Grilled Pork Tenderloin - Perfectly Cooked with Amazing Flavor

Nothing beats the flavor of tender, juicy pork cooked over a hot grill. Grilling is a quick and easy way to cook pork tenderloin so it comes out perfectly cooked, with a lightly charred exterior and moist interior every time. With just a few simple tricks, you can make restaurant-worthy grilled pork tenderloin at home. Let’s walk through the secrets to amazing grilled pork tenderloin.

Select the Right Size

Look for pork tenderloins that are about 1-1 1⁄2 pounds each. Anything larger may not cook evenly. One tenderloin is plenty for 4-6 portions. Inspect the meat to ensure it looks fresh.

Prep the Meat

Trim any silverskin or excess fat from the tenderloin. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Apply a light coat of oil on all sides to prevent sticking. Generously season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, oregano and thyme.

Bring Meat to Room Temp

Let the seasoned tenderloin sit at room temperature 30 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook more quickly and evenly.

Preheat the Grill

Prep your charcoal or gas grill for direct high heat cooking. Use a grill thermometer to gauge the temperature. You want the grill between 400-450°F to sear the meat.

Clean and oil the grill grates well so the pork doesn’t stick. Avoid grill grates with wide spaces between bars.

Grill the Tenderloin

Place the tenderloin directly over the hot grill grates. Grill for 4-5 minutes until nicely browned. Give the meat a quarter turn to get those good grill marks.

Flip and repeat grilling 4-5 minutes on the other side until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Avoid moving the pork too much which can cause sticking.

Let It Rest

Transfer the grilled tenderloin to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Carve and Serve

Slice the rested pork crosswise into 1⁄2 inch thick medallions. Pair it with your favorite grilled veggies, potatoes, or salad for an easy summer meal.

With a hot grill and these simple tips, you can achieve tender, juicy grilled pork tenderloin full of smoky barbecue flavor. Impress your family and friends with your grilling skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature should I grill pork tenderloin at?

Aim for 400-450°F direct grill heat to properly sear the meat.

How long should I grill a 1 lb pork tenderloin?

Approximately 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temp is 145°F.

Can I grill a whole tenderloin?

Yes, but it may cook more evenly if cut into medallions first.

Should I marinate the pork?

Marinating 1-2 hours adds great flavor but isn't necessary if well seasoned.

What are the best wood chips for grilling pork?

Fruit woods like apple and cherry pair well with pork.

Perfectly grilled pork tenderloin is easy to achieve at home. Follow these tips for tender, juicy pork with delicious grilled flavor.