How Long to Smoke a 3 Pound Pork Tenderloin for Maximum Flavor

Pork tenderloin is a lean, tender cut of meat that takes beautifully to smoking. With the right technique, you can achieve a juicy, flavorful smoked pork tenderloin that will be the star of your meal. But how long should you smoke a 3 pound pork tenderloin?

The general rule of thumb is to smoke pork tenderloin for 30 minutes per pound at 225-250°F. This means a 3 pound tenderloin will take about 1.5 hours to reach the ideal internal temperature of 145°F. Smoking times can vary a bit depending on the particulars of your smoker, so it’s always smart to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Here is a detailed guide to achieving tender, juicy smoked pork tenderloin:

Choosing the Right Size

• Pork tenderloins are long, thin cuts that weigh 1-2 pounds each.
• Look for tenderloins that are 1.5-2 pounds each to serve 3-4 people.
• Three pounds is a nice size for feeding 6-8 people.

Preparing the Tenderloin

• Choose tenderloins with a nice pink color and healthy fat marbling.
• Trim off excess fat and silverskin for better smoke absorption.
• Rub the tenderloin all over with olive oil, then your favorite pork rub.
• Let the tenderloin rest for 30 minutes up to overnight in the fridge so the seasoning can penetrate.

Setting Up Your Smoker

• Set up your smoker or pellet grill for smoking at 225-250°F.
• Soak your favorite smoking wood chips if using a regular smoker.
• Allow 15 minutes for the smoker to preheat before adding the pork.

Smoking Times Per Pound

• Smoke the tenderloin for 30 minutes per pound, or about 1.5 hours for a 3 pound tenderloin.
• Use a digital meat thermometer to check the internal temp, not the time.
• Smoke until the internal temp reaches 140-145°F.

Monitoring Temperature

• Insert a digital meat thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin.
• Start checking the temperature after about 1 hour.
• Pull the tenderloin at 140-145°F for juicy, perfectly smoked pork.

Resting and Slicing

• Let the tenderloin rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
• Slice the tenderloin into 1/2 inch rounds across the grain.
• Arrange slices on a platter and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair smoked pork tenderloin with your favorite BBQ sides like baked beans, coleslaw, potatoes, or cornbread.
• Make tacos, sandwiches, or salad with sliced smoked pork tenderloin.
• Serve with a fruity barbecue sauce, chimichurri, or garlic aioli.

Troubleshooting Your Smoke

If your pork tenderloin is underdone

• Return to the smoker and cook 10-15 minutes longer.
• Double check the internal temperature.

If your pork tenderloin is dry or overcooked

• This lean cut can dry out if smoked too long.
• Don’t smoke for longer than 30 minutes per pound.
• Slice thinly across the grain and drizzle with sauce.

If your pork lacks flavor:

• Make sure you use a savory dry rub before smoking.
• Try a sweeter smoking wood like apple, cherry, peach, or maple.
• Glaze or sauce after smoking to add flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal internal temperature for smoked pork tenderloin?

• Cook until it reaches 140-145°F internally for juicy, tender meat.

Should I brine or marinate pork tenderloin before smoking?

• Brining helps keep it juicy but isn’t required. Dry rub adds great flavor.

What pellets or wood are best for smoking pork tenderloin?

• Milder fruit woods like apple, cherry, and pecan work well.

How long does smoked pork tenderloin last in the fridge?

• Store leftovers for 3-4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I smoke a pork tenderloin on a gas grill?

• Yes, use indirect heat on a gas grill with wood chips for flavor.

What barbecue sauces go well with smoked pork tenderloin?

• Sweeter sauces like apricot, peach, bourbon, and mustard work great.

Conclusion

Smoked pork tenderloin is a crowd-pleasing option for dinner or as the star of an appetizer spread. For a 3 pound tenderloin, plan on a total smoking time of about 15 hours at 225-250°F, or 30 minutes per pound Use a digital thermometer to test for doneness, pulling it at 140-145°F. Rest, slice, and serve this tasty smoked pork tenderloin with your favorite sides and sauces!