Pork tenderloin tips, also known as pork tenders, are small cuts of meat from the tenderloin section of the pig. They are tender, lean, and flavorful cuts that are excellent for quick cooking. Knowing the proper internal temperature for cooking pork tenderloin tips is important to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat, but also juicy and tender.
What is the Safe Internal Temperature for Pork?
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) with a 3 minute rest time. This temperature kills potentially harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli. Pork cooked to 145°F is safe to eat while still being juicy and tender.
Some chefs may recommend cooking pork to 160°F (71°C) for added safety margin. While 160°F pork will be safe to eat, it may be drier and slightly overcooked. For best texture and moisture, the USDA recommends stopping cooking at 145°F.
USDA Safe Minimum Internal Temperatures
| Food | Safe Internal Temperature |
|---|---|
| Beef, Pork, Veal, Lamb Steaks, Roasts & Chops | 145°F (63°C) |
| Ground Meat | 160°F (71°C) |
| Poultry (Chicken, Turkey, Duck) | 165°F (74°C) |
| Fresh Ham (raw) | 145°F (63°C) |
| Pre-cooked Ham (to reheat) | 140°F (60°C) |
| Eggs | 160°F (71°C) |
| Leftovers | 165°F (74°C) |
What is the Ideal Final Temperature for Pork Tenderloin Tips?
While 145°F is the USDA recommended minimum safe temperature, many chefs recommend cooking pork tenderloin tips to 150-155°F for the best texture.
Benefits of Cooking Pork Tenderloin Tips to 150-155°F:
- More tender and juicy – Collagen begins breaking down around 150°F for added moisture and tenderness.
- Pink tint – Pork cooked to just above 145°F will have a slight pink tint in the center while being safe to eat.
- More forgiveness – The higher temp allows for a 5-10°F carryover cooking after removing from the heat source.
The collagen breakdown and moisture retention from cooking to 150-155°F makes for the most tender, juicy pork tenderloin tip result. The slightly pink center is safe but provides an appealing color.
Tips for Cooking Pork Tenderloin Tips to the Right Temp
Follow these tips to ensure your pork tenderloin tips reach the ideal internal temperature:
1. Use a Meat Thermometer
The most reliable way to test the internal temperature of pork tenderloin tips is to use an instant read digital meat thermometer. Thermometers quickly give a temperature reading with 1-2°F accuracy. Test the internal temp in the thickest part of the meat, away from any bones.
2. Cook to 5°F Below Target Temperature
Pork tenderloin tips will continue cooking after being removed from the heat source. To prevent overcooking, remove pork from the heat when it reaches 5°F below the target temp. For example, remove at 145°F for 150°F cooked pork. The temperature will rise during the 3 minute rest time.
3. Rest Pork for 3 Minutes
Let pork tenderloin tips rest for 3 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat for a moister, more tender result. Skipping the rest can result in dry pork.
4. Cook Low and Slow
Cook pork tenderloin tips low and slow to prevent the outside from overcooking before the inside reaches the target temp. Use lower heat around 300-325°F and roast until the internal temperature hits 150°F when tested.
Common Cooking Methods for Pork Tenderloin Tips
Pork tenderloin tips are suitable for quick cooking using methods like:
Pan Searing
– Heat oil in a skillet over high heat.
– Add pork tips and cook 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
– Reduce heat to medium and cook to 150°F internal temperature.
Broiling
– Place pork on a broiler pan lined with foil.
– Broil 5-6 inches from heat for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
– Cook until internal temperature reaches 150°F.
Grilling
– Preheat grill to medium high heat.
– Place pork on oiled grates and grill for 4-6 minutes per side.
– Grill until internal temp hits 150°F.
Roasting
– Heat oven to 325°F.
– Place pork on a sheet pan and roast 25-30 minutes until 150°F internal temp.
Sous Vide
– Vacuum seal pork with seasoning.
– Cook in water bath at 140°F for 1-2 hours until 150°F internal temp.
– Sear quickly on hot skillet or grill before serving.
Common Seasonings for Pork Tenderloin Tips
Season pork tenderloin tips with:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Oregano
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Sage
For added flavor, marinate tips for 30-60 minutes in ingredients like:
- Soy sauce
- Worcestershire sauce
- BBQ sauce
- Mustard
- Olive oil and vinegar
- Fruit juices
- Wine or beer
Experiment with dried spices, fresh herbs, chopped garlic, citrus, and other aromatics when seasoning pork tenderloin tips.
Doneness Indicators Besides Temperature
While temperature is the most reliable test for doneness, visual indicators can provide an idea of whether pork tenderloin tips are cooked properly:
Color
– Raw pork is pink with some white fat marbling.
– At 150°F, pork develops a very light pink tint throughout.
– Well done pork appears uniformly white/light brown throughout.
Juices
– Raw pork releases clear juices.
– Juices turn milky white around 145-150°F as proteins coagulate.
– Well done pork releases clear juices again.
Texture
– Raw pork is soft and squishy.
– Pork firms up at 140-150°F but still retains moisture.
– Well done pork is firm and dry.
Use these visual tests along with a thermometer to determine the doneness of pork tenderloin tips.
Carryover Cooking of Pork Tenderloin Tips
Carryover cooking refers to the rise in temperature seen after meat is removed from the heat source. The residual heat trapped in the meat continues gently cooking the interior.
Pork tenderloin tips can rise around 5-10°F after being taken off the grill, out of the oven, etc. This means meat removed at an internal temp of 145°F can reach 150-155°F during the recommended 3 minute rest time.
Factors affecting carryover cooking:
- Thickness – Carryover is more pronounced in thicker cuts.
- Cooking temperature – Meat cooked at higher temps exhibits greater carryover.
- Resting time – Carryover increases the longer meat rests.
Accounting for carryover ensures pork isn’t overcooked. Remove pork from heat at 140-145°F and allow the temperature to coast up to 150°F.
How Long to Cook Pork Tenderloin Tips
Cook times for pork tenderloin tips vary based on the thickness and preparation method. General guidelines:
Pan Searing
– 1/2 inch thick tips: 2-3 minutes per side
– 1 inch thick tips: 3-4 minutes per side
Broiling
– 1/2 inch thick: 8-10 minutes total
– 1 inch thick: 10-12 minutes total
Grilling
– 1/2 inch thick: 6-8 minutes total
– 1 inch thick: 10-12 minutes total
Roasting at 325°F
– 1/2 inch thick: 15-18 minutes
– 1 inch thick: 20-25 minutes
Monitor thickness and cut pieces to determine when the pork has reached the proper internal temperature. Thicker pieces take longer.
Conclusion
For safe, juicy pork tenderloin tips, cook to an internal temperature of 150-155°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Allow the pork to rest before serving, and monitor thickness to determine optimal cooking times. Season pork with spices, herbs, and marinades for maximum flavor. Mastering the ideal temperature and technique ensures tender and delicious pork tenderloin tips every time.