Are you planning on cooking a 1.3 lb pork tenderloin but not sure how long to cook it for?
Look no further! Cooking pork tenderloin to the perfect temperature can be tricky, but with the right techniques and timing, you can achieve a juicy and flavorful result every time.
In this article, we will explore various methods and cooking times to help you cook a delicious 1.3 lb pork tenderloin that will impress your family and friends.
So, let’s get started!
How Long To Cook A 1.3 Lb Pork Tenderloin?
When it comes to cooking a 1.3 lb pork tenderloin, there are a few factors to consider such as the cooking method, oven temperature, and desired level of doneness.
One popular method is to roast the pork tenderloin in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly spray a casserole dish or baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Rub the pork tenderloin with olive oil and sprinkle with your desired seasoning mix. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. If you prefer your pork to be well-done, cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Another method is to sear the pork tenderloin on the stovetop and finish it in the oven. Heat a large cast-iron or oven-safe skillet on the middle rack in the oven at 450°F for 10-20 minutes. Season the pork with your desired spices and sear it in the hot skillet for 10 minutes. Flip the pork and reduce the oven temperature to 400°F. Roast for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
If you prefer to use a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the pork tenderloin before cooking. For a medium cook, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F. For a well-done cook, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F.
Preparation And Seasoning
Before cooking your 1.3 lb pork tenderloin, it’s important to properly season it for optimal flavor. One option is to season the pork with salt and pepper, and add chopped fresh herbs if desired. This can be done before or after searing the pork on the stovetop.
If you prefer to roast your pork tenderloin in the oven, you can create a seasoning mix by combining spices and brown sugar in a small bowl. Rub the pork tenderloin with olive oil and sprinkle the seasoning mix on all sides of the meat to ensure even coverage.
For a high-temperature roast, preheat your oven to 450°F and cook the pork tenderloin for no more than 10-15 minutes. This will encourage extra browning on the outside while ensuring that the interior temperature reaches 140°F. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, as pork tenderloin can be tricky to cook by feel due to its low fat content.
Once your pork tenderloin has reached an internal temperature of 145°F, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. During this time, the meat will continue cooking another 5 degrees or so, and the juices will redistribute for optimal tenderness and flavor.
Oven Method
The oven method is a great way to cook a 1.3 lb pork tenderloin. To begin, preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly spray a casserole dish or baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Rub the pork tenderloin with olive oil and sprinkle with your desired seasoning mix.
Place the pork tenderloin in the baking dish and make sure to cover it on all sides with the seasoning mix. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. If you prefer your pork to be well-done, cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
It’s important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your pork tenderloin. To ensure that your pork is cooked to the desired level of doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Once your pork tenderloin has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures that it stays moist and flavorful.
Grill Method
Grilling is another popular method for cooking pork tenderloin. To cook a 1.3 lb pork tenderloin on the grill, start by preheating the grill to a surface temperature of 450°F to 500°F, which is medium-high on most grills. Clean and oil the grates well to prevent sticking.
Trim the tenderloin of any excess fat and silver skin. Season with salt and black pepper or your desired seasonings. If you want to add extra flavor, you can marinate the pork tenderloin up to one day in advance with a maple-mustard marinade that takes seconds to stir together.
Place the seasoned tenderloin on the grill and let it sizzle with the lid shut for 7 minutes. Flip it over and let it grill for an additional 6 minutes with the lid shut. Now turn off the heat, and leave the lid closed for 4-5 minutes. Remove the tenderloin from heat when its internal temperature reaches 140°F, which will rise to 145°F during resting time.
It’s important to note that cooking time may vary depending on the weight and exact surface temperature of your grill. To ensure that your pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection, use an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center of the tenderloin to check its internal temperature.
Once your pork tenderloin is done cooking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 7-8 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the juices to reabsorb and redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy meal.
Slow Cooker Method
Another popular method for cooking a 1.3 lb pork tenderloin is using a slow cooker. This method is great for those who want to set it and forget it, allowing the pork to cook slowly and become incredibly tender.
To begin, season the pork tenderloin with your desired spices, such as salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sear the pork for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown.
Next, mix together chicken broth, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and garlic in a small bowl. Place the seared pork tenderloin in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it. Cut the pork tenderloin in half if needed to fit into your slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
Once the pork is cooked through and tender, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm. Pour the liquid from the slow cooker into a pot and heat over medium heat to bring it to a simmer.
Mix cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water and add it to the pot to thicken the sauce. Cook for 1 minute or until the sauce has just thickened. Add butter to the pot and stir until melted. Slice or shred your pork tenderloin and pour the sauce over the top. Sprinkle with parsley and serve.
It’s important to note that since pork tenderloins cook quickly, it’s recommended to cook them on low in the slow cooker instead of high to avoid drying out the meat. Additionally, it’s crucial to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the pork reaches at least 145°F before serving.
By following this slow cooker method, you can enjoy a delicious and tender pork tenderloin without any fuss or hassle.
Instant Pot Method
The Instant Pot is another popular method for cooking a 1.3 lb pork tenderloin. First, set your Instant Pot to Saute mode and add a teaspoon of olive oil. Once the Instant Pot reads HOT, add the pork tenderloin and brown it on all sides for a couple of minutes each. Then, press Cancel and remove the pork from the pot.
Next, pour in 1/4 cup of root beer and deglaze the bottom of the pot to ensure that all pieces stuck on the bottom of the liner have been loosened. Place the pork back into the Instant Pot and secure the lid in the locked and sealed position. Pressure Cook/Manual on High for 1 minute, followed by a Natural Pressure Release for at least 10 minutes. Finally, quick release any remaining pressure and remove the meat from the pot.
It is important to let the pork tenderloin rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. While it is resting, you can make a delicious sauce by removing 1/4 cup of the liquid from the bottom of the pot and whisking in corn starch to make a slurry. Add the slurry back to the pot and place it on Saute mode to reduce it to a thick sauce. Drizzle this sauce over your pork tenderloin before serving.
As a general rule, you can cook a frozen pork tenderloin for 30 minutes per pound on high pressure, while fresh or thawed meat should be cooked for 20 minutes per pound on high pressure. For a 1.3 lb pork tenderloin that is about 1.5 inches thick, cook it on Manual High Pressure for 3 minutes with Natural Release for 2-3 minutes. Then check the internal temperature of the meat, which should be at least 145°F. If it is less than this, place the meat back in the Instant Pot, close the lid and let it sit inside to cook from the remaining heat for 5 more minutes.
Remember that it is better to undercook your pork tenderloin at first than to overcook it and make it dry and rubbery. By following these steps, you can ensure that your 1.3 lb pork tenderloin is perfectly cooked and delicious every time you make it in your Instant Pot.
Checking For Doneness
Checking for doneness is an important step when cooking pork tenderloin. The best way to determine if the pork is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the pork tenderloin, making sure not to touch any bones, as this can give an inaccurate reading.
For a medium cook, the internal temperature should read 145°F. For a well-done cook, the internal temperature should read 160°F. It’s important to note that the USDA recently changed their recommendation for cooking pork from 160°F to 145°F, as they found that this temperature is sufficient to kill any harmful bacteria.
Once the pork reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven or stovetop and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can also check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the pork tenderloin. If the juices run clear and there is no pinkness in the center, then it is fully cooked. However, this method can be less reliable and may result in overcooking or undercooking the pork.
