Beginner’s Guide: How To Grill Pork Tenderloin On Gas Grill With Easy Tips

Grilling pork tenderloin on a gas grill is a culinary delight that can elevate any summer gathering. This lean and flavorful cut of meat boasts a tender texture and a rich, juicy taste. With the right technique and a few simple ingredients, you can achieve perfectly grilled pork tenderloin that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Choosing the Right Pork Tenderloin

The first step to grilling a succulent pork tenderloin is selecting the perfect cut. Look for a tenderloin that is firm to the touch, with no signs of bruising or discoloration. The weight should be between 1 and 1.5 pounds, which will yield 4-6 servings.

Preparing the Pork Tenderloin

Once you have chosen your pork tenderloin, it’s time to prepare it for grilling. Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the surface. You can also butterfly the tenderloin by slicing it lengthwise almost all the way through and opening it up like a book. This will help it cook evenly and absorb more marinade.

Seasoning the Pork Tenderloin

The key to flavorful grilled pork tenderloin lies in the seasoning. There are endless possibilities when it comes to seasoning, so feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and marinades.

• Dry Rub: A simple dry rub made with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika will enhance the natural flavor of the pork.
• Marinade: Marinating the pork tenderloin overnight in a flavorful liquid, such as olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices, will infuse it with extra moisture and flavor.

Grilling the Pork Tenderloin

Now it’s time for the grilling magic! Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.

• Direct Grilling: Place the seasoned pork tenderloin directly over the hot grill grates. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
• Indirect Grilling: If your grill has a two-zone setup, grill the pork tenderloin over the indirect heat zone. This will help prevent overcooking and ensure even cooking. Grill for 15-18 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Resting the Pork Tenderloin

Once the pork tenderloin has reached its desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy texture.

Serving the Pork Tenderloin

Slice the rested pork tenderloin into medallions and serve immediately. You can accompany it with a variety of sides, such as grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Enhancing Your Grilling Experience

• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked pork tenderloin, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
• Avoid overcooking: Overcooked pork tenderloin will become dry and tough. Remove it from the grill when it reaches the desired internal temperature.
• Experiment with marinades: Don’t be afraid to try different marinades to find the one that suits your taste preferences.
• Pair with complementary sides: Grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, and fresh salads are all excellent accompaniments to grilled pork tenderloin.

Embark on Your Grilling Adventure

Grilling pork tenderloin on a gas grill is a simple yet rewarding culinary experience. By following these steps and experimenting with different seasonings and marinades, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will become a staple in your grilling repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your grill, and prepare to savor the succulent flavors of grilled pork tenderloin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long should I grill pork tenderloin for?
A: Grill the pork tenderloin for 10-12 minutes over direct heat or 15-18 minutes over indirect heat, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Q: Can I marinate pork tenderloin for too long?
A: Yes, marinating pork tenderloin for more than 24 hours can make it mushy.

Q: What temperature should I grill pork tenderloin to?
A: Grill pork tenderloin to an internal temperature of 145°F, measured with a meat thermometer.

Q: How do I prevent pork tenderloin from drying out?
A: Marinating the pork tenderloin and resting it after grilling will help prevent it from drying out.

Q: Can I grill pork tenderloin on a charcoal grill?
A: Yes, you can grill pork tenderloin on a charcoal grill. Follow the same steps, adjusting the cooking time as needed.