Tenderloin is known for its mild flavor and tender texture, making it a popular choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Cooking tenderloin in the oven is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this versatile cut of meat. If you want to know how to cook tenderloin in an oven with foil, keep reading, as we have a perfect recipe.
Why you should cook tenderloin in the oven with foil
Although there are several ways you can cook a juicy tenderloin, cooking tenderloin in the oven with foil is a great option for those who want a delicious and effortless meal. There are several reasons why cooking tenderloin in the oven with foil is a great choice:
- Retains Moisture: Cooking tenderloin in the oven with foil helps to retain moisture, resulting in a juicy and tender cut of meat. This is because the foil is a barrier, preventing the meat from drying out during the cooking process.
- Flavor Infusion: When cooking tenderloin with foil, you can add herbs, spices, and other flavorful ingredients directly to the foil, allowing the flavors to infuse into the meat as it cooks. This results in a delicious and aromatic dish that is sure to impress.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking tenderloin with foil makes for easy cleanup as you have to dispose of the foil after cooking. No more scrubbing pots and pans or dealing with tough-to-clean baked-on food.
- Versatile Cooking: Cooking tenderloin with foil is a versatile cooking method that can be adapted to suit your tastes and preferences. You can add different seasonings, sauces, or other ingredients to the foil to create a unique and flavorful dish every time.
How to cook tenderloin in oven with foil – tips to remember
Here are a few tips for cooking tenderloin in the oven with foil:
- It is important to use high-quality or heavy-duty foil when cooking tenderloin in the oven, as cheaper foils can tear or puncture easily, resulting in undercooked or dried-out meat.
- Season it generously before cooking to ensure that your tenderloin is full of flavor. Salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs are all great options.
- To avoid overcooking your tenderloin, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the meat as it cooks. Aim for a temperature of 145°F for medium-rare or 160°F for well-done.
- After removing the tenderloin from the oven, allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to distribute evenly throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more tender cut.
- Try experimenting with different flavors and ingredients when cooking tenderloin in the oven with foil. Add a mixture of herbs and spices, a splash of wine, or even a drizzle of honey to create a unique and delicious dish.
What to serve with tenderloin
Here are some of the best dishes to serve with tenderloin in the oven with foil:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes are a great addition to any tenderloin meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish perfect for soaking up the rich and juicy flavors of the tenderloin. The potatoes’ creaminess balances the meat’s richness, making for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Baked sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious side dish that pairs perfectly with tenderloin. The sweetness of the potatoes complements the tenderloin’s savory flavors, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.
- Salad: A simple green salad is a great way to add freshness and crunch to your meal. A classic Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing would be a perfect addition to your tenderloin dinner.
How to store tenderloin
Here are the steps for storing tenderloin in the oven with foil:
- Once the cooked meat cools down completely, wrap it in a high-quality foil, covering it completely and sealing it tightly.
- Place the wrapped tenderloin in an airtight container or plastic bag.
- Store the container or plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can also place the packaged tenderloin in the freezer. It will last for up to 3 months.
How to Cook Tenderloin in Oven with Foil
- Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 lb. pork tenderloin
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 4 tbsp. Butter
- ¼ tsp. Cumin
- ½ tsp. red chili flakes
- 1 tsp. Italian Seasoning
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 Lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and preheat it to 400°F so it can warm up.
- Take two pieces of foil and place one pork tenderloin in the center of each piece. Lightly brush the pork with olive oil.
- Mix paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the pork, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, and place a few slabs of butter on top of the foil.
- Wrap the foil around the pork, sealing it tightly. Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Open the foil packets and place the pork under the broiler for 3-4 minutes to brown the surface.
- Once the pork is ready, remove it from the oven, slice it, and serve.
How to Cook Tenderloin in Oven with Foil
Preparation time: 5 minutes; Cooking Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 lb. pork tenderloin
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 4 tbsp. Butter
- ¼ tsp. Cumin
- ½ tsp. red chili flakes
- 1 tsp. Italian Seasoning
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 Lemon juiced
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and preheat it to 400°F so it can warm up.
- Take two pieces of foil and place one pork tenderloin in the center of each piece. Lightly brush the pork with olive oil.
- Mix paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the pork, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, and place a few slabs of butter on top of the foil.
- Wrap the foil around the pork, sealing it tightly. Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Open the foil packets and place the pork under the broiler for 3-4 minutes to brown the surface.
- Once the pork is ready, remove it from the oven, slice it, and serve.