These classic flavors are quick and easy to get on the grill and are always a crowd favorite. Pork tenderloin is one of our favorite cuts because it is budget-friendly and cooks so quickly. Tenderloin itself is naturally tender and juicy which makes it an easy entry point for those new to grilling. Even experienced backyard grillmasters love tenderloins as a quick and easy option that’s always delicious. With just a few minutes of preparation, this recipe will become a staple for all your backyard grilling meals.

Since you are already at the grill, complete your meal by adding some grilled vegetables, lemon garlic zucchini, or even grilled potatoes. If you aim to really impress, add grilled lemonade to the menu!

Why Our Recipe

  • A simple dijon rub with minimal spices means this recipe requires just 5 minutes of prep.
  • 15 minutes (or less!) of grill time means dinner is on the table fast.
  • Tenderloins are hard to dry out, making them perfect for even beginners at the grill.
An entire grilled pork tenderloin is laid out on a wooden cutting board.

This cut is like the fillet minion of pork. When I grill pork tenderloin, I love to buy a four-pack and make two groups with different flavors for a delicious combination. You will love how easy they are to make and how well they pair with any side.

Ingredient Notes

The ingredients for grilled pork tenderloin laid out on a table.
  • Pork Tenderloin: This recipe can easily be scaled to accommodate multiple tenderloins.
  • Dijon Mustard: This helps act as a binder for the seasonings. Its acidity acts as a great balance for the salt and the pepper. You can use smooth or whole grain dijon for this recipe.
  • Italian Seasoning: Check out our recipe for homemade Italian seasoning.

Pork Tenderloin vs. Pork Loin

Pork tenderloin is a small, thin strip of meat that comes from the backbone area. It is always sold boneless and only weighs 1 to 1 1/2 pounds. Pork tenderloin is the most tender cut of pork. It is best suited for quick cooking using high heat.

Pork loin is a large, lean piece of meat cut from the back area. It is best suited for cooking over medium heat or slow-roasted in the oven.

Pork tenderloin and pork loin cannot be used interchangeably.  

Grilling Time

Pork tenderloins are all roughly 1 to 1/2 pounds and take approximately 15 minutes to cook over a high heat of about 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Pork needs to be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

A side shot of a delicious slice of grilled pork tenderloin.

Pink is Right!

Can pork tenderloin be a little pink? Yes! And it actually SHOULD be a pale pink color in the middle. The USDA recommends that pork be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. At 145 degrees Fahrenheit, you will have the juiciest pork tenderloin possible which will be a pale shade of pink in the center, but still fully safe to eat. Even overcooked tenderloin can still have a pink hue. Remember, pork is a red meat like beef.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to five days.

Reheat in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat until warmed through for the best reheating results.

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