Pork tenderloin is a lean and tender cut of meat that can easily be overcooked However, with an electric grill and a few simple tips, you can achieve a juicy, flavorful pork tenderloin every time
Benefits of Using an Electric Grill
Electric grills provide consistent heat that is easier to control compared to charcoal or gas grills. The enclosed heating element allows the grill to preheat quickly and recover heat fast when the lid is lifted.
Many electric grills have a lid with a window so you can monitor the progress of your food Some models have a built-in probe thermometer to eliminate temperature guesswork
With an electric grill, you can cook pork tenderloin year-round without having to go outside. The compact size takes up minimal counter space and some models are portable for easy storage.
Choosing the Right Electric Grill
There are open face electric grills like the George Foreman, as well as fully enclosed electric grills like the Cuisinart Griddler. Both styles can be used to cook pork tenderloin.
For best results, choose an electric grill with:
- Adjustable temperature controls
- A high maximum temperature of at least 450°F
- Nonstick, removable grill plates
- A lid to retain heat
If your electric grill only has on/off temperature control, you may need to finish cooking the pork tenderloin in the oven.
Tips for Grilling Pork Tenderloin
Follow these tips for grilling juicy, flavorful pork tenderloin on an electric grill:
1. Allow the meat to come to room temperature
Take the pork tenderloin out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling. This helps the meat cook more evenly.
2. Season the pork tenderloin
Coat all sides of the pork with olive oil or vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Then season generously with salt, pepper, and any additional dry rubs or herbs.
3. Preheat the electric grill
Preheat your electric grill on high heat for at least 10 minutes. Use a infrared thermometer gun to check that the grill surface reaches 400-450°F.
4. Sear the meat
Place the pork tenderloin on the preheated grill. Sear each side for 1-2 minutes until browned. This caramelizes the exterior and locks in juices.
5. Grill covered on medium heat
Turn heat to medium and close the lid to finish cooking, about 8-12 minutes more depending on thickness. Use a digital meat thermometer to check for doneness.
6. Let the meat rest
Once cooked, transfer the pork to a cutting board and tent with foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes so juices can redistribute before slicing.
7. Slice against the grain
Always slice pork tenderloin against the grain. This results in more tender pieces of meat.
How Long Does it Take?
- Searing: 1-2 minutes per side
- Indirect grilling: 8-12 minutes depending on size
- Rest time: 5-10 minutes
So between searing and indirect cooking, plan for 14-18 minutes total cook time. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
Pork tenderloin should reach an internal temperature of 145°F and rest for at least 3 minutes before serving. The meat may appear slightly pink but will be safe to eat.
Common Mistakes
Avoid these common mistakes when grilling pork tenderloin:
- Not searing the meat first
- Cooking on too high heat without the lid
- Not using a meat thermometer
- Overcooking past 150°F internal temperature
- Cutting into the meat before it rests
Any of these errors can lead to a dry, tough pork tenderloin. With an electric grill and the right techniques, you’ll achieve tender, juicy results every time.
Recipes for the Electric Grill
Here are two delicious recipes to try grilling on your electric grill:
Maple Dijon Pork Tenderloin
- 1 pork tenderloin, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
Whisk olive oil, maple syrup, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Coat tenderloin with marinade. Grill using technique above until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Jamaican Jerk Pork Tenderloin
- 1 pork tenderloin, trimmed
- 2 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp allspice
Combine jerk seasoning, lime juice, olive oil, and allspice. Coat tenderloin evenly with marinade. Grill using technique above until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Perfectly Grilled Pork Every Time
Grilling pork tenderloin on an electric grill results in a tender, juicy entrée the whole family will love. With the right equipment, preparation, and technique, you can achieve restaurant-quality results right from your own kitchen.
Cooking Corn and Pork Tenderloin, Weber Lumin Electric Grill
FAQ
How long to grill pork tenderloin on an electric grill?
Should I wrap my pork tenderloin in foil when grilling?