Are you planning a summer barbecue and looking to impress your guests with perfectly grilled pork tenderloin?
One of the most important factors in achieving a juicy and flavorful result is getting the temperature just right. With so many conflicting recommendations out there, it can be hard to know what temperature to aim for.
But fear not! In this article, we’ll break down the various guidelines and provide you with all the information you need to grill your pork tenderloin to perfection.
So grab your apron and let’s get started!
What Temperature To Grill Pork Tenderloin?
The ideal temperature for grilling pork tenderloin is between 350 and 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the exterior of the meat is crispy and caramelized, while the inside remains juicy and tender.
To achieve this temperature, preheat your grill to medium heat. If you’re using a gas grill, set the burners to medium. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals have turned gray and then spread them out evenly.
Once your grill is heated, it’s time to cook the pork tenderloin. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the meat, but a good rule of thumb is to cook it for 15 to 20 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
To get that perfect mahogany coloring on your pork tenderloin, use zone cooking and flip it regularly. Start by searing the meat on high heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side. Then move it to a cooler part of the grill and continue cooking until it reaches the desired internal temperature.
Understanding Pork Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is a lean and tender cut of meat that comes from the muscle that runs along the backbone of the pig. It is a long, narrow, boneless cut of meat that is cylindrical in shape, narrowing into a tip at one end. Because these muscles are not primarily used by the pig for movement, the resulting meat is tender as well as lean.
To prepare pork tenderloin, it can be roasted whole or sliced into medallions. When roasted whole, trussing the tenderloin is recommended to shape and cook it evenly. Pork tenderloin also cooks well on a grill. As with most meats, cooking times will depend on your cooking method. Most authorities recommend that pork reach an internal cooking temperature between 145 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit prior to serving.
Various preparation methods call for the use of spice rubs, marinades, or fresh herbs to enhance the pork tenderloin’s flavor. Some people prefer spicy rubs made from dried chilies, cumin, and cayenne. Others will enjoy a marinade of salty teriyaki sauce or sweet fruit glazes. Many people are fond of fresh herbs like sage and rosemary as they roast nicely with the tenderloin.
It is important to note that pork tenderloin and other pork products are widely enjoyed throughout the world but are banned in certain cultures. Those who participate in a kashrut or kosher diet will not partake in pork, nor will those who follow Islam. Some Indian cultures ban the consumption of meat altogether. In the United States, certain school districts have also banned pork products.
Preparing Your Pork Tenderloin For The Grill
Before grilling your pork tenderloin, it’s important to prepare it properly. Start by trimming any excess fat and removing the silver skin, which is the smooth, shiny connective tissue on the surface of the meat. Use a sharp knife to remove the silver skin, pulling it up as you cut. A fillet knife works well for this task. Also, remove any visible fat as desired.
Once you’ve trimmed the pork tenderloin, you can choose to brine it for extra flavor and tenderness. To make a simple brine, mix 4 cups of water with 4 tablespoons of salt in a food-storage plastic bag. You can also add 2-4 tablespoons of sugar if desired. Place the pork tenderloin in the brine and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. After brining, remove the pork from the brine, rinse it under running water, and pat it dry.
Next, season the pork tenderloin with salt and black pepper or other seasonings of your choice. However, if you brined the meat, do not add salt as it has already been seasoned in the brine.
Preheat your grill to a surface temperature of 450° to 500° Fahrenheit or medium-high on most grills. Clean and oil the grates well to prevent sticking. Place the pork tenderloin over direct heat and close the lid. Rotate it one-third every 5 minutes until done to your liking. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. The cooking time will vary depending on the weight of the meat and the exact surface temperature of the grill.
When the pork tenderloin is a few degrees less than your desired final temperature, remove it from the grill and tent it lightly with foil for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures that it stays moist and flavorful.
If you don’t have a grill or prefer not to use one, you can also cook pork tenderloin in an air fryer or bake it in the oven with a smoky rub for a juicy and delicious meal.
