Grilled Pork Tenderloin with BBQ Glaze is a juicy, flavorful summer grilling favorite that delivers tender pork with a sweet, smoky barbecue coating. This easy recipe is perfect for backyard cookouts, family dinners, and weekend gatherings. The pork is seasoned simply, grilled until perfectly juicy, and finished with a sticky BBQ glaze that caramelizes beautifully over the heat. Serve it sliced with your favorite summer sides for a meal everyone will love.
Grilled Pork Tenderloin with BBQ Glaze
Ingredients
Method
- Trim any excess silver skin from the pork tenderloins.
- Pat the pork dry with paper towels and brush with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the pork.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small saucepan, combine barbecue sauce, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Cook over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until combined.
- Place the pork tenderloins on the grill and cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning every few minutes for even cooking.
- Brush the pork generously with BBQ glaze during the last 5 minutes of grilling.
- Continue grilling until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Slice into medallions and drizzle with additional BBQ glaze before serving.
Notes
- Pork tenderloin cooks quickly, so avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
- Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect doneness.
- Apply the glaze near the end of cooking to prevent burning due to the sugar content.
- Allowing the pork to rest before slicing helps retain its juices.
Variations
- Use spicy barbecue sauce for extra heat.
- Add cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend.
- Substitute maple syrup for honey.
- Try a bourbon-infused barbecue sauce.
- Add a touch of chipotle powder for smoky flavor.
- Finish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro.
- Use peach barbecue sauce for a sweet summer twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with grilled corn on the cob.
- Pair with baked beans.
- Add a side of creamy coleslaw.
- Serve alongside potato salad.
- Pair with macaroni salad for summer cookouts.
- Enjoy with roasted vegetables.
- Serve with garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
Tips
- Marinate the pork overnight for even more flavor.
- Bring the pork to room temperature before grilling.
- Keep extra glaze for serving at the table.
- Slice against the grain for the most tender bites.
- Do not skip the resting period after grilling.
- Double the recipe when feeding a crowd.
Prep Time / Cook Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings
Serves: 6 people
Nutritional Info (Approx.)
Calories: 360 per serving
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 16g
Sodium: 720mg
FAQs
Can I make Grilled Pork Tenderloin with BBQ Glaze ahead of time?
Yes. You can season the pork and prepare the glaze up to a day in advance. Store everything separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This actually allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and can result in an even tastier final dish.
How do I know when pork tenderloin is fully cooked?
The safest and most accurate method is using an instant-read thermometer. Pork tenderloin is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. After removing it from the grill, allow it to rest for several minutes before slicing. This ensures juicy and tender results.
Can I cook this recipe in the oven instead of on the grill?
Absolutely. Roast the seasoned pork tenderloin in a 400°F oven for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, depending on thickness. Brush with the BBQ glaze during the last few minutes of cooking and broil briefly for a caramelized finish.
What is the difference between pork tenderloin and pork loin?
Pork tenderloin is a smaller, leaner, and more tender cut that cooks quickly. Pork loin is larger and takes significantly longer to cook. This recipe is specifically designed for pork tenderloin, so cooking times will vary if using a different cut.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a little extra barbecue sauce to help maintain moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze grilled pork tenderloin?
Yes. Once cooled, place sliced pork in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving. Adding a little extra BBQ sauce when reheating helps keep the meat moist.
Conclusion
Grilled Pork Tenderloin with BBQ Glaze is an easy and impressive grilling recipe that’s packed with smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. The tender pork, caramelized barbecue glaze, and simple preparation make it perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to summer barbecues. Once you try this juicy grilled pork recipe, it may become a permanent favorite in your grilling rotation.
