grill and are always a crowd favorite. Pork tenderloin is one of our favorite cuts because it's budget-friendly and cooks very quickly. Tenderloin itself is naturally tender and juicy, making it an easy entry point for grilling beginners. Even experienced backyard grillmasters love tenderloin as a quick and easy option that's always delicious. With just a few minutes of prep, this recipe will become a staple for your backyard grilling meals.
Since you're already on the grill, add some to complete your meal Roasted Vegetables, Lemon garlic clovesor even fried potatoes. If you really aim to impress, add Fried lemon juice On the menu!
Why our recipe?
- A simple Dijon rub with minimal seasoning means this recipe only requires 5 minutes of prep.
- 15 minutes (or less!) grill time means dinner is on the table faster.
- Tenderloins are tough to dry out, making them perfect for even beginners on the grill.
This cut is like a pork filet minion. When I grill pork tenderloin, I like to buy a four-pack and make two groups of different flavors for a delicious combination. You'll love how easy they are to make and how good they go with any party.
Material notes
- Pork Tenderloin: This recipe can easily be scaled to accommodate multiple tenderloins.
- Dijon Mustard: It helps act as a binder for the seasoning. Its acidity acts as a great balance to the salt and pepper. You can use smooth or whole grain dijon for this recipe.
- Italian seasoning: Check out our recipe for homemade Italian seasoning.
Pork Tenderloin vs. Pork Loin
Pork tenderloin A small, thin strip of meat that comes from the spine area. It is always sold boneless and weighs only 1 to 1 1/2 pounds. Pork tenderloin is the most tender cut of pork. It is best suited for quick cooking using high heat.
Pork is away A large, lean piece of meat cut from the back area. It is best suited for cooking over medium heat or slow-roasting in the oven.
Pork tenderloin and pork loin cannot be used interchangeably.
During grilling
Pork tenderloins are about 1 to 1/2 pounds and take about 15 minutes to cook at a high heat of about 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Pork needs to be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Pink is correct!
Could the pork tenderloin be a little pink? Yes! And it should actually be a pale pink color in the middle. The USDA recommends that pork be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. At 145 degrees F, you'll have the juiciest pork tenderloin that's pale pink in the center, but still completely safe to eat. Even overcooked tenderloin can still have a pink tinge. Remember, pork is red meat like beef.
Storage and reheating instructions
Keep in fridge Up to five days in an airtight container.
Reheat Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-low heat for best reheating results.