This simple Traeger Pork Tenderloin with Mustard Sauce is easy to prepare, takes less than 30 minutes from fridge to table, and is a reliable family favorite.
Traeger Pork Tenderloin grilled with mustard sauce
Pork tenderloin with mustard sauce is a fast, flavorful grill option for your Traeger or any pellet grill. Pork tenderloin is a very lean cut—comparable to chicken breast—so it’s a healthy choice. The mustard sauce adds bright acidity and a gentle heat that complements the meat without overpowering it.
Pork tenderloin needs gentle cooking
Pork tenderloin is a uniformly sized, relatively thin cut that cooks quickly and evenly. Because it’s so lean, it benefits from a sauce or marinade that helps lock in moisture. Plan on roughly 15–20 minutes of cook time on a 350°F pellet grill, depending on the size of the tenderloin. The goal is an internal temperature of 145°F followed by a short 3-minute rest to let the juices redistribute.
Avoid very high grill temperatures that can dry out the exterior before the center reaches the right temperature. A steady 350°F promotes even cooking and a nicely glazed surface from the mustard sauce.
Why mustard and pork work so well
Mustard and pork are a classic pairing. The tang and slight heat of mustard brightens the mild, slightly sweet flavor of pork. In this mustard sauce, a touch of vinegar helps tenderize the meat while the mustard and spices build layers of flavor. The mustard remains the star, so keep other strong seasonings like extra red pepper flakes in check so they don’t mask the mustard’s character.
Choosing the right mustard
Dijon-style mustard is my preference for this recipe because its smooth, tangy complexity elevates the dish. If you prefer more heat, use a spicier mustard; if you only have classic yellow mustard, it will still work. You can choose seeded or smooth Dijon depending on whether you like a little texture from the seeds.
Marinating and seasoning time
You can mix the mustard sauce and apply it right before grilling, but the flavor deepens if you marinate the tenderloin for a few hours or overnight. Even a one-hour rest in the sauce gives the meat good flavor penetration. The sauce both seasons and helps retain moisture during cooking.
Grilling tips for mustard-glazed tenderloin
Set your pellet grill to 350°F and place the sauced tenderloin on the grill away from direct flame to prevent drying. Turn the tenderloin every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and glaze it frequently with extra sauce. Because the cut cooks quickly, monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking.
Adding smoke
If you want a hint of smoke, run your pellet grill on smoke for 3–5 minutes before cooking, or start the cook with the sauce applied and allow a brief smoke period. Pork tenderloin absorbs smoke quickly, so a light smoky note is enough. Always prioritize internal temperature—target 145°F—over strict timing.
Serving suggestions
Asparagus makes a fresh, crisp side, but this pork pairs well with many options: green salads, pasta salad, roasted or mashed potatoes, or rice dishes. Choose sides that complement the mustard’s tang, such as simple roasted vegetables or a creamy potato side.
Recipe ideas to pair with this dish
- Traeger Togarashi grilled asparagus
- Creamy macaroni salad
- Smoked baked potatoes
- Grilled mixed vegetables
Pellet Grill Mustard Pork Tenderloin
This tender pork tenderloin cooks quickly on a pellet grill and stays moist thanks to the mustard glaze. Serve it sliced on its own, in sandwiches, or alongside your favorite sides.
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin
- 1 ½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 ½ tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon parsley flakes
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your pellet grill to 350°F following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Whisk together the mustard, oil, vinegar, and spices to make the sauce. Rub the mixture evenly over the pork tenderloin. For best flavor, marinate for 1 hour to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Place the tenderloin on the preheated grill. Turn it every 5 minutes and baste with extra sauce as it cooks. Cook for 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (some recipes allow pulling at 150°F if you prefer a firmer finish). Let rest for 3 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 87
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 16mg
Sodium: 562mg
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 6g
Nutrition values are estimates. Consult a trusted source for medical or dietary accuracy.
