How to Cook Pork Tenderloin 5 Ways

If you know how to cook pork tenderloin, you’re only steps away from a fantastic meal. It’s an elegant dinner that can be made in such a simple and no-fuss way, making it perfect for company on a holiday or even on a workday.

We have 5 different cooking methods for how to cook pork tenderloin that can help you master this main dish with ease. No matter which one you choose, you’re about to whip up pure deliciousness for dinner any night of the week!

Perfect Pork Tenderloin Cooking Pointers

Any pork tenderloin recipe will always cook best when you allow it to come to room temperature first. Take it out of the fridge and let it warm up for about an hour.

When the tenderloin is done, set it on a cutting board and resist the urge to cut it. Pork tenderloin should rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Make sure your pork tenderloin is cooked to the right internal temperature. This should be 145°F, no matter which way you cook it.

Some of these ways to know how to cook pork tenderloin are very hands-off, making them the ideal choice for a busy night. You can then focus on making side dishes to pair with it for a fantastic dinner.

How to Cook Pork Tenderloin in the Oven

Cooking pork tenderloin in the oven is certainly the most common way to make it. You’ll want to prepare your pork tenderloin according to the recipe directions and preheat the oven to 400°F. You can then take your pork tenderloin and bake it for 25 to 35 minutes.

The outside should be brown and a little crispy, though use your meat thermometer to make sure it’s fully cooked through. While it cooks, you can whip up your sides such as baked potatoes, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, green beans, or your other favorites.

How to Cook Pork Tenderloin on a Grill

If you want to know how to cook pork tenderloin on a grill for an alfresco family meal or to share at a backyard barbecue, follow these steps!

Heat your grill on high until it is 450 to 500°F. Set up a direct heat side and an indirect heat side. Prepare your pork tenderloin with a brushing of oil and your seasonings. Put it on the direct heat side for 1 to 1 ½ minutes, rotating to grill all sides. Close the lid in between each turn of the sides.

Once that’s complete, put the tenderloin on the indirect heat side for 4 minutes each on only the 2 larger sides of the meat. Let it cook with the lid closed each time. Remove it from the heat to let it rest before slicing.

How to Cook Pork Tenderloin in a Crock Pot

One of the best ways to know how to cook pork tenderloin is this minimal effort method, thanks to your crock pot. You’ll put the pork tenderloin in and season it or top it with sauce as directed by the recipe. Put the lid on top and cook your pork tenderloin on low for 4 hours or high for 2 to 2 ½ hours until it has arrived at the proper internal temperature.

How to Cook Pork Tenderloin in an Instant Pot

The Instant Pot can help you learn how to cook pork tenderloin just right. Prepare it as directed, then heat your Instant Pot on the sauté function for 1 minute. Add oil and then put your pork in to sear it on each side.

Deglaze the interior with some broth while the pork is put to the side, then add it back in. Cook it on high with manual pressure for 3 minutes, then allow the Instant Pot to naturally release steam for 12 minutes. Setting it for any longer could result in dry and tough meat, so stick to this cook time. The Instant Pot is a great method for how to cook pork tenderloin if you also want to whip up gravy to serve along with the meat.

How to Cook Pork Tenderloin in an Air Fryer

Your air fryer can help you cook pork tenderloin. It’s easy too if you simply prepare it with your seasonings first.

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes, then put your pork tenderloin into the air fryer basket. Cook in this way for 20 to 22 minutes, then remove it to check doneness with your meat thermometer. You can then let it rest and carve it up for your family or other dinner guests.