Are you looking to add some variety to your weeknight dinners?
Grilled pork tenderloin is a delicious and easy option that can be ready in just 15 minutes! But how long should you grill it per pound?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll break down the cooking times and temperatures needed to achieve the perfect juicy and flavorful pork tenderloin.
Whether you’re a grilling pro or a beginner, these tips will help you impress your family and friends with a mouth-watering meal.
So, fire up the grill and let’s get started!
How Long To Grill A Pork Tenderloin Per Pound?
When it comes to grilling a pork tenderloin, the cooking time will depend on the weight of the meat. As a general rule, you should grill a pork tenderloin for about 15 minutes per pound.
For example, if you have a 1-pound pork tenderloin, you should grill it for approximately 15 minutes. If you have a 2-pound pork tenderloin, you should grill it for approximately 30 minutes.
It’s important to note that these times are just estimates and can vary depending on your grill and the exact temperature of the grill surface. To ensure that your pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection, always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Preparing The Pork Tenderloin
Before grilling your pork tenderloin, it’s important to properly prepare it. Start by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the meat. This will help prevent flare-ups on the grill and ensure even cooking.
Next, you can choose to marinate your pork tenderloin for added flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices can do wonders for the taste of your pork. You can also use a store-bought marinade or dry rub if you prefer.
Once your pork tenderloin is trimmed and marinated (if desired), it’s time to preheat your grill. For indirect grilling, heat one side of the grill to medium-high heat and leave the other side unlit. For direct grilling, heat the entire grill to medium-high heat.
When the grill is hot, place the pork tenderloin on the grill and sear each side for 2-3 minutes to create a nice crust. Then, move the tenderloin to the cooler side of the grill (or lower the heat if using direct grilling) and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Once the pork tenderloin has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for optimal flavor and tenderness.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your grilled pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection every time.
Seasoning The Pork Tenderloin
Seasoning the pork tenderloin is an essential step in achieving a delicious and flavorful grilled pork tenderloin. There are many different seasoning options, but a simple dry rub is a great place to start.
To make a basic dry rub, combine salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and any other seasonings you prefer. Rub the mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to cover all sides evenly.
For those who prefer a sweeter flavor, a maple-mustard marinade can be a great option. This marinade can be made by combining maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simply coat the pork tenderloin in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) before grilling.
No matter what seasoning option you choose, it’s important to let the pork tenderloin sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This will help the meat cook more evenly and prevent it from drying out.
Preheating The Grill
Before you start grilling your pork tenderloin, it’s important to preheat your grill. This will ensure that the grill surface is hot enough to properly cook the meat and prevent it from sticking to the grates.
To preheat your grill, clean the grates and oil them lightly. Then, turn on your grill to a high heat setting and let it preheat for about 10-15 minutes. The surface temperature should be around 450°F.
Once your grill is preheated, you can begin grilling your pork tenderloin. Remember to rotate the meat every 4-5 minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it reaches a minimum of 145°F before removing it from the grill.
By following these simple steps and using a meat thermometer, you can ensure that your pork tenderloin is grilled to perfection every time.
Cooking Time And Temperature
To determine the exact cooking time and temperature for your pork tenderloin, you need to know the safe internal temperature for pork. According to the USDA, pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F with a 3-minute rest time. However, it’s important to take the pork off the grill before it reaches this temperature because the internal temperature will continue to rise by 5-10°F after removing it from the heat.
For a medium-rare pork tenderloin, which is recommended for optimal tenderness and juiciness, you should grill it until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. This will take about 22-27 minutes for a 1-pound tenderloin and up to 29+ minutes for a larger tenderloin.
To achieve this temperature, preheat your grill to about 400°F and place the seasoned meat on the grill over indirect heat. Cover the grill and cook for the estimated time, turning once halfway through grilling time. Always use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of your meat, as meat color is not a reliable indicator of doneness.
Once your pork tenderloin has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and loosely cover it with foil. Let the meat rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing it across the grain into 1/2-inch slices. This will allow the juices to reabsorb and redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender meat.
Checking For Doneness
To check if your pork tenderloin is done, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The USDA recommends a safe internal temperature of 145°F for pork tenderloin with a 3-minute rest time. However, keep in mind that the internal temperature will continue to rise by 5-10 degrees after removing it from the heat.
To achieve a perfectly cooked pork tenderloin, remove it from the heat when its internal temperature reaches 140°F. Then, let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to reabsorb and redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.
Remember that relying on cooking time alone can be unreliable, as factors such as grill temperature and thickness of the meat can affect cooking time. Therefore, always use a meat thermometer to ensure that your pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection and safe to eat.
Resting And Serving The Pork Tenderloin
Once your pork tenderloin is cooked, it’s important to let it rest before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful final product.
To rest the pork tenderloin, remove it from the grill and place it on a cutting board. Tent the meat with foil and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will give you enough time to prepare any sides or sauces you plan to serve with the pork.
After resting, use a sharp knife to slice the pork tenderloin into medallions. Be sure to cut against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness. Serve the pork hot with your favorite sides or sauces.
Some popular side dishes to serve with grilled pork tenderloin include creamy mashed potatoes, baked mac and cheese, or a buttery dollop of grits. For a healthier option, try pairing it with a crunchy slaw, lemon-herb couscous, or a warm salad with wilted greens and bacon.
