When it comes to preparing pork tenderloin in the oven, there are some questions that come up time and time again. One of the most common is: how long to cook pork tenderloin in oven at 350 degrees? Though cooking times can differ for various reasons, with this guide we’ll provide you with an approximate cooking time as well as any preparation steps you need to take before putting your pork in the oven. Armed with this information, you’ll be able to prepare delicious and perfectly cooked pork tenderloin every single time.
Contents
- 1 What Is Pork Tenderloin?
- 2 How To Choose A Good Pork Tenderloin?
- 3 What Is The Best Temperature To Cook Pork Tenderloin In The Oven?
- 4 How Long To Cook Pork Tenderloin In Oven At 350?
- 5 How Long To Cook Frozen Pork Tenderloin In Oven At 350?
- 6 How Long To Cook 5 Pounds Of Pork Tenderloin In The Oven At 350?
- 7 How To Tell If Pork Tenderloin Is Done?
- 8 How To Cook Pork Tenderloin In Oven?
- 9 Tips Cooking Pork Tenderloin In Oven
- 10 How To Preserve Pork Loin?
- 11 Other Pork Tenderloin Recipes
- 12 FAQ: Pork Tenderloin
- 12.1 Is it better to cook pork tenderloin fast or slow?
- 12.2 Should pork tenderloin be baked covered or uncovered?
- 12.3 Why is my pork tenderloin tough?
- 12.4 Can you wrap pork tenderloin in foil?
- 12.5 What is the difference between pork loin and pork tenderloin?
- 12.6 Should I slice pork tenderloin before cooking?
- 12.7 Which is more expensive pork loin or pork tenderloin?
- 12.8 Is it better to cook a pork tenderloin at 350 or 400?
- 12.9 Should pork tenderloin be at 350 or 375?
- 12.10 Is it better to cook pork tenderloin on high heat or low heat?
- 13 Conclusion: How Long To Cook Pork Tenderloin In Oven At 350
What Is Pork Tenderloin?
Pork tenderloin is a lean, juicy cut of pork that comes from the muscle tissue along the back of the animal. It’s typically sold in two- to three-pound packages and can be roasted, grilled, or pan-seared.
The leaner nature of pork tenderloin makes it a better choice than other cuts of pork, as it is lower in saturated fat and cholesterol. It also has a mild flavor that works well with a variety of recipes.

How To Choose A Good Pork Tenderloin?
When choosing a pork tenderloin, look for one that is pale pink in color and firm to the touch. It should also be free of any discoloration or unusual smells. The fat content should also be evenly distributed throughout the cut of meat. Finally, check for any visible signs of bruising before purchasing the pork tenderloin.
What Is The Best Temperature To Cook Pork Tenderloin In The Oven?
When cooking pork tenderloin in the oven, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). The best way to ensure that this temperature is reached is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the pork tenderloin and cook until it reaches 145°F (63°C). To prevent overcooking, it’s best to remove the pork tenderloin from the oven at 140°F (60°C) as it will continue cooking after being removed.
How Long To Cook Pork Tenderloin In Oven At 350?
When it comes to how long to cook pork tenderloin in oven at 350 degrees, the general rule of thumb is 25 minutes per pound. For example, if you have a two-pound pork tenderloin, you would need to cook it for around 50 minutes total. If your piece of meat is thicker than one inch, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
To ensure that your pork tenderloin is cooked through, you should use an instant-read thermometer; when it reaches 145°F, you can remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
How Long To Cook Frozen Pork Tenderloin In Oven At 350?
“How long to cook pork tenderloin in oven at 350?” If you’re using a frozen pork tenderloin, the cooking time will be longer. You’ll want to allow for around 40 minutes per pound of meat. So for a two-pound frozen pork tenderloin, your total cook time would be around 80 minutes. Again, it’s important to use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the pork has reached 145°F before serving.

How Long To Cook 5 Pounds Of Pork Tenderloin In The Oven At 350?
If you’re cooking five pounds of pork tenderloin in the oven at 350 degrees, you will need to allow for 125 minutes total. As always, check the internal temperature of the meat with a thermometer to ensure it has reached 145°F (63°C) before removing from the oven and letting it rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
How To Tell If Pork Tenderloin Is Done?
The best way to tell if pork tenderloin is done is by using an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat and check that it has reached 145°F (63°C). Once it reaches this temperature, you can take it out of the oven and let it rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
When properly cooked, pork tenderloin will be juicy with a light pink color throughout. Undercooked pork tenderloin may appear grey and will have an unpleasant texture – so make sure to double check with the thermometer before serving!
How To Cook Pork Tenderloin In Oven?
Cooking pork tenderloin in the oven is easy and straightforward. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Then, place the pork in a roasting pan or baking dish. If desired, season with salt and pepper or your favorite herbs and spices. Roast for 25 minutes per pound of meat, or until the internal temperature has reached 145°F (63°C). Finally, let the pork rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Once you know how long to cook pork tenderloin in oven at 350. Read on for tips on cooking even better pork loin.
Tips Cooking Pork Tenderloin In Oven
- Make sure to remove the pork from the oven at 140°F (60°C) as it will continue cooking after being removed.
- When cooking frozen pork tenderloin, allow for 40 minutes per pound of meat.
- To ensure that the pork has been cooked through, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part and check that it has reached 145°F.
- Use herbs and spices to season the pork before cooking for extra flavor.
- Let the cooked pork rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
How To Preserve Pork Loin?
Once cooked, pork loin can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer. To store in the refrigerator, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container. It should keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
To store pork loin in the freezer, you will need to wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or freezer paper, then place in a freezer bag. Properly wrapped pork loin should keep for up to 6 months in the freezer.

