How long should I marinate a pork tenderloin?

Marinate pork tenderloin for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in, but longer times will give you deeper flavor. For citrus-based marinades, stick to 30 minutes to 4 hours, while non-citrus marinades can go up to overnight.

What the best way to cook pork tenderloin so it's tender?

The trick is not to overcook it! I like to cook pork tenderloin quickly at a higher temperature (oven or grill) and pull it at 145°F to keep it juicy and tender. Also, let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing so the juices redistribute instead of running out!

Can I use these marinades for other cuts of pork?

Yes! These work well with pork chops or pork loin, but you may need to adjust cooking time.

Can I freeze pork in the marinade?

You can definitely freeze the pork directly in the marinade. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking!

Best Pork Tenderloin Marinade (2 Easy Recipes That Stay Juicy)

Best Pork Tenderloin Marinade (Citrus Garlic + Garlic Herb)

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Citrus Garlic Pork Tenderloin Marinade

This marinade started with a shortcut I grab at Trader Joe’s — their Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend. It’s bright, garlicky, and citrusy, which works really well with pork. I add lime zest, honey, and a few extra spices to round it out.

Bright, slightly sweet from the honey — this is my go-to pork tenderloin marinade for grilling.

Garlic Herb Pork Tenderloin Marinade

This marinade leans a little more savory and herb-forward. Dijon mustard, Worcestershire, garlic, and paprika give the pork deeper flavor, while the maple syrup adds a little sweetness to balance everything out.

Especially good as an oven pork tenderloin marinade, but just as great on the grill.

Author: Anca Toderic
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes (oven) / 12–15 minutes (grill)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pork

2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)

Citrus Garlic Marinade

1 1/2 tablespoons Trader Joe’s Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend

zest of 1 lime

juice of 1 lime

2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

3 tablespoons avocado oil

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Garlic Herb Marinade

1/4 cup avocado oil

juice of 1 lemon

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon maple syrup

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

2 teaspoons garlic powder

2 teaspoons onion powder

2 teaspoons paprika

salt and black pepper to taste

fresh thyme leaves

fresh rosemary leaves

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Instructions

Choose one of the marinade options above.
In a bowl whisk together the marinade ingredients until well combined.

Marinade ingredients whisked together in a bowl.

3. Place the pork tenderloins in a dish or large zip-top bag and pour the marinade over the meat, turning to coat evenly.

Pork tenderloin marinade poured over the pork in a large bag.

4. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator. For the citrus marinade, marinate 30 minutes to 4 hours. For the garlic herb marinade, marinate at least 2 hours or up to overnight.

Hands holding a bag of marinated pork tenderloin.

5. Cook using either the grill or oven method below.

How to Cook Marinated Pork Tenderloin

Oven Method

Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Place the marinated pork tenderloin in a baking dish or on a sheet pan and roast for 15–18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Two marinated pork tenderloins in a baking dish.

3. Remove from the oven and let the pork rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.

Two pork tenderloins baked together in a white baking dish.

Grill Method

Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the pork tenderloins for about 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Because the citrus marinade contains lime juice, it’s best not to marinate overnight. The garlic herb marinade can marinate overnight for deeper flavor.

Both marinades also work great with pork chops or pork loin — just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Serving Ideas

One of my favorite ways to use leftovers is for pork tenderloin sandwiches. I pile the slices onto toasted bread and slather them with my Calabrian chili mayo.

Slice the pork thin and spoon the juices over the top. Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, potatoes, or a simple salad. Leftovers are great for sandwiches, wraps, or grain bowls the next day.

Find it online: https://thebuttertable.com/pork-tenderloin-marinade/