How Long to Cook 2 Pork Tenderloins to Juicy Perfection

Pork tenderloin is a quick cooking and lean cut of meat that makes for a perfect fast weeknight dinner. It can be on the table in under 30 minutes! But figuring out exactly how long to cook pork tenderloin can be tricky especially when making two tenderloins at once.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to perfectly cook two pork tenderloins from start to finish, including:

• Benefits of cooking two tenderloins together
• Key internal temperature for doneness
• How long to cook pork tenderloin at 425°F
• Step-by-step cooking instructions
• Roast pork tenderloin cooking time calculator
• Carryover cooking and resting
• Common mistakes and how to avoid them
• Flavoring ideas for juicy, delicious pork

Let’s get cooking!

Why Cook Two Pork Tenderloins?

Pork tenderloin is shaped long and slender, averaging 1 to 2 pounds each One tenderloin can feed about 2 to 4 people.

Cooking two tenderloins together has advantages

• Feeds more people – better for larger gatherings and families
• More efficient use of oven space
• Cooks evenly – tenderloins act like heat shields for each other
• Easy meal prep – have leftovers ready for lunches and dinners throughout the week

Preparing two tenderloins at once means you’ll have a ready supply of delicious cooked pork on hand.

What Temperature Should Pork Tenderloin Be Cooked To?

The USDA recommends cooking pork to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F to safely destroy bacteria and potential parasites.

For tender, juicy pork tenderloin, cook to an internal temp of 145°F with a quick pan searing at the end to brown the outside. Cooked this way, the pork will be slightly pink inside.

Going past 160°F can lead to dry, tough meat. Always use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temp of pork. The cooking time will vary based on thickness.

How Long to Cook 2 Pork Tenderloins at 425°F

Cooking two pork tenderloins together in the oven at 425°F is a fast, foolproof cooking method.

The high heat helps the exterior brown while quickly bringing the center up to temp. 30 minutes at 425°F is usually sufficient, but let’s break it down in more detail:

• Thinner tenderloins (1 pound): Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes
• Thicker tenderloins (1.5 – 2 pounds): Cook for approximately 20-25 minutes.

The total roasting time will depend on the thickness of each tenderloin. Always rely on a meat thermometer over cook time.

If one tenderloin is thicker than the other, position the thicker one in the center of the pan so it cooks more evenly.

Use an instant read thermometer to check the temperature starting at 15 minutes. Once it reaches 140-145°F, remove immediately from the oven.

Step-by Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for perfect oven-roasted pork tenderloin:

Ingredients:

• 2 pork tenderloins, about 1-2 pounds each
• Olive oil or oil of choice
• Seasonings of choice (salt, pepper, garlic powder, herbs, spice rubs)

Equipment:

• Large rimmed baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Instant read meat thermometer

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.

2. Pat pork tenderloins dry with paper towels. Rub all over with about 1 tbsp oil per tenderloin.

3. Season the pork generously on all sides with desired seasonings.

4. Place tenderloins on a foil-lined baking sheet. Position thicker tenderloin in center if needed.

5. Roast at 425°F for 15-20 minutes if tenderloins are 1 pound. For 1.5-2 pounds, roast 20-25 minutes.

6. Check temperature starting at 15 minutes. Remove immediately from oven when internal temp reaches 140-145°F.

7. Optional: Quickly sear tenderloins in a hot skillet 2-3 minutes per side to brown exterior.

8. Let rest 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Use this reliable roast method for tender, juicy pork tenderloin every time!

Pork Tenderloin Cooking Time Calculator

Use this handy calculator to estimate the cooking time for 2 pork tenderloins based on weight. Always verify with a meat thermometer.

Carryover Cooking and Resting

When you remove pork tenderloin from the oven, the internal temperature will continue rising by about 5-10°F, called carryover cooking.

To prevent overcooking, take pork out just under your target temp – remove at 140°F for 145°F.

Resting is important too. Let pork rest at least 5 minutes, up to 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute for tender, juicy meat. Pork can be lightly tented with foil while resting.

Common Pork Tenderloin Mistakes

It’s easy to dry out or overcook this quick cooking cut. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Cooking past 145°F internal temp
• Skipping temperature check and relying on time
• Not resting before slicing
• Browning too early – sear at the end
• Crowding pan with too many tenderloins

As long as you monitor temperature, don’t overcook, and let it rest, you’ll achieve tender juicy pork.

Flavoring Ideas

Plain roasted pork tenderloin is delicious, but you can also kick up the flavor with:

• Dry spice rubs – chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika
• Fresh herbs – rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano
• Wet marinades – soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, citrus
• Compound butters under the skin or on top

Get creative with global spice blends, chutneys, sauces, and more to customize your roast pork.

Perfect Pairings for Pork Tenderloin

Pork tenderloin is so versatile! Here are some our favorite meals to serve it with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
• Rice pilaf or risotto
• Roasted vegetables – cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, squash, carrots
• Green salad or spinach salad
• Fresh bread or rolls

And for easy weeknight meal prep, slice up leftovers to top salads, make sandwiches, frittatas or stir fry.

Cooking two pork tenderloins together makes for a quick and easy weeknight meal for a crowd. Roasting at a high temp like 425°F ensures tender juicy meat when sliced.

Monitor temperature carefully, since pork dries out easily when overcooked. Rest before slicing and add bold flavors with rubs, herbs and marinades.