Are you looking to cook the perfect pork tenderloin for your next meal? Cooking pork tenderloin can be tricky, especially when it comes to determining the right cooking time and temperature.
But fear not, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be discussing how long to cook a 1.5 lb pork tenderloin to achieve that juicy and tender texture.
From oven temperatures to resting times, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to cook the perfect pork tenderloin every time.
So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
How Long To Cook 1.5 Lb Pork Tenderloin?
When it comes to cooking a 1.5 lb pork tenderloin, the key is to ensure that it is cooked all the way through while still maintaining its juicy and tender texture. The recommended oven temperature for cooking pork tenderloin is 450°F.
For a 1.5 lb pork tenderloin, we recommend cooking it for approximately 25-30 minutes. However, it’s important to note that the exact cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the meat.
To ensure that your pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection, we recommend using an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, making sure not to touch any bones. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for a medium cook.
Once your pork tenderloin has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
Preparing The Pork Tenderloin
Before cooking your 1.5 lb pork tenderloin, it’s important to properly prepare it. Begin by seasoning the pork with salt and pepper, and adding any desired chopped fresh herbs. Heat oil in a frying pan and brown the pork evenly on all sides. Once browned, transfer the pork to a baking sheet.
Preheat your oven to 450°F and place the baking sheet with the pork tenderloin in the oven. Cook for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat reads 145°F.
After removing the pork tenderloin from the oven, allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will ensure that the juices are evenly distributed throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your 1.5 lb pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection and remains juicy and tender.
Choosing The Right Oven Temperature
Choosing the right oven temperature is crucial when cooking a 1.5 lb pork tenderloin. As mentioned earlier, the recommended oven temperature for cooking pork tenderloin is 450°F. This high temperature helps to sear the outside of the meat, creating a delicious crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
However, it’s important to note that the exact oven temperature may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the meat. If you’re unsure about your oven’s temperature accuracy, you may want to consider investing in an oven thermometer. This will help you ensure that your oven is at the correct temperature before cooking your pork tenderloin.
It’s also worth noting that some recipes may call for a lower oven temperature, such as 325°F or 400°F. While these temperatures can work for pork tenderloin, they will result in a longer cooking time. It’s important to keep an eye on the internal temperature of the meat to ensure that it reaches 145°F for a medium cook.
Cooking Time For A 1.5 Lb Pork Tenderloin
For a 1.5 lb pork tenderloin, the cooking time may range from 25-30 minutes at 450°F. However, it’s important to note that the exact cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the meat.
To ensure that your pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection, we recommend using an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, making sure not to touch any bones. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for a medium cook.
If you prefer your pork tenderloin to be well-done, you can cook it for a few more minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. However, be careful not to overcook it as it may result in dry and tough meat.
Once your pork tenderloin has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
Checking For Doneness
To check for doneness, use an instant-read thermometer to measure the internal temperature of the pork tenderloin. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, making sure not to touch any bones. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for a medium cook.
If the temperature is not quite there yet, continue cooking the pork tenderloin in 3-minute increments until it reaches the desired temperature. It’s important not to overcook the pork tenderloin, as this will result in a dry and tough texture.
Once the pork tenderloin has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
By following these guidelines and checking for doneness with an instant-read thermometer, you can ensure that your 1.5 lb pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection every time.
Resting And Serving The Pork Tenderloin
After removing the pork tenderloin from the oven, it’s important to let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. During this time, cover the meat loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the surface from cooling off too fast. Make sure the meat is on a cutting board with a “gravy groove” or a rimmed baking sheet pan to catch any juices.
Resting the pork tenderloin allows the meat fibers to relax and reabsorb any juices that may have been squeezed out during cooking. If you cut into the meat too soon, the juices will run out and you’ll be left with dry pork.
Once the resting period is over, carve the pork tenderloin into thick slices and serve with your favorite pan sauce. To make a quick pan sauce, after removing the pork from the fry pan or skillet, place the pan over a burner and add 1/4 cup white wine to deglaze. Once the wine is down to a few tablespoons, add two tablespoons of cold butter and remove the pan from heat. Stir the butter in until it melts then stir and serve over pork slices.
It’s important to note that if you plan to hold brisket or pork butt for several hours in an empty cooler, you will want to wrap these tightly with foil. See Holding, Storing & Reheating Barbecued Meats for more details.
