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Smoked Pork Tenderloin - Juicy, Flavorful, and Easy

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 to 1.25 pounds each), silver skin trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or neutral oil
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1.5 teaspoons black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1–2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple sugar (optional, for caramelization)
  • 1 teaspoon ground mustard (optional, for tang)
  • Wood for smoking: apple, cherry, or hickory (fruit woods are gentler; hickory is bolder)
  • Barbecue sauce or maple glaze (optional for finishing)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your smoker: Set to 225–250°F. Choose a mild wood like apple or cherry for a slightly sweet smoke. Hickory works if you want a stronger flavor.
  2. Prep the pork: Pat the tenderloins dry. Trim any silver skin with a sharp knife so the rub penetrates and the meat stays tender.
  3. Season generously: Rub each tenderloin with oil. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, brown sugar, and ground mustard. Coat the pork evenly on all sides.
  4. Let it sit: Rest the seasoned pork at room temperature for 15–20 minutes while the smoker stabilizes. This helps even cooking.
  5. Smoke low and slow: Place the tenderloins on the smoker grates. Close the lid and smoke until the thickest part hits 140–145°F, about 60–90 minutes depending on thickness and smoker temp.
  6. Optional glaze: In the last 10–15 minutes, brush with barbecue sauce or a quick maple-butter glaze for a glossy finish. Keep it light so you don’t mask the smoke.
  7. Rest before slicing: Transfer to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil for 5–10 minutes. This keeps the juices in the meat, not on your board.
  8. Slice and serve: Cut into 1/2-inch medallions across the grain. Serve with roasted veggies, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.