How Long to Smoke a 3 Pound Pork Tenderloin – A Detailed Guide

If you’re looking to fire up your smoker for a delicious pork dish, tenderloin is a fantastic option. With its lean, tender texture and ability to take on bold flavors, it’s no wonder smoked pork tenderloin is such a crowd-pleaser. But when it comes to smoking times, how long should you plan for a 3 pound tenderloin?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about smoking a 3 pound pork tenderloin from start to finish.

Overview of Smoking Times

For a 3 pound tenderloin you can expect the total smoking time to be

• 1 to 1.5 hours at 225-250°F

This will allow the interior to reach the safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F while still remaining juicy and tender.

The exact time can vary based on a few factors

• Your specific smoker and how well it holds steady heat
• The shape and thickness of your particular tenderloin
• If you’re cooking multiple tenderloins vs a single piece

But in most cases, you can bank on around 1 hour 15 minutes for a nicely smoked 3 pound tenderloin.

Why Tenderloin Cooks Faster Than Other Pork

Pork tenderloin has a faster smoking time than other larger cuts like shoulder or loin for two main reasons:

1. The small, elongated shape – With a slim, tapered profile, heat can penetrate quickly to the middle.

2. Extremely lean with little fat – Less intramuscular fat means it cooks faster since there’s no melting fat to slow heat conduction.

These characteristics allow the tenderloin to absorb smoke rapidly while avoiding overcooking.

Step-by-Step Smoking Instructions

Here is a simple step-by-step process for smoking a 3 pound pork tenderloin:

1. Trim excess fat & silverskin – This helps prevent flare-ups while allowing smoke to better penetrate the meat.

2. Apply dry rub – Coat all sides with seasoning like brown sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Preheat smoker to 225-250°F – Use your desired wood chips like hickory, apple, cherry.

4. Place tenderloin on middle rack – Make sure there’s adequate airflow around the meat.

5. Smoke for 60-90 minutes – Flip tenderloin halfway through for even cooking.

6. Check internal temp – Once it reaches 145°F, it’s ready to remove.

7. Let rest 10 minutes – This allows juices to redistribute through the meat.

And you’ll have perfectly smoked, juicy pork tenderloin ready to serve!

Choosing the Right Wood for Flavor

The wood you choose impacts the flavor profile. Here are some top wood options:

• Hickory – Bold, smoky, bacon-like flavor. A classic pairing with pork.

• Apple – Subtler and sweeter smoke flavor. Works well with pork.

• Cherry – Fruity, mellow smoke notes. Balances the pork nicely.

• Oak – Stronger smoke flavor that holds up to the pork.

• Pecan – Rich and nutty undertones. Complements pork wonderfully.

Experiment to find your favorites, or use a blend for more complex flavor.

Handy Smoking Tips

• Brine it first – Soaking in a saltwater brine ensures extra juicy, seasoned meat.

• Pat dry before smoking – Remove excess moisture so rub adheres well for maximum flavoring.

• Brown sugar in rub – Helps form a crispy, caramelized bark during smoking.

• Use a meat thermometer – Insert into thickest area without touching bone to test doneness.

• Let rest before slicing – Gives time for juices to redistribute so they don’t leak out when cut.

What if You’re Short on Smoking Time?

For rushed occasions, you can shorten the smoking time a bit by:

• Smoking at a higher 250°F temp to speed cooking

• Cutting tenderloin into smaller pieces so it smokes faster

• Partially precooking in the oven first before a shorter smoking time

While quick-smoked tenderloin won’t have quite as much depth of flavor, it’s still tasty in a pinch!

Serving Ideas for Smoked Pork Tenderloin

Smoked pork tenderloin is extremely versatile. Here are some mouthwatering ways to serve it up:

• Slice thinly for sandwiches or tacos

• Dice for salads, pasta, or rice bowls

• Pair with grilled peaches, pineapple, or mango salsa

• Serve with bold sauces like chimichurri, mole, barbecue

• Toss tenderloin medallions in stir fries or fried rice

With its adaptability, smoked pork tenderloin makes both easy family meals and impressive dinner party dishes.

Storing Leftover Smoked Pork Tenderloin

Like any cooked meat, leftover smoked pork tenderloin should be refrigerated within two hours. Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It also freezes well in freezer bags or airtight containers for 2-3 months.

Reheat gently to preserve moisture and avoid drying out the meat. Enjoy smoked pork tenderloin in soups, casseroles, pasta dishes, and more!

The Takeaway

For optimal smoking time with a 3 pound pork tenderloin, plan on around 1 to 1 1/2 hours smoking time. Use a thermometer, select flavorful wood chips, and employ brining and resting techniques for the very best results.

With its quick cook time, adaptable flavor, and easy preparation, smoked pork tenderloin makes a fantastic choice for your next backyard barbeque or family dinner.