Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (2024)

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Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (1)

By: Polly Conner

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When you grill a pork tenderloin instead of baking it, you still get the flavor and moistness but the bonus is the extra char-crispiness that coats the outside of the tenderloin.

Below you’ll see how long to grill a pork tenderloin as well as tips and a recipe to make it delicious!

Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (2)


Table of Contents

Reasons You’ll Love Grilled Pork Tenderloin

  • It’s SO easy. With just a few simple ingredients, any type of cook can make this recipe.
  • It’s freezer friendly. More on this below but this recipe is a great one to double and freeze. Like most of our freezer meals, it’s prepped right up until cooking. That way you simply thaw it before cooking so it tastes fresh.
  • Grilling it brings out more flavor. While baked pork tenderloin is delicious on its own, something about the open flame makes magical things happen. Once you grill it, you won’t go back!
  • It’skid-friendly. If your kids will eat meat (some don’t because of texture), they will likely like this.
  • It’s very affordable. People often overlook how cheap pork tenderloin is!
  • It’s healthy! Pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat and a great source of lean protein.
Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (3)

How Long to Grill Using the 7-6-5 Method

Anyone can cook pork tenderloin this way by following these step-by-step directions. While this timing has served me well over the years, every pork tenderloin is a touch different.

Let the meat thermometer be your guide on when it’s fully done.

  1. Simply preheat the grill to 450°F degrees.
  2. Place your seasoned tenderloin on the grill and let it sizzle with the lid shut for 7 minutes.
  3. Flip.
  4. Shut the lid and then let it grill for 6 more minutes.
  5. Now turn the heat off, and leave the lid closed for 4-5 minutes.
  6. Remove tenderloin from heat and let rest for 7-8 minutes before slicing.

Safety Note:

According to the USDA, the pork tenderloin needs to reach 145 degrees internally to be safe to eat.

We recommend using a meat thermometer inserted at the thickest part at this point to check that it’s 145 or just slightly under, as it will carry-over cook while resting.

Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (4)

Can You Freeze Pork Tenderloin?

Yes! It takes almost no extra time to double this recipe and freeze one for later.

After writing two freezer meal cookbooks andtesting hundreds and hundreds of freezer meal recipes over 10+ years, we’ve narrowed down the best recipes and methods for making healthy freezer meals for your family.

Our freezer meal recipes and methods are well-tested and delicious and this pork tenderloin recipe is no different.

How to Freeze Pork Tenderloin

Freeze For Later: Place the seasoned pork tenderloin in a gallon-sized freezer bag, squeeze out the air and seal tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Prepare From Frozen:Thaw the meal using one ofthese safe thawing methods. Then, roast in the oven or grill according to recipe directions, making absolutely sure to cook until it reaches the USDA’s recommendation of a safe internal temperature (145° F).

Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (5)

What other ways can you cook a pork tenderloin?

Because pork tenderloin cooks so fast, it’s easy to dry out while using the slow cooker or Instant Pot.

If you don’t want to grill the pork tenderloin, we highly recommend this incredibly simple and tasty Oven Roasted Pork Tenderloin.

If you do want to use your slow cooker, this Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Maple Glaze would be a great option. Pork loins (vs pork tenderloins) are a wider cut and are usually covered with a thicker fat cap. They do much better in the crock pot and even in the Instant Pot than a leaner cut like a pork tenderloin.

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Side Dish Ideas for Pork Tenderloin

Here are some side dish ideas for pork tenderloin.

See More Side Dish Ideas

Similar Recipes to Try

  • Hawaiian Pork Tenderloin – oven roasted or grilled
  • Oven Roasted Pork Tenderloin – with a seasoned rub
  • Oven Baked Boneless Pork Chops – super easy
  • Easy Pan-Seared Pork Chops – only 4 main ingredients
  • Instant Pot Pork Loin – with a Maple Glaze that’s sweet, savory, and delicious
  • Slow Cooker Pork Loin – also with a Maple Glaze that’s sweet, savory, and delicious

Did you make this? Snap a photo and tag us on Instagram at @thrivinghome so we can see your creations and cheer you on!

Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (12)

★★★★★5 from 10 reviews

Grilled Pork Tenderloin (7-6-5 Method)

A GREAT tip on how to grill pork tenderloin. You’ll never go back to baking it after you try the 7-6-5 method. This seasoning method produces a super flavorful tenderloin, too.

Yield: 46 servings 1x

Prep: 10 minutesCook: 20 minutesTotal: 30 minutes

Print RecipeRate Pin for Later

Units:

Scale:

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/4 pounds pork tenderloin (Here’s where we get meat that we trust)

Before You Begin! If you make this, please leave a review and rating letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business thrive & continue providing free recipes.

