13 Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipes That Are Juicy, Charred, And Full Of Flavor

13 Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipes That Are Juicy, Charred, And Full Of Flavor – your ticket to summer’s most mouthwatering meals. When the grill is fired up and the sun hangs low in the sky, nothing satisfies quite like a perfectly cooked pork tenderloin with that irresistible smoky crust. These 13 recipes transform this lean cut into juicy masterpieces, from Asian-inspired glazes that caramelize on the grill to bold dry rubs that form a flavorful bark. Each technique ensures your tenderloin stays moist while developing those beautiful grill marks we all crave.

Grilled Pork Tenderloin Recipes

Our collection takes this humble cut from simple to spectacular with global flavors that’ll transport your taste buds. Picture slicing into rosy-pink medallions bursting with garlic-herb butter, or pulling apart tender chunks of mojo-marinated pork infused with citrus and cumin. We’ve included foolproof methods for direct and indirect grilling, plus pro tips for achieving that ideal 145°F internal temperature every time. These aren’t just recipes – they’re your new grilling playbook for everything from quick weeknight dinners to impressive backyard feasts.

Spicy Chipotle Glazed Tenderloin

Grilled pork tenderloin with chipotle glaze and roasted vegetables on a plate.

Spicy Chipotle Glazed Tenderloin is a flavor-packed dish that combines the tenderness of pork with a smoky, spicy glaze. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The chipotle adds a kick, while the sweetness balances the heat, resulting in a deliciously charred exterior that seals in the juices.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you have a hearty meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

  • 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the chipotle, honey, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will be your glaze.
  3. Brush the pork tenderloin with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Place the tenderloin on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  5. During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the glaze generously over the tenderloin.
  6. Remove from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve garnished with fresh cilantro.

Herb-Marinated Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Grilled pork tenderloin with herbs and garnishing.

This herb-marinated grilled pork tenderloin is a delightful dish that combines juicy meat with bold flavors from fresh herbs. The marinade infuses the pork with a savory taste, making every bite a burst of deliciousness. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy family dinner.

Making this dish is simple and doesn’t require any fancy techniques. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients

  • 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
  2. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork tenderloins in a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the pork, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade and discard the marinade.
  4. Grill the Tenderloin: Place the pork on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cajun-Spiced Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Cajun-spiced grilled pork tenderloin sliced and garnished with herbs

This Cajun-spiced grilled pork tenderloin is a delicious way to add some zest to your dinner table. The blend of spices gives the meat a bold flavor while keeping it juicy and tender. Plus, it’s super easy to make, perfect for weeknight meals or weekend barbecues.

The smoky char from the grill complements the spicy Cajun seasoning, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and exciting. Serve it alongside a fresh slaw or grilled veggies for a full meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb pork tenderloin
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and lime juice to form a paste.
  2. Marinate the Pork: Rub the spice mixture all over the pork tenderloin. Place it in a zip-top bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Tenderloin: Place the marinated pork on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until a meat thermometer reads 145°F (63°C).
  5. Rest and Slice: Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your choice of sides.

Lemon Garlic Grilled Tenderloin

Delicious grilled pork tenderloin garnished with lemon slices and herbs.

Grilling pork tenderloin is a fantastic way to bring out its natural flavors, and the lemon garlic marinade adds a zesty twist that brightens each bite. This recipe is simple and perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.

The combination of garlic and fresh lemon juice not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a refreshing flavor. The end result is a juicy, charred tenderloin that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pork tenderloin
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
  2. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade and discard the marinade.
  3. Grill the Tenderloin: Place the tenderloin on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  4. Rest and Slice: Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside the meat.
  5. Serve: Slice the tenderloin and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy the fresh, tangy flavor!

Teriyaki Pork Tenderloin Skewers

Grilled pork tenderloin skewers with colorful vegetables

Teriyaki Pork Tenderloin Skewers are a deliciously easy way to elevate your grilling game. Marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, these skewers deliver a burst of flavor with every bite. The charred edges add a delightful texture, making them a hit at any barbecue.

Perfect for summer cookouts or a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers are simple to prepare and cook. Just marinate the pork, thread it onto skewers with colorful vegetables, and grill until juicy and charred. Serve them with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, combine the pork cubes and teriyaki sauce. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
  2. Prepare Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated pork and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between meat and veggies.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  5. Serve: Remove from the grill, sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired, and serve hot with rice or salad.

Balsamic Vinegar and Fig Glazed Pork

Sliced pork tenderloin with a balsamic fig glaze, garnished with figs and parsley.

This Balsamic Vinegar and Fig Glazed Pork recipe is a delightful blend of sweetness and tang, bringing out the best in juicy pork tenderloin. The combination of rich balsamic vinegar and luscious figs creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, providing a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The succulent pork tenderloin, coated in this flavorful glaze, will impress your family and friends. As it cooks, the glaze thickens and develops a deep, rich color, enhancing the overall presentation. Get ready to enjoy a dish that’s not only tasty but also visually stunning!

Ingredients

  • 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound)
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup fig jam
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh figs, for garnish (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, fig jam, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for best flavor.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade, discarding the marinade.
  4. Grill the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  5. Let Rest: Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  6. Serve: Slice the pork, drizzle with any remaining glaze, and garnish with fresh figs and parsley if desired.

Honey Mustard Glazed Pork Tenderloin

Honey mustard glazed pork tenderloin sliced and garnished

This Honey Mustard Glazed Pork Tenderloin recipe brings together a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors. The tenderloin is marinated in a honey mustard sauce that infuses the meat with a rich taste while keeping it juicy and tender during grilling. It’s a simple dish that’s great for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The combination of honey and mustard creates a beautiful caramelized glaze as it cooks, resulting in a vibrant color and mouthwatering aroma. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

  • 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If using, add the chopped rosemary for an extra flavor kick.
  2. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C).
  4. Grill the Tenderloin: Remove the pork from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place it on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve drizzled with any reserved glaze for an extra punch of flavor.

