Introduction
Let’s face it: pork tenderloin is the perfect dinner option. It’s lean and flavorful, making it a healthier alternative to a beef roast. And because it cooks quickly (about 20 minutes), you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with friends or family. But just how long do you cook a pork tenderloin?
Temperature
The temperature of your pork tenderloin is also important. The USDA recommends cooking meat to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, but that may be too rare for some people’s tastes. If you prefer your pork more well done, aim for 160 degrees or higher.
Prep Time
Preparation time is 1.5-2 hours.
Cooking Time
- Cooking time depends on the size of the tenderloin.
- Pork tenderloin is done when its internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. A 1-pound pork tenderloin will take about 15 minutes to cook through at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, while a 2-pound tenderloin will take up to 25 minutes.
How Long Do You Cook a Pork Tenderloin
The cooking time for a pork tenderloin will depend on three things: the size of the tenderloin, how you want to serve it, and whether or not you want to cook it to a certain temperature.
For example, if you’re cooking one large pork tenderloin and want it sliced into medallions before serving (which is what I did), then your cooking time could be anywhere from 20 minutes per pound (at 400 degrees Fahrenheit) all the way up until 45 minutes per pound if they’re small enough pieces that they can be eaten whole.
The same goes for preparing an entire roast–the larger the roast gets, the longer it takes for all sides of its surface area come into contact with heat during cooking; therefore increasing its overall cook time in order as well!
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, there are many factors that affect the cooking time of a pork tenderloin. The best way to ensure that your meat is cooked properly is to follow these guidelines and pay attention to what happens during the cooking process.