Instructions

Make It Now:

  1. Preheat the grill to 450°F degrees.
  2. Combine the garlic powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground thyme, and salt in a small bowl. Then, rub the seasoning in on all sides of the pork tenderloin.
  3. Place your seasoned tenderloin on the grill and let it sizzle with the lid shut for 7 minutes.
  4. Flip and shut the lid. Then, let it cook for 5-6 more minutes.
  5. Now turn the heat off, and leave the lid closed for 4-5 minutes. Tip: According to the USDA, the pork tenderloin needs to reach 145 degrees internally to be safe to eat. So we recommend using a meat thermometer inserted at the thickest part at this point to check that it’s 140-145°F, as it will carry-over cook while resting.
  6. Remove tenderloin from heat and let rest for 7-8 minutes before slicing.

Freeze For Later:Follow step 2. Seal the seasoned pork in a gallon-sized freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air, seal, and freeze.

Prepare From Frozen: Thaw completely (use one of these safe thawing methods). Grill according to recipe directions.

Notes/Tips

  • We get our meat from ButcherBox*. The pork is heritage-raised with no hormones or antibiotics and is absolutely delicious! We highly recommend this service to source DELICIOUS and HEALTHY meat–like grass-fed beef, organic chicken, wild salmon, and uncured bacon–and have used it for years ourselves.

© Author: Polly Conner

Cuisine:AmericanMethod:Grilling

Want More Grilling Recipes?

Check out these 15+ Amazing Grilling Recipes for more ideas. Yum!

Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (13)
Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (14)

Polly Conner

As co-founder of Thriving Home, Polly’s passionate about helping busy parents get dinner on the table. With a house full of kids, dogs, and (usually) a DIY project in the works, she knows firsthand how every minute (and every dollar) counts. As a business owner, she enjoys wearing multiple hats and serves best as a project manager for Thriving Home.

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  1. Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (15)Linda J Curtis says

    Making this for a second time. Definitely a winner

    Reply

    • Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (16)Carla from Thriving Home says

      Glad to hear it Linda. Thank you for taking the time to leave a review!

      Reply

  2. Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (17)Susan says

    Turned out perfect. Easy.

    Reply

    • Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (18)Carla from Thriving Home says

      Glad to hear it Susan. Thanks for leaving a review!

      Reply

  3. Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (19)Jo Cowles says

    It’s my go to!! Just need to keep aware the size of the loin and don’t overcook so adjust accordingly! It’s a keeper!!!

    Reply

    • Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (20)Carla Fletcher says

      Good reminders Jo. Thank you for leaving a review!

      Reply

      • Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (21)Janet says

        Tried this last night and it was great 😊 Will keep this recipe! My son who is picky really loved it! thank you.

        Reply

        • Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (22)Carla from Thriving Home says

          We always love to hear when picky eaters love something. Thanks for leaving a review Janet!

          Reply

  4. Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (23)Katherine Henshaw-Figueroa says

    The absolute best recipe for grilled pork tenderloin – always perfect!!!!!

    Reply

    • Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (24)Carla Fletcher says

      So glad you love it. Thank you for leaving a review!

      Reply

  5. Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (25)MY says

    Easiest and best every time grilled pork tenderloin recipe. My family begs for it !

    Reply

    • Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (26)Carla Fletcher says

      That’s so great to hear Mary! Thank you for the review.

      Reply

  6. Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (27)Joanne says

    Made this many times…. Fool proof as long as you bare in mind size of loin.
    It’s my go to.

    Reply

    • Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (28)Polly Conner says

      Thanks for taking the time to leave a review!

      Reply

    • Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (29)Rachel Tiemeyer says

      Awesome!!

      Reply

  7. Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (30)Hedy says

    You’re easy directions made an A-1 delicious pork tenderloin👍🏻 A definite keeper!

    Reply

    • Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (31)Rachel Tiemeyer says

      Awesome to hear that! Thanks, Hedy.

      Reply

  8. Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (32)Anne McDonough says

    I tried your foolproof method tonight and was very disappointed as my meat was 118 degrees after I completed all steps. People trust your recipes and I am so disappointed and wondering what went wrong.

    Reply

    • Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (33)Rachel Tiemeyer says

      I’m sorry you didn’t have luck, Anne. Did you use a 1.25 pork tenderloin (not pork loin)? Usually the 7-6-5 method can actually overcook a pork tenderloin that size…so that’s why we give a variation of times in the recipe. I’m not sure what went wrong, but we haven’t had that happen before with that size of tenderloin. Sorry!

      Reply

  9. Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (34)CarolAnn says

    Absolutely love this recipe. It’s perfect any time. Any idea if this would work with a beef tenderloin?

    Reply

    • Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (35)Rachel Tiemeyer says

      Thanks for the feedback! We haven’t tested this with beef tenderloin, so I’m not sure.

