How To Cook Costco Pork Tenderloin To Perfection: A Complete Guide

Pork tenderloin is one of the most versatile and delicious cuts of meat you can buy at Costco. It’s affordable, lean, and with the right prep and cooking method, can be unbelievably juicy and flavorful. But how exactly should you cook that beautiful pork tenderloin from Costco? Follow this complete guide and you’ll be able to cook Costco pork tenderloin to absolute perfection every time.

Selecting the Perfect Pork Tenderloin at Costco

The first step to pork tenderloin success is choosing the right package at Costco. Here’s what to look for:

• Color – You want the meat to be pinkish-red in color with some marbling (little white streaks of fat). This marbling is important because fat equals flavor! Avoid any meat that looks too pale or has dark spots.

• Weight – Tenderloins at Costco typically range from 3⁄4 pound to 11⁄2 pounds. Check the weight to make sure it suits your needs.

• Ingredients – Costco pork is minimally processed with no artificial ingredients, which is ideal.

• Use-by date – Be sure to check this and plan to cook within a few days of purchasing.

Selecting the right tenderloin sets you up for success from the start

Grilling Method for Juicy, Flavorful Pork

Grilling is hands-down one of the best ways to cook Costco pork tenderloin The high heat helps develop a gorgeous crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Here are some tips

• Marinate first – Soak the pork in a marinade for at least 30 minutes beforehand, The acid helps tenderize the meat

• Use high heat – Crank your grill up to the highest heat possible. You want those grill marks!

• Cook 8 minutes per side – Resist the urge to flip too often. Just cook for 8 minutes on each side.

• Let it rest – After grilling, let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute so your meat stays nice and moist. Perfection!

Oven Roasting Method for Maximum Flavor

Another stellar way to cook Costco pork tenderloin is to oven roast it. Roasting concentrates the flavors and allows you to add aromatics for more dimension.

• Make a spice rub – For the pork, combine smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and a touch of cinnamon.

• Coat with oil – Rub the spice mix all over the pork along with some olive oil to help it brown.

• Roast at 375oF – Place tenderloin on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145oF.

• Rest and slice – Let pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing into 1⁄2 inch pieces.

The spices and oven heat work together to make seriously succulent, flavor-packed pork.

Sear-and-Bake Method for Bistro-Worthy Results

This technique uses a hot pan to sear the pork, then finishes cooking gently in the oven. It yields a crisp crust and gorgeously moist interior.

• Season generously – Coat all sides of the tenderloin with kosher salt and cracked pepper.

• Sear in a hot pan – Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a skillet over high heat. Add pork and sear until browned, about 1 minute per side.

• Transfer to oven – Place the seared pork in a 375oF oven and bake 15-18 minutes until internal temp is 145oF.

• Rest then serve – Let pork rest 5 minutes before slicing for maximum juiciness.

This sear-and-bake method makes your Costco pork ultra tender and packed with flavor.

Tips for Foolproof Pork Tenderloin

Cooking up flawless pork tenderloin from Costco is easy when you follow these handy tips:

• Always use a meat thermometer – this guarantees the pork reaches a safe 165oF internal temperature.

• Marinate for added flavor and tenderness – 30 minutes minimum.

• Let roasted or grilled pork rest before slicing – this allows juices to redistribute so meat stays succulent.

• Cut against the grain when slicing – helps make the pork extra tender to chew.

• Avoid overcooking – 145oF internal temp results in perfect rosy pork.

Follow these tips and your Costco pork tenderloin will come out tender, juicy, and full of flavor every single time.

Fun Recipe Ideas for Pork Tenderloin

Beyond the basic grilling, roasting and searing methods, there are so many fun ways to use up your Costco pork tenderloin. Here are just a few recipe ideas to try:

• Pork Medallions – Slice tenderloin into rounds, coat in breadcrumbs and pan fry in olive oil 2 minutes per side.

• Thai Pork Lettuce Wraps – Thinly slice grilled pork and serve in lettuce cups with spicy peanut dipping sauce.

• Balsamic Pork Tenderloin – Roast pork coated in a balsamic vinegar glaze for a sweet tangy flavor.

• Pesto-Stuffed Pork – Butterfly pork tenderloin open, fill with pesto, bacon and cheese then roll and bake.

• Pork Tenderloin Sandwiches – Grill or pan sear pork, slice, and serve on buns with your favorite toppings.

The possibilities are endless when cooking with pork tenderloin!

When perfectly cooked, pork tenderloin is one of the most delicious and versatile cuts of meat. With proper selection, preparation and cooking technique, you can easily transform the pork tenderloins from Costco into restaurant-quality dishes. Use this complete guide to become a pork tenderloin pro! Your family and friends will be begging for the recipe anytime you cook up this satisfying and budget-friendly meat.