Are you planning to cook pork tenderloins for your next family dinner or gathering? If so, you may be wondering how long to cook them to achieve that perfect, juicy and tender texture.
With so many different recipes and cooking methods out there, it can be hard to know where to start. But fear not! In this article, we’ll explore some of the best tips and tricks for cooking two pork tenderloins to perfection.
From oven temperatures to cooking times, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
How Long To Cook 2 Pork Tenderloins?
When it comes to cooking two pork tenderloins, there are a few factors to consider. The size of your tenderloins, the cooking method you choose, and your desired level of doneness will all impact the cook time.
One popular method for cooking pork tenderloin is to sear it on the stove and then finish it in the oven. To do this, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Once the skillet is hot, add your seasoned pork tenderloins and sear them on all sides until browned. Then, transfer the tenderloins to a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes, until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
If you prefer to bake your pork tenderloins entirely in the oven, preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly spray a casserole dish or baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Rub your seasoned pork tenderloins with olive oil and place them in the baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
It’s important to note that the exact cook time will depend on the size of your pork tenderloins. For an average size cut, you can expect to bake them for about 25 minutes. However, it’s always best to use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature and ensure that they are fully cooked.
Choosing The Right Cooking Method
Choosing the right cooking method for your pork tenderloins can make a big difference in the final result. Roasting in the oven or grilling are both great options, but the cook time will vary depending on the method you choose.
If you prefer to roast your pork tenderloins in the oven, preheat your oven to 375°F. Season your pork tenderloins with salt and pepper, and heat some oil in a large cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Brown the pork on all sides, then place the pan in the oven and roast until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. The cook time will depend on the size of your tenderloins, but it’s generally about 20 minutes per pound.
Grilling is another great option for cooking pork tenderloin. Heat your grill to medium-high heat and season your pork tenderloins with salt and pepper. Grill for about 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
No matter which method you choose, it’s important to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure that your pork tenderloins are fully cooked. Remember to let them rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist and flavorful.
Preparing The Pork Tenderloins
Before cooking your two pork tenderloins, it’s important to properly prepare them. Start by removing them from their packaging and placing them on a cutting board with the silver skin facing up. With a sharp boning knife, carefully remove the silver skin by sliding the knife under one end of the silver skin and pulling up as you slide the blade between the meat and the skin. Be sure to discard the silver skin and any excess fat.
Next, season your pork tenderloins with salt and pepper, or your desired herbs and spices. If you’re using a sear-and-bake method, heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil and sear the pork tenderloins on all sides until browned. Then, transfer them to a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes.
If you prefer to bake your pork tenderloins entirely in the oven, preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly spray a casserole dish or baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Rub your seasoned pork tenderloins with olive oil and place them in the baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
No matter which cooking method you choose, it’s important to use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of your pork tenderloins. Once they reach 145°F, remove them from the oven and let them rest for at least five minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute within the meat and ensure that it stays moist and flavorful.
Setting The Oven Temperature
The oven temperature you choose will also impact the cook time for your pork tenderloins. As mentioned above, a high temperature of 425°F is recommended for searing and finishing in the oven, which will cook your pork tenderloins quickly and prevent them from drying out. However, if you prefer to bake your pork tenderloins entirely in the oven, a temperature of 400°F is recommended.
If you’re cooking two pork tenderloins at once, it’s important to adjust the cook time accordingly. You may need to increase the cook time slightly to ensure that both tenderloins are fully cooked. It’s also recommended to rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cook time to ensure even cooking.
When determining the appropriate oven temperature and cook time for your pork tenderloins, it’s important to consider your desired level of doneness. For a medium-cooked pork tenderloin with a slightly pink center, an internal temperature of 145°F is recommended. However, if you prefer your pork well-done without being dry, you can increase the internal temperature to 160°F by extending the cook time by 2-3 minutes per pound.
Cooking Time For Two Pork Tenderloins
If you’re cooking two pork tenderloins at the same time, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to add a few extra minutes to the cook time to account for the increased volume of meat.
For instance, if you’re searing your pork tenderloins on the stove and finishing them in the oven, you may need to bake them for an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked. Similarly, if you’re baking your pork tenderloins entirely in the oven, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cook time.
It’s important to keep an eye on the internal temperature of your pork tenderloins as they cook. For two average size cuts, you can expect to bake them for about 30-35 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. However, if your tenderloins are larger or smaller than average, you’ll need to adjust the cook time accordingly.
Remember to let your pork tenderloins rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensure that it stays moist and flavorful. With a little bit of patience and attention to detail, you can cook two delicious and perfectly cooked pork tenderloins every time.
Checking For Doneness
Checking for doneness is crucial when cooking pork tenderloin. You want to make sure that the meat is fully cooked, but not overcooked and dry. One way to check for doneness is by using an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin, making sure not to touch bone or fat. The internal temperature should read 145°F.
If you don’t have an instant-read thermometer, you can also use a long knife or skewer to check for doneness. When you puncture the cooking pork, gauge the resistance it builds. If the skewer or knife goes in and out easily and the center has tender meat, it’s an indicator of doneness. If the knife or skewer is resistant, cook the pork for a little extra time.
It’s important to note that the cooking time will vary depending on the size of your pork tenderloins and the cooking method you choose. For two average-sized tenderloins cooked using the sear and bake method, you can expect a total cook time of about 20-25 minutes in the oven after searing. However, it’s always best to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure that your pork tenderloins are fully cooked and safe to eat.
Letting The Pork Rest
After cooking your pork tenderloins, it’s important to let them rest before slicing into them. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures that your pork is tender and juicy.
The ideal resting time for pork tenderloins is around 5-10 minutes. However, you can let them rest for up to 15 minutes if needed. During this time, you can cover the pork with foil to keep it warm.
It’s important to note that the internal temperature of the pork will continue to rise as it rests. You should remove the pork from the oven or skillet when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F and let it rest until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
If you are cooking two pork tenderloins, you can let them rest together on a cutting board or serving platter. Make sure to use a sharp knife to slice the pork against the grain for maximum tenderness.