Garlic and Rosemary Grilled Tenderloin

Grilled pork tenderloin garnished with rosemary

This Garlic and Rosemary Grilled Tenderloin is a true delight for meat lovers. The combination of garlic and fresh rosemary infuses the pork with a fragrant, savory flavor that makes every bite unforgettable. Plus, the grilling adds a lovely char, sealing in all the juicy goodness.

Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it’s also surprisingly simple to prepare. Perfect for a weekend barbecue or a weeknight dinner, this recipe will impress your family and friends without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pork tenderloin
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Tenderloin: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar. Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for more flavor.
  2. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
  3. Grill the Tenderloin: Remove the tenderloin from the marinade and let excess marinade drip off. Place it on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  4. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the tenderloin from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Mango and Avocado Salsa Topped Tenderloin

Grilled pork tenderloin topped with mango and avocado salsa served on a colorful plate with lime wedges.

This grilled pork tenderloin topped with mango and avocado salsa is a fresh and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of juicy pork and sweet, tangy salsa creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it a great choice for both busy weeknights and laid-back weekend gatherings.

The rich, smoky notes from the grilled tenderloin pair perfectly with the creamy avocado and bright mango, resulting in a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing. If you’re looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is for you!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pork tenderloin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the pork tenderloin and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Grill the Tenderloin: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the tenderloin for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  3. Make the Salsa: In a mixing bowl, combine diced mango, avocado, cucumber, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Serve: Slice the grilled pork tenderloin and top with the mango and avocado salsa. Enjoy alongside your favorite sides!

Honey Garlic Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Sliced honey garlic grilled pork tenderloin on a wooden board with vegetables

This Honey Garlic Grilled Pork Tenderloin is all about juicy goodness wrapped in sweet and savory flavors. The sauce is a delightful combination of honey and garlic, creating a glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving you that perfect char. It’s surprisingly simple to whip up, making it a go-to option for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.

As you slice into the tenderloin, you’ll be greeted with a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. This dish is not only delicious but also a hit with both kids and adults alike, ensuring that your meal time is filled with smiles.

Ingredients

  • 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, black pepper, salt, and paprika.
  2. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal or cover, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the Pork: Remove the pork from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place it on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  5. Rest and Slice: Once cooked, remove the tenderloin from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice into medallions and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Maple Glazed Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Grilled pork tenderloin with maple glaze and sliced peaches on a grill.

This Maple Glazed Grilled Pork Tenderloin is a flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the savory notes of grilled pork. It’s simple to prepare and delivers a delightful balance of flavors that will impress your family and friends at any cookout.

The tenderloin is marinated to absorb the sweet and tangy glaze, making every bite juicy and satisfying. Plus, with just a few ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, black pepper, and salt.
  2. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Pork: Remove the pork from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the tenderloin on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve it warm with your favorite sides and enjoy the deliciously sweet and savory flavors!

Asian-Inspired Grilled Tenderloin with Sesame Seeds

Grilled pork tenderloin garnished with sesame seeds and green onions on a wooden board

This Asian-inspired grilled pork tenderloin is a delight for the taste buds. Marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, it offers a sweet and savory flavor that’s hard to resist. The sesame seeds add a lovely crunch, while the charred edges provide a smoky finish that pairs perfectly with the tender meat. Simple to make, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dish on the table in no time. Serve it alongside steamed rice and fresh vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds pork tenderloin
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Place the pork tenderloin in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
  2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  3. Grill the Tenderloin: Remove the pork from the marinade and season with salt and pepper. Place on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  4. Add Sesame Seeds: In the last few minutes of grilling, sprinkle sesame seeds over the tenderloin to toast them slightly.
  5. Rest and Slice: Once cooked, remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice into medallions and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Smoky Paprika and Brown Sugar Rubbed Pork

A succulent pork tenderloin with a smoky paprika and brown sugar rub, perfectly grilled

This smoky paprika and brown sugar rubbed pork tenderloin is a delightful dish that brings together a sweet and savory flavor profile. The combination of smoky paprika and brown sugar creates a beautiful caramelization on the meat when grilled, resulting in a juicy and flavorful centerpiece for any meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend barbecues.

The tenderloin marinates beautifully, allowing the spices to infuse the meat, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Serve it sliced alongside grilled vegetables or on a bed of rice for an unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound pork tenderloin
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rub: In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Prep the Pork: Rub the olive oil over the pork tenderloin. Coat the tenderloin evenly with the spice mixture, pressing it into the meat.
  3. Marinate: Let the pork sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours for a deeper flavor.
  4. Grill the Pork: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the pork tenderloin on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Final Thoughts


Grilled pork tenderloin is the unsung hero of outdoor cooking – lean enough to feel virtuous yet rich enough to satisfy, with endless possibilities for flavor exploration. As you work through these recipes, remember the magic happens when quality meat meets proper technique: don’t skip the brine for extra juiciness, let those rubs form a proper crust, and most importantly – rest your meat before slicing. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving some smoky goodness, these recipes prove pork tenderloin deserves a permanent spot in your grilling rotation. Fire up those coals and get ready to taste summer at its finest!

Soumyadip Chatterjee
Founder of dinnerfocus.com
DinnerFocus.com is your go-to destination for everything food! From quick and easy meal ideas to gourmet recipes, kitchen tips, and the latest food trends, we help you create memorable dining experiences every day. Discover the joy of cooking, one dish at a time!