Go Back

Honey BBQ Pork Tenderloin - Sweet, Smoky, and Weeknight-Friendly

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Pork tenderloin (1 to 1.5 pounds), silver skin trimmed
  • Honey (3 tablespoons)
  • BBQ sauce (1/2 cup; choose your favorite, thick style works best)
  • Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon)
  • Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
  • Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon)
  • Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Kosher salt (1 to 1.5 teaspoons)
  • Optional heat: cayenne pepper or chili powder (1/4 teaspoon)
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat the oven to 400°F (205°C) or preheat the grill to medium-high. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels and trim any silver skin so the seasoning can penetrate and the meat cooks evenly.
  2. Mix the rub: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and kosher salt. If you like a bit of heat, add cayenne. Drizzle the tenderloin with olive oil, then rub the spice mixture all over.
  3. Make the glaze: In another bowl, whisk honey, BBQ sauce, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Set aside. This will be used for brushing and finishing.
  4. Sear (optional but recommended): Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat with a thin film of oil. Sear the pork for 1 to 2 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step builds flavor and helps the glaze cling.
  5. Roast or grill: Oven: Transfer the skillet to the oven (or move the pork to a foil-lined sheet pan). Roast for 10 minutes. Brush generously with the honey BBQ glaze, then roast another 7 to 10 minutes.
  6. Grill: Place the pork over direct heat. Grill 3 to 4 minutes per side to get light char. Move to indirect heat, brush with glaze, and cook another 8 to 12 minutes, covered.
  7. Check doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer. Aim for 140–145°F in the thickest part. The temperature will rise a few degrees as it rests.
  8. Rest and finish: Transfer to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Brush with a final layer of glaze for shine and flavor.
  9. Slice and serve: Cut into 1/2-inch medallions. Spoon any pan juices on top and sprinkle chopped parsley or chives if you like. Serve with roasted potatoes, coleslaw, grilled corn, or a simple green salad.