How Long to Cook Pork Tenderloin at 200 Degrees for Super Tender and Juicy Meat

Pork tenderloin is a quick-cooking, tender cut of meat that can easily dry out if cooked at too high of a temperature. Cooking it low and slow at around 200°F allows the pork to cook gently while becoming incredibly moist and tender. But how long does it take to cook pork tenderloin at 200 degrees?

In this article we’ll cover everything you need to know including

• Benefits of Cooking at 200°F
• Estimated Cooking Times
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Ensuring Proper Doneness
• Preventing Dryness and Promoting Juiciness
• Seasoning and Flavoring Ideas
• Serving Suggestions
• Storage and Reheating Tips

Follow these tips for fork-tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork tenderloin at 200°F.

Why Cook Pork Tenderloin at 200°F?

Cooking pork tenderloin at the low temperature of 200°F offers several advantages

• Extended cooking gently breaks down connective tissues.
• Keeps the lean meat incredibly moist and juicy.
• Allows time for amazing roasted pork flavor to develop.
• Provides flexibility in cook times without overcooking.
• More margin for error if oven temperature isn’t exact.
• Results in succulent, fall-apart tender pork.

The low 200°F temperature gives the pork time to become sublimely tender without drying out.

Estimated Cooking Times Per Pound at 200°F

For a 1-inch thick pork tenderloin at 200°F, estimate approximately:

• 20-25 minutes per pound
• 1 1/2 – 2 hours total for a 1 lb tenderloin
• 3-4 hours for a 2 lb tenderloin

Always rely on an instant-read thermometer for doneness instead of cook times alone. Pork tenderloins can vary in shape and thickness.

Now let’s go over the step-by-step method.

How to Cook Pork Tenderloin at 200°F – Step-By-Step

Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked pork tenderloin at 200°F.

1. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin

• Start with a 1-3 lb trimmed pork tenderloin.
• Pat dry and coat with oil, then season all over.
• Refrigerate for 30-60 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.

2. Preheat Oven to 200°F

• Preheat oven to 200°F. Use a roasting pan or baking dish.
• The pan should elevate pork to allow airflow for even cooking.

3. Roast the Pork Tenderloin

• Place seasoned pork on prepared pan and insert a meat thermometer.
• Roast at 200°F for approximately 20-25 minutes per pound until thermometer reaches 140-145°F.

4. Rest, Slice and Serve

• Remove pork from oven and tent loosely with foil for 5-10 minutes.
• Allowing it to rest helps retain moisture.
• Slice into medallions and serve!

Be sure to use an instant-read thermometer for perfectly cooked results without overdoing it.

Ensuring Proper Doneness

• Pork is safely cooked and retains juiciness when reaching 140-145°F internally.
• If the temperature exceeds 150°F, it will become dry and overcooked.
• Let the roast rest about 5 minutes before taking the temperature.

Rely on a good digital meat thermometer for perfect doneness rather than cook times.

Preventing Dry Pork and Promoting Juiciness

Pork tenderloin is very lean and can dry out easily. Here are some tips:

• Roast at 200°F – higher temperatures promote drying.
• Baste with pan juices to keep surface moist.
• Lightly tent with foil toward the end if browning too quickly.
• Let rest after cooking so juices redistribute.
• Slice across the grain to prevent toughening.
• Add a sauce, glaze or au jus for extra moisture.

Seasoning and Flavoring Ideas

There are endless options for adding amazing flavor:

• Dry spice rubs – Cajun, jerk, lemon pepper, ranch, etc.
• Fresh herbs – rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano
• Wet marinades – teriyaki, soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar
• Stuff tenderloin with spinach, feta and sun-dried tomatoes
• Coat with mustard and breadcrumbs
• Top with compound butter before cooking
• Inject with broth, wine or fruit juices using a syringe

Serving Suggestions

Pork tenderloin is immensely versatile. Here are some serving ideas:

• Medallions – Elegant entree with sauce
• Sandwiches – Sliced on rolls with toppings
• Sheet pan dinner – With veggies and potatoes
• Salad – Sliced over greens, fruits, nuts, cheese
• Tacos – Chopped or sliced with fixings
• Flatbreads – With caramelized onions, mushrooms
• Grain bowls – Over quinoa, farro, rice, etc.

Get creative with this lean and tender cut of pork!

Storage and Leftovers

• Refrigerate leftovers for 3-4 days
• Freeze extra pork for up to 4 months
• Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop

With proper storage, enjoy succulent 200°F pork tenderloin for days!

• For ideal juiciness, cook at 200°F and use a meat thermometer
• Allow 20-25 minutes per pound as a general guideline
• Prevent drying by retaining moisture before and after cooking
• Infuse pork with delicious flavors from rubs, marinades and injections
• Transform into endless easy meals

By following these tips for roasting pork tenderloin at 200°F, you’ll be able to achieve fork-tender perfection every time. This temperature gives you foolproof results and better margin for error compared to higher temperatures.

Give this method a try for your next flawlessly cooked pork tenderloin!