
Mastering pork tenderloin on a Blackstone griddle delivers tender, juicy results with smoky char. The high heat creates a perfect sear while keeping the inside moist.
I developed this method after years of trial and error, learning that the key is preheating the griddle properly. A simple dry rub enhances the natural pork flavor without overpowering it.
The griddle’s even heat ensures consistent cooking, producing slices with a caramelized crust and a soft, succulent center. This technique transforms a simple cut into a restaurant-worthy main course.
Serve with seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The process is straightforward yet yields impressive results every time.
Ingredients for Pork Tenderloin Recipe on Blackstone Griddle
A handful of pantry staples and fresh herbs elevate this griddle-cooked pork tenderloin beautifully.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pork Tenderloin 🥩 | 1 ½ lb | Trimmed of excess fat |
| Kosher Salt 🧂 | 1 ½ tsp | Diamond Crystal preferred |
| Black Pepper 🌶️ | 1 tsp | Freshly ground for best flavor |
| Smoked Paprika 🌶️ | 1 tsp | Sweet or hot variety |
| Garlic Powder 🧄 | 1 tsp | Not garlic salt |
| Onion Powder 🧅 | 1 tsp | Fine ground preferred |
| Dried Thyme 🌿 | ½ tsp | Crushed between fingers |
| Olive Oil 🫒 | 2 tbsp | High smoke point variety |
| Yellow Onion 🧅 | 1 whole | Medium-sized, thinly sliced |
| Red Bell Pepper 🌶️ | 1 whole | Cored, seeded, sliced |
| Fresh Rosemary 🌿 | 2 sprigs | Leaves stripped, roughly chopped |
| Unsalted Butter 🧈 | 2 tbsp | For basting while cooking |
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The pork tenderloin must be high-quality for optimal results. Whole Foods or butcher shops offer the best cuts—look for even marbling and a pinkish-red hue. The dry rub ingredients should be freshly opened; old spices lose potency quickly. A Blackstone griddle is ideal, but a heavy cast-iron skillet works as a backup (though heat distribution won’t be as even).
No smoked paprika? Regular paprika plus a pinch of cayenne mimics the depth. Fresh garlic can replace powder at a 3:1 ratio, but minced finely first. If red bell peppers aren’t available, green or orange work, though they’ll add a slightly different sweetness. For a more herbaceous finish, fresh sage or thyme can join the rosemary.
Store pork tenderloin in its original packaging in the coldest part of the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for 6 months. The dry rub keeps indefinitely in an airtight container. Fresh rosemary lasts about 1 week wrapped in damp paper towels in the fridge.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One Pan Wonder: That Blackstone griddle means I’m cooking and serving from the same surface—no extra dishes, just juicy pork.
- Smoky Depth: The smoked paprika and garlic powder give it that rich, almost barbecue-like flavor without firing up a smoker.
- Feeds the Crew: A single tenderloin stretches to serve four with sides, and it’s just as good sliced into sandwiches the next day.
- 20-Minute Dinner: Honestly, I can season, sear, and rest this faster than it takes to preheat the oven.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pork Tenderloin on Blackstone Griddle
Here’s the method for achieving tender, juicy pork with smoky char on your griddle.
Step 1: Season the Pork Tenderloin
Pat the 1.5 lb Pork Tenderloin dry with paper towels to ensure an even sear. In a small bowl, combine the 1.5 tsp Kosher Salt, 1 tsp Black Pepper, 1 tsp Smoked Paprika, 1 tsp Garlic Powder, 1 tsp Onion Powder, and 0.5 tsp Dried Thyme. Rub this mixture over the pork, pressing it into the surface for maximum adhesion.
This dry brine not only seasons the meat but also helps create a beautiful crust. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes while you prepare the griddle and vegetables. The seasoning will penetrate the surface, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Step 2: Prep Vegetables and Preheat the Griddle
Thinly slice the 1 whole Yellow Onion and slice the 1 whole Red Bell Pepper into strips. Strip the leaves from the 2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary and roughly chop them. These aromatics will complement the pork beautifully.
Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat until it’s ripping hot—a drop of water should sizzle and evaporate immediately. This high heat is crucial for developing that sought-after char while keeping the inside juicy.
Step 3: Cook the Pork Tenderloin
Drizzle the 2 tbsp Olive Oil over the griddle and spread it evenly. Place the seasoned pork tenderloin on the griddle. Sear it for 4-5 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms. Add the 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter and baste the pork with it as it cooks, along with the chopped rosemary.
For even cooking, rotate the pork 90 degrees halfway through each side to create crosshatch grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for perfect doneness. Remove the pork from the griddle and let it rest under a loose foil tent for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
On the same griddle, add the sliced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until they soften and develop light char marks. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, but allow some pieces to caramelize for added depth of flavor.
The residual fond from the pork will infuse the vegetables with savory richness. Once they reach your desired tenderness, transfer them to a serving platter alongside the rested pork tenderloin.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Slice the pork tenderloin against the grain into ½-inch thick medallions. The juices should pool slightly on the cutting board, indicating perfect doneness. Arrange the slices over the sautéed vegetables on the platter.
Serve immediately while hot. The combination of smoky char from the griddle, tender pork, and caramelized vegetables creates a dish that’s both rustic and refined. Every bite should deliver juicy meat with a satisfying crust.
Pro Tips For Making Pork Tenderloin Recipe On Blackstone Griddle
- Preheat the Griddle: Get that Blackstone screaming hot—at least 400°F—before the pork hits the surface. I learned this the hard way after my first few attempts stuck and tore.
- Dry the Pork: Pat the tenderloin completely dry with paper towels before seasoning. Sounds weird, but it works: the spice rub sticks better and you’ll get a real crust.
- Skip the Overcrowding: Leave space between pieces if cooking multiple tenderloins—steam from crowded meat will boil it instead of searing. After burning three batches, I finally figured this out.
- Rest Before Slicing: Tent the pork with foil and give it a solid 10 minutes before cutting. My grandmother swore by this, and she was right: it keeps all the juices inside where they belong.
Best Sauces and Condiments for pork tenderloin recipe on blackstone griddle
Classic Chimichurri
This vibrant green sauce cuts through the richness of the pork beautifully. I blend 1 cup fresh parsley, 4 garlic cloves, ¼ cup red wine vinegar, and ½ cup olive oil with a pinch of red pepper flakes. The acidity brightens each bite. 🌿
Sweet Heat Glaze
Mix ½ cup honey with 2 tbsp sriracha and 1 tbsp soy sauce for a sticky, spicy-sweet coating. Brush it on during the last 2 minutes of cooking. The heat caramelizes the glaze into a glossy finish.
Creamy Garlic Sauce
Whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp Dijon mustard. This cool, tangy sauce balances the smoky char perfectly.
Balsamic Reduction
Simmer 1 cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tbsp brown sugar until syrupy. Drizzle over sliced pork for a sophisticated touch. The reduction adds a fruity depth that pairs wonderfully with the pork’s natural sweetness.
Herb Butter Finish
Soften 4 tbsp butter and mix with 1 tbsp chopped rosemary and 1 minced garlic clove. Dollop on warm slices for a luxurious melt. This was my grandmother’s trick for special occasions. ✨
Spicy Mustard
Combine 3 tbsp whole-grain mustard with 1 tbsp honey and ½ tsp cayenne. The coarse texture and kick complement the tender pork without overpowering it.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the griddle is hot enough?
Sprinkle a few water droplets on the surface. If they dance and evaporate immediately, it’s ready. Aim for medium-high heat to achieve that perfect sear.
Can I use a different cut of pork?
Tenderloin works best, but pork loin can be used if sliced into 1-inch thick cutlets. Avoid fatty cuts like shoulder—they won’t cook evenly on the griddle.
Why is my pork dry inside?
Likely overcooked. Pull it off at 145°F internal temperature, then tent with foil for 10 minutes. The carryover heat will finish the cooking while retaining juices.
Do I need to marinate the pork?
A dry rub as described works perfectly. For extra flavor, a 30-minute marinade in olive oil, garlic, and herbs adds depth, but isn’t necessary.
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