Other Pork Tenderloin Recipes
Once you’ve mastered how to cook pork tenderloin in the oven, why not try some other recipes? From simple grilled pork tenderloin to slow cooker pork chops, there are so many delicious ways to enjoy this lean and flavorful cut of meat.
For even more meal ideas, explore our selection of easy pork recipes! With a few pantry staples, you can transform pork into a delicious and nutritious dinner.
FAQ: Pork Tenderloin
Is it better to cook pork tenderloin fast or slow?
Pork loin and pork tenderloin are two very different cuts of meat, which require distinct cooking methods. Slow roasting is the key to preparing a succulent cut of pork loin that is so irresistibly juicy it will melt in your mouth. On the other hand, if you’re looking for speed over flavor when making this delectable dish, then crank up those temperatures – anything between 350 degrees F and 425 degrees F.
Should pork tenderloin be baked covered or uncovered?
Don’t be tempted to wrap your baking dish in aluminum foil – instead keep an eye on the internal temperature of your juicy pork tenderloin with a meat thermometer. Lean cuts are easily dried out, so it’s important not to overcook and enjoy succulent results.
Why is my pork tenderloin tough?
Tender pork tenderloin has an unexpected surprise – a thin silver layer of connective tissue. Despite cooking, this protective coating doesn’t dissolve, making it incredibly chewy and adding another dimension to the favorite meal.
Can you wrap pork tenderloin in foil?
Bake a tenderloin wrapped up in foil and enhanced by mustard sauce for 25 minutes. Accompany it with savory sides such as acini di pepe or broccoli, creating an impressive feast that’s sure to please your family or guests.
What is the difference between pork loin and pork tenderloin?
Pork loin and pork tenderloin may have similar names, but they are vastly different cuts of meat. Pork tenderloins come from a long muscle that runs along the backbone while pork loins can be found boneless or with bones still attached – these tend to wider, flatter pieces perfect for roasting or grilling!
Should I slice pork tenderloin before cooking?
Instead of spending 40 minutes waiting for a tenderloin to cook, slice it into pieces and enjoy an even quicker meal! Start at the tapered end, then cut on a slight diagonal so each piece is evenly sized. Enjoy your delicious dinner in no time.
Which is more expensive pork loin or pork tenderloin?
Pork tenderloin meat is a delicious and more expensive cut than pork loin, boasting an irresistibly mild flavor. Its unique dark color makes it stand out at the grocery store—the average price of these succulent slices for $2.99 to $3.99 per pound.
Is it better to cook a pork tenderloin at 350 or 400?
Achieve perfectly cooked, juicy pork tenderloin by following this simple guideline: bake it at 350°F for approximately 25 minutes per pound. This method guarantees that the interior cooks to the safe temperature of 145°F, without overcooking the exterior. For even more mouth-watering results, cook at 400°F for a reduced time. You can’t go wrong with this foolproof technique.
Should pork tenderloin be at 350 or 375?
For perfectly cooked pork tenderloin, aim for a cooking temperature of 350°F. To ensure it’s safe to eat, the internal temperature should reach at least 145°F, which generally takes about 25 minutes per pound. If you’re roasting a bigger cut like pork shoulder or butt, crank up the temperature to 375°F to ensure it’s cooked all the way through. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer before serving, to ensure it’s cooked to perfection.
Is it better to cook pork tenderloin on high heat or low heat?
For the perfect pork tenderloin, low heat is key. By cooking this cut of meat slowly, you’ll avoid overcooking and ending up with a dry, unappetizing meal. We recommend baking at a temperature of 350°F for 25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. This method guarantees juicy, savory and utterly satisfying results.
Conclusion: How Long To Cook Pork Tenderloin In Oven At 350
Cooking pork tenderloin in the oven at 350 degrees is easy and straightforward. All you need to do is preheat your oven, season the meat, roast for 25 minutes per pound, then check the internal temperature with a thermometer before serving. You can also preserve cooked pork loin by storing it in the refrigerator or freezer. For more meal ideas, explore our selection of easy pork recipes! With a few pantry staples and a little bit of time, you can enjoy juicy and delicious pork tenderloin any night of the week.

Michael J. Fanola is the chef and owner of Joe’s French Italian Inn Restaurants. He has over 30 years of culinary experience, and his restaurants have been voted “Best Italian Restaurant” by the readers of the Staten Island Advance for many years in a row. Michael is a graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, and he has worked in some of the most highly acclaimed kitchens in the country.