Are you tired of using foil to cook your pork tenderloin in the oven? Do you want to try a new method that will give you a delicious and juicy result without the hassle of wrapping it up?
Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the steps of cooking pork tenderloin in the oven without foil. From marinating to seasoning, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. So, let’s get started and learn how to cook pork tenderloin in oven without foil like a pro!
How To Cook Pork Tenderloin In Oven Without Foil?
To cook pork tenderloin in the oven without foil, you need to follow a few simple steps. First, preheat your oven to 420 degrees Fahrenheit and cover a large baking pan with foil. Then, chop and mash garlic cloves with sea salt to create a chunky paste.
Next, whisk together olive oil, mustard, lemon juice, fresh thyme, black pepper, and the garlic paste. Place the pork tenderloin on the foiled pan and spread the marinade all over it until every inch is generously covered.
Tent the pan with a piece of aluminum foil on top, making sure it stays loose at the top without touching the meat. Bake for 25 minutes and check the temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reads at least 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
Slowly and carefully remove the top foil, wearing oven mitts as the steam is very hot. Pour all the juices and bits into a pan or bowl. You can reduce them to make gravy or reserve them to spoon over the roast before serving.
Set your oven to broil and bake the uncovered tenderloin for 10 more minutes (5 minutes per side) until it’s golden brown. Take it out of the oven and leave it on a cutting board with a piece of foil loosely placed on top, leaving the sides open. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes to prevent the juices from running and leaving the pork too dry.
Finally, transfer the roast to a serving platter and garnish it with lemon slices and fresh herbs if desired. Slice into 1-inch pieces or thicker and serve with gravy on the side or spoon over the reserved juices.
Marinating The Pork Tenderloin
Marinating the pork tenderloin is an important step to infuse it with flavor and make it tender. There are different marinade recipes you can use, but most of them include a combination of oil, acid, herbs, and spices.
One recipe suggests whisking together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Trim any silver skin off the pork tenderloin and place it in a large zip-top plastic bag. Pour the marinade into the bag with the pork and seal. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour and up to 12 hours or overnight.
Another recipe combines lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, mustard, and salt in a resealable plastic bag. Add the pork tenderloins and turn to coat with the marinade. Squeeze out the air and seal the bag. Marinate the pork in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours but preferably overnight.
When marinating the pork tenderloin, make sure to use a non-reactive container or bag such as glass or plastic. Avoid using metal containers as they can react with the acid in the marinade and affect the taste of the meat.
Also, be mindful of marinating time as leaving the meat in the marinade for too long can make it mushy and affect its texture. A good rule of thumb is to marinate for at least 30 minutes but no more than 12 hours.
Once you’re ready to cook the pork tenderloin, remove it from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. You can reserve some of the marinade to use as a sauce later on. Pat the meat dry with paper towels before cooking it to prevent excess moisture from steaming it instead of searing it.
Preparing The Oven For Cooking
Before you start cooking your pork tenderloin in the oven, it’s important to properly prepare your oven. Here are some tips to ensure that your oven is ready and the pork tenderloin cooks evenly:
1. Preheat your oven: It’s important to preheat your oven to the correct temperature before cooking. This ensures that the pork tenderloin cooks evenly and thoroughly. Preheat your oven to 420 degrees Fahrenheit as per the recipe.
2. Use a large baking pan: Use a large baking pan that is big enough to hold the pork tenderloin without overcrowding it. This will allow for even cooking and browning.
3. Cover the pan with foil: Covering the pan with foil will help to keep the pork tenderloin moist and prevent it from drying out during cooking.
4. Tent the foil: When covering the pan with foil, make sure to tent it loosely at the top so that it doesn’t touch the pork tenderloin. This will allow for proper air circulation and prevent steam from building up inside the pan.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your oven is properly prepared for cooking pork tenderloin without foil. This will result in a delicious and perfectly cooked roast that you can enjoy with your family and friends.
Seasoning The Pork Tenderloin
To ensure your pork tenderloin is well seasoned throughout, it’s important to create a rub using various spices and herbs. In a separate bowl, mix together garlic powder, oregano, cumin, coriander, thyme, and salt with a fork until all the ingredients are well combined. This mixture will be used as a rub to season the pork.
Sprinkle the rub over the tenderloin with a dry hand, then rub the pork with the seasoning over both sides of the meat, pressing gently so the seasoning adheres well to the tenderloin. Make sure to cover every inch of the pork with the rub for maximum flavor.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and heat it up. Add minced garlic and sauté it for 1 minute while stirring. Put the tenderloin in the pan and cook for about 10 minutes, searing each side using tongs to turn the meat. This will help lock in moisture and create a crispy outer layer.
Transfer the meat to a roasting pan and bake it for 20 minutes at 420 degrees Fahrenheit. After baking, let it rest on a cutting board or in the baking dish for 5-10 minutes before slicing into 1 inch pieces. The result will be a juicy and flavorful pork tenderloin that’s perfect for any occasion.
Cooking The Pork Tenderloin In The Oven
Cooking the pork tenderloin in the oven is a simple and straightforward process. The first step is to preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating up, prepare the pork by trimming any excess fat and piercing it all over with a fork.
Next, rub the pork with oil and seasonings. You can use a pre-made spice blend or create your own by combining salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any other herbs or spices you like. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork, making sure to cover every inch.
Place the seasoned pork on a greased baking sheet or in a casserole dish. Squeeze citrus juices over the top of the pork for added flavor. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s important to use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature of the pork. This ensures that it’s cooked through but not overdone, which can cause it to become tough and dry. Once the pork reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
If you want to add extra flavor and moisture to your pork tenderloin, you can baste it with melted butter or a marinade during cooking. Simply brush the butter or marinade over the pork every 10-15 minutes while it’s baking.
Checking For Doneness And Resting The Meat
Checking for doneness is crucial when cooking pork tenderloin in the oven. To ensure that the meat is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ideal temperature for pork tenderloin is 145°F (62.8°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat to get an accurate reading.
If you don’t have a meat thermometer, there are other ways to check for doneness. One way is to use a sharp knife and cut into the thickest part of the meat. If the juices run clear, then the pork tenderloin is cooked through. Another way is to touch the meat with your finger. If it feels firm to the touch, then it’s done.
After checking for doneness, it’s important to let the pork tenderloin rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful. Cover the pork tenderloin loosely with foil or a lid while it rests.
By following these simple steps, you can cook a delicious and juicy pork tenderloin in the oven without foil. Remember to check for doneness and let it rest before serving. Enjoy!
Serving And Enjoying Your Delicious Pork Tenderloin
Once your pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy! One of the best things about pork tenderloin is that it pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some great options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
When serving your pork tenderloin, it’s important to slice it against the grain. This will ensure that each piece is tender and easy to chew. You can slice the pork into 1-inch pieces or thicker, depending on your preference.
If you want to elevate your meal even further, consider making a flavorful sauce or gravy to accompany your pork tenderloin. You can use the reserved juices from the pan to make a delicious gravy or reduce them down to create a flavorful sauce.
When it comes to enjoying your pork tenderloin, take your time and savor each bite. The meat should be juicy and flavorful, with a crispy golden brown exterior. Pair it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.