Pork tenderloin is a quick and easy cut of meat to cook, making it a popular choice for weeknight meals. When using an outdoor cooker like the Big Easy, you can make juicy and flavorful pork tenderloin in about an hour from start to finish.
What is pork tenderloin?
Pork tenderloin is a cylindrical cut of meat that comes from the loin section of the pig. It is very lean and tender, with little fat or connective tissue. Pork tenderloins usually weigh between 1-2 pounds each.
Compared to other pork cuts like chops or roasts, tenderloin has very mild flavor. It also cooks faster since it is so lean and small in size. These characteristics make pork tenderloin a versatile and easy to prepare cut.
Benefits of cooking pork tenderloin in the Big Easy
The Big Easy is a convection oil-less turkey fryer that uses infrared heat to cook food. It has several benefits for preparing pork tenderloin:
- Very hot temperatures – The Big Easy can reach temperatures up to 450°F, which is ideal for getting a nice sear on the pork.
- Even cooking – The infrared heat surrounds the meat, cooking it evenly from all sides.
- Moist and tender results – The convection heat keeps pork tenderloin very moist while still allowing for browning on the outside.
- Minimal fat splatter – With no oil, there is less mess and fat splatter to deal with.
- Holds flavor – Any marinades, rubs, or bastes stay on the surface of the meat rather than getting lost in oil or the bottom of a pan.
The Big Easy takes a lot of the guesswork out of pork tenderloin cooking. With its high heat and convection currents, you are pretty much guaranteed a juicy finished product.
How long to cook pork tenderloin in the Big Easy
Cooking times can vary slightly based on the size, shape, and thickness of your pork tenderloin. However, most 1-2 pound tenderloins will take 45-60 minutes at 350°F in the Big Easy. Here are more precise cooking times:
- 1 pound tenderloin – 38-45 minutes
- 1.5 pound tenderloin – 45-52 minutes
- 2 pound tenderloin – 50-60 minutes
For best results, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F before removing from the cooker. The tenderloin should register at least 150°F after resting for 5-10 minutes.
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these simple steps for cooking juicy, flavorful pork tenderloin in the Big Easy:
- Take the pork tenderloin out of the fridge and pat dry with paper towels. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Prepare any rubs, marinades, or bastes. Coat the tenderloin evenly all over.
- Preheat the Big Easy to 350°F.
- Place tenderloin directly on the cooker grate. No need for extra pans or racks.
- Cook for estimated time based on size. Start checking temperature after 30 minutes.
- Remove tenderloin when internal temp reaches 145°F. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Optional – glaze or baste during last 10 minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
Choosing flavorings and recipes
One of the best parts about pork tenderloin is that it goes well with endless seasoning combos. Get creative with your favorite flavors!
Some popular options include:
- Herbs and spices: rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, chili powder
- Sweet flavors: brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, apple, peach
- Sauces and marinades: soy sauce, teriyaki, barbecue, mustard, balsamic, wine
- Rubs and bastes: Cajun seasoning, jerk seasoning, Kansas City rub
Try one of these tested recipes for fantastic Big Easy pork tenderloin:
Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin
This simple maple and mustard coated tenderloin is a crowd favorite. Be sure to use real maple syrup for the best flavor.
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Tenderloin
Teriyaki and grilled pineapple make for a fun and flavorful Asian inspired tenderloin.
Coffee Spice Rubbed Pork with Bourbon Glaze
A sweet and savory blend of coffee, spices, and bourbon takes this tenderloin to the next level.
Serving and side dishes
Pork tenderloin goes great with all sorts of side dishes thanks to its versatility. Here are some top pairings:
- Roasted vegetables – Potatoes, Brussels sprouts, carrots, parsnips
- Rice pilaf or risotto
- Pasta salad with vinaigrette
- Green salad with fresh veggies and vinaigrette
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Quinoa or farro salad
For extra flavor, make a pan sauce from the pork drippings. Deglaze the hot cooker with chicken broth, wine, or other bold liquids. Stir and scrape up browned bits, then simmer to reduce into an easy sauce.
Tips for best results
Use these tips for making the most tender, juicy pork tenderloin every time in the Big Easy:
- Pat the tenderloin very dry before cooking for better browning.
- Allow meat to come closer to room temp before cooking.
- Season all over with salt, pepper, and other spices for flavor in every bite.
- Use an instant read thermometer for the most accurate doneness.
- Wrap in foil for 5-10 minutes resting to redistribute juices.
- Let the cooker fully preheat before adding meat. Use higher heat for more browning.
- Avoid overcooking by relying on thermometer over cook time.
Big Easy cooking tips
Take advantage of your Big Easy outdoor cooker with these general tips:
- Experiment with cook times and temps. The hotter the temp, the faster it cooks.
- Let the cooker fully preheat for best results. This takes 10-15 minutes.
- Use an oven-safe thermometer placed inside to monitor temps.
- Don’t peek under the lid too frequently or it will lower the temperature.
- Brush on glazes in the last 10-15 minutes only to avoid burning.
- Foil wrapping is great for larger cuts of meat to ensure even cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should pork tenderloin be cooked from frozen?
It is not recommended to cook pork tenderloin directly from frozen in the Big Easy. Defrost first by placing in the refrigerator overnight. This allows for more even cooking.
Is it better to cook 1 big or 2 small tenderloins?
One large tenderloin generally cooks more evenly than two smaller ones. The two tenderloins can vary slightly in size and shape, leading to uneven cooking. For a big meal, stick with one big tenderloin in the 2 pound range.
Do you need to flip pork tenderloin while cooking?
Flipping is not necessary when cooking in the Big Easy. The infrared heat surrounds the meat evenly, cooking all sides at once. You can flip halfway through for even browning if desired.
Should tenderloin rest before carving?
Yes, it is very important to let the pork tenderloin rest after cooking. A rest of 5-10 minutes wrapped in foil allows juices to redistribute through the meat. This makes the pork much juicier when you slice into it.
Can you reheat leftover pork tenderloin?
Cooked pork tenderloin holds up well for leftovers. Store properly wrapped in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
Cooking juicy pork tenderloin in the Big Easy is simple. Allow just an hour of cook time for tender and moist results accented with your favorite seasonings. Follow the recommended cook times and temperatures, and pork tenderloin makes for a perfect fast weeknight dinner from the grill.