      Reply

Older Comments

Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipe (+ Pro Tips & Tricks) (2024)

FAQs

How do you keep pork tenderloin from drying out on the grill? ›

Grilling
  1. First, use a high-heat area to quickly brown the meat on all sides. ...
  2. Next, move the loin to a low-heat area of the grill and cover it with foil.
  3. Now, you can roast the pork using indirect cooking for approximately one to one and a half hours, or about 20 minutes per pound of meat.
Oct 3, 2023

What is the secret to tender pork loin? ›

If you're not confident in your cooking skills, there is one foolproof way to guarantee your pork ends up on the tender side, even if you cook it too long: Soak it in a brine or a marinade. According to Hazel, these kinds of preparations always produce the most tender outcomes.

What temperature do you grill pork tenderloin on a gas grill? ›

The best temperature to grill pork tenderloin is 350 to 375 degrees F.

Is it better to grill or bake pork loin? ›

The answer is almost always grilled pork tenderloin. Pork, especially the pork tenderloin, takes incredibly well to the smoky char of the grill.

How long should pork tenderloin sit out before grilling? ›

Don't cook pork tenderloin straight from the fridge.

Instead of cooking pork tenderloin straight from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you get started. Giving the meat a chance to warm up will ensure more even cooking.

How long does it take to grill a pork tenderloin? ›

On a grill preheated to medium heat, the pork tenderloin should be fully cooked after about 30 minutes over indirect heat. You'll know the pork is done when an instant read thermometer inserted into the center reads at least 145 degrees F.

What spices tenderize pork? ›

Brine the pork.

Brining involves soaking your meat in salt water to increase the tenderness and moistness of the final dish. Brines always contain salt and water, but can also include other ingredients for added flavor like apple cider, brown sugar, rosemary, and thyme.

Is it better to cook pork tenderloin fast or slow? ›

The size and structure of a tenderloin make it perfect for cooking quickly on high heat. You want to be able to brown the outside while still keeping it a little pink on the inside.

How do Chinese make pork so tender? ›

How do you tenderise pork for stir fry? Velveting is a Chinese technique that helps keep meat tender during stir frying. Adding cornstarch and bicarb to your meat during the marinating process helps to coat your meat, giving it a velvety feel that makes the meat feel extra soft.

Should pork tenderloin be at room temperature before grilling? ›

Meat juices inside can not react when we cook cold meat. We need room temperature for a juicy and tender steak. If you want to cook a tasty, delicious pork tenderloin in your oven, keeping all the flavors, you need to take it out of the refrigerator one hour before.

What temp do chefs cook pork tenderloin? ›

With a pork tenderloin: Season the meat, sear all sides in a very hot pan, and then finish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) degrees until the internal temp. hits 145°F (63°C).

What temp is pork tenderloin most tender? ›

Cooking Temperature of Pork

The safe internal pork cooking temperature for fresh cuts is 145° F. To check doneness properly, use a digital cooking thermometer. Fresh cut muscle meats such as pork chops, pork roasts, pork loin, and tenderloin should measure 145° F, ensuring the maximum amount of flavor.

Which is better pork loin or pork tenderloin? ›

While pork loin offers a larger size, robust flavor, and versatility in cooking methods, pork tenderloin boasts tenderness, lean meat, and a milder taste. By choosing the appropriate cut and applying suitable cooking techniques, you can create mouthwatering dishes that highlight the best qualities of each cut.

Should pork loin sit out before cooking? ›

To get the best flavor out of your meat, it should always be at room temperature before cooking. Taking this step achieves a lot more than maximizing the meat's flavor, aroma, and texture.

Should you sear a pork loin before grilling? ›

Sear the loin for 5 minutes per side over direct heat. Then, move it to indirect heat. Cook the roast for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The rule of thumb is 20 minutes of cooking time per pound.

How do you grill pork without drying it out? ›

Pork Loin Chops

Grill them incorrectly, and you'll end up with dry results. Therefore, you should always try to marinate or brine these pork chops first and cook them over high heat (watching them carefully).

Should I wrap my pork tenderloin in foil? ›

Cooking pork loin in the oven with foil is a foolproof method that ensures tender and flavorful results every time.

How do I cook a pork loin so it doesn't dry out? ›

Cook the pork loin for 10 minutes in the 400-degree oven. This will help to create a kind of “crust” on the meat to help keep the juices inside. Next, lower your oven temperature to 350 degrees F and continue to cook your roast for about 20 minutes per pound of meat. Yes, it takes some time.

Does pork loin get more tender the longer you cook it? ›

At 400 degrees F, a 1-pound pork tenderloin will cook in 8 to 10 minutes after being seared on the stove. Unlike tough, fatty cuts of meat (like the shoulder used for Slow Cooker Pulled Pork), leaner cuts like pork tenderloin do not become more tender the longer they cook. Use a meat thermometer to be sure.

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