Butter Injected Smoked Pork Tenderloin is a culinary delight that takes the classic pork tenderloin to new heights. Infusing the meat with rich, savory butter enhances its natural flavor, while the smoking process adds a depth of smokiness that makes each bite unforgettable. Perfect for a weekend barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this recipe promises tenderness, juiciness, and a unique taste that will impress everyone at the table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Butter Injected Smoked Pork Tenderloin for its incredible flavor profile and ease of preparation. The combination of butter and spices creates a mouthwatering richness that perfectly complements the tender pork. Plus, smoking the tenderloin enhances its flavor, making it a standout dish for any occasion. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Tips and Tricks
- Butter Injection: Use a meat injector to ensure the butter is evenly distributed throughout the tenderloin. This technique not only enhances flavor but also keeps the meat moist during cooking.
- Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, marinate the tenderloin overnight. This allows the spices and butter to penetrate the meat deeply.
- Smoke with Fruit Woods: Consider using fruit woods like apple or cherry for a sweet, subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with pork.
- Resting Time: Allow the smoked tenderloin to rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, ensuring every bite is as succulent as possible.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the butter injection mixture and the marinade a day in advance. Store the butter mixture in the refrigerator until ready to use. You can also inject the tenderloin the night before, allowing it to marinate overnight for optimal flavor. The smoked tenderloin can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days after cooking, making it a great option for meal prep.
Recipe Variations
- Herb-Infused Butter: Experiment with different herbs in your butter injection, such as rosemary, thyme, or sage, to give the tenderloin a unique twist.
- Spice Blends: Try adding different spice blends to the marinade, like Cajun or Mexican seasonings, for a different flavor profile.
- Cooking Method: If you don’t have a smoker, you can achieve a similar effect by grilling the tenderloin over indirect heat or using a stovetop smoker.
How to Serve
Serve Butter Injected Smoked Pork Tenderloin sliced into medallions for an attractive presentation. Pair it with sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Drizzle any remaining juices over the top for added flavor and garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement your meal with a glass of chilled Chardonnay or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir. A refreshing iced tea with lemon can also pair wonderfully. For sides, consider serving with a tangy coleslaw or a sweet potato casserole. For dessert, a light fruit tart or a chocolate mousse would be an excellent finish to the meal.
How to Store
Leftover smoked pork tenderloin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F until heated through, or slice and warm in a skillet over medium heat.
Equipment Needed
- Meat injector
- Smoker or grill
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
If you don’t have a meat injector, you can use a zip-top bag to marinate the tenderloin and massage the butter into the meat.
Dietary Adaptations
For those looking to make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or olive oil. To create a gluten-free version, ensure your spices and marinades are gluten-free. If you’d like to make this recipe vegan, consider using a plant-based tenderloin substitute and following the same steps for injection and smoking.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, consider incorporating fresh herbs like basil and oregano into your marinade. In fall, you might want to add a touch of maple syrup to the butter for a sweet, seasonal twist. During winter, feel free to include warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen pork tenderloin? Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and injecting.
- What can I substitute for the butter? Olive oil or a plant-based butter can be used as substitutes.
- How long does it take to smoke the tenderloin? Generally, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the thickness of the tenderloin and your smoker’s temperature.
- Can I cook this in the oven? Yes, you can roast it in the oven at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches the desired internal temperature.
Butter Injected Smoked Pork Tenderloin
Butter Injected Smoked Pork Tenderloin is a culinary delight that takes the classic pork tenderloin to new heights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the Butter Injection: In a bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Inject the Tenderloin: Using a meat injector, inject the butter mixture evenly throughout the pork tenderloin.
- Marinate: In a separate bowl, mix olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Rub this mixture over the tenderloin. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
- Smoke the Tenderloin: Place the tenderloin in the smoker and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Rest: Remove the tenderloin from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Slice the tenderloin into medallions, serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 408Total Fat 31gSaturated Fat 16gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 144mgSodium 598mgCarbohydrates 2gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 30g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
The Butter Injected Smoked Pork Tenderloin is a showstopper that combines simplicity with gourmet flair. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s a dish that brings comfort while still feeling special. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Embrace the smoky goodness and enjoy every bite!