Choosing The Right Temperature For Grilling Pork Tenderloin
When grilling pork tenderloin, it’s important to choose the right temperature to ensure that the meat is cooked to perfection. As mentioned earlier, the ideal temperature for grilling pork tenderloin is between 350 and 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
To achieve this temperature, you can use either a gas or charcoal grill. For a gas grill, set the burners to medium. For a charcoal grill, wait until the coals have turned gray and then spread them out evenly. It’s also a good idea to create zones on your grill by placing coals on one side and leaving the other side empty. This will allow you to sear the meat on high heat and then move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking.
When grilling pork tenderloin, it’s important to avoid cooking it at too high of a temperature. This can cause the exterior of the meat to burn while the inside remains undercooked. It’s also important to avoid cooking it at too low of a temperature, as this can result in tough and dry meat.
To ensure that your pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember that the meat will continue to cook for a few minutes after it’s removed from the grill, so it’s okay if it’s slightly undercooked when you take it off.
Monitoring The Internal Temperature Of Pork Tenderloin
To ensure that your pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection, it’s essential to monitor the internal temperature. The recommended safe temperature for cooking any cut of pork is 145°F or 63°C, and this applies to pork tenderloin as well.
To monitor the internal temperature of your pork tenderloin, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, making sure not to touch any bone or fat. Take the reading once the thermometer has stabilized, which usually takes a few seconds.
When grilling pork tenderloin, it’s important to remember that the meat will continue to cook even after it’s been removed from the heat source. Therefore, it’s best to remove the tenderloin from the grill when it reaches an internal temperature of 138-140°F and let it rest for about five minutes. During this time, the temperature will continue to rise by 3 to 5 degrees, and the tenderloin will reach the recommended safe temperature of 145°F.
By monitoring the internal temperature of your pork tenderloin, you can ensure that it’s safe to eat while also achieving a juicy and tender texture. So be sure to have an instant-read meat thermometer on hand when grilling pork tenderloin, and enjoy a delicious and safe meal!
Resting And Serving Your Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Once your pork tenderloin has reached the desired internal temperature, it’s important to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product.
To rest your pork tenderloin, remove it from the grill and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This will give you enough time to prepare any sides or sauces that you plan to serve with the meat.
When you’re ready to serve, slice the pork tenderloin across the grain into 1/2-inch slices. This will help to ensure that each slice is tender and easy to eat. If desired, you can serve your grilled pork tenderloin with a variety of sauces or condiments, such as mustard, horseradish, or barbecue sauce.
Grilled pork tenderloin is a versatile and delicious main dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re serving it as the centerpiece of a meal or incorporating it into salads or sandwiches, following these tips for grilling and resting your pork tenderloin will help you achieve perfect results every time.
Tips And Tricks For Perfectly Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Grilling pork tenderloin can be a bit tricky, but with these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly grilled, juicy meat every time.
1. Marinate the meat: Marinating your pork tenderloin for at least 30 minutes (2 hours is even better) can make a huge difference in flavor and tenderness. You can use any marinade you like, but adding fresh or dried herbs like rosemary and thyme can really enhance the flavor.
2. Trim the meat: Before grilling, make sure to trim any excess fat or connective tissue from the surface of the tenderloin. This will prevent it from becoming tough and chewy.
3. Season well: Rub the tenderloin with olive oil and your desired seasonings before grilling. If you’ve brined the meat, be careful not to add too much salt.
4. Use zone cooking: To get that perfect sear and caramelization on your pork tenderloin, start by searing it on high heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side. Then move it to a cooler part of the grill and continue cooking until it reaches the desired internal temperature.
5. Use an instant-read thermometer: To ensure that your pork tenderloin is cooked to perfection, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Let it rest: After removing the tenderloin from the grill, let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure that your meat is juicy and flavorful.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to grill a delicious and juicy pork tenderloin every time.
