Tennessee Maple-Glazed BBQ Pork Tenderloin

Introduction

This Tennessee Maple-Glazed BBQ Pork Tenderloin is the perfect blend of smoky, sweet and bold southern flavor. Glazed with a maple-bourbon BBQ sauce and reverse seared to perfection using the incredible heat and versatility of the Arteflame grill, this recipe locks in juices and caramelizes the outside for unbeatable taste and texture. It’s a true backyard showstopper that's big on flavor and perfect for entertaining or a flavorful family dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 lb each)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp butter (for griddle sautéing)
• Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil (for lighting grill)
• 3 paper napkins (for lighting grill)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto 3 paper napkins and place them in the center of your Arteflame grill.
2. Build a stack of dry, seasoned firewood over the napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to burn for about 20 minutes or until the Arteflame cooktop and center grate are hot and ready for grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Maple-Bourbon BBQ Glaze

1. In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Set aside 1/4 cup of the glaze for basting during cooking.

Step 3: Season the Pork Tenderloin

1. Pat pork tenderloins dry with paper towels.
2. Season all sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Sear the Pork on the Arteflame Center Grate

1. Place the pork tenderloins on the center grill grate of the Arteflame where temperatures reach over 1,000°F.
2. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes to get a perfect caramelized crust and lock in juices.

Step 5: Finish Cooking Using Reverse Sear

1. Move the seared pork tenderloins to the flat cooktop cookzone closer to the outer edge to finish cooking indirectly.
2. Baste generously with the maple-bourbon glaze every few minutes.
3. Rotate and cook the pork until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (it will rise another 10–15°F after resting).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes.
2. Slice and serve with additional glaze drizzled on top.

Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
• Always rest grilled meats to allow juices to redistribute.
• Test hot zones on the Arteflame griddle by dropping a bit of water — quicker sizzles mean higher heat.
• Use butter instead of oil on the flat top for richer flavor and perfect browning.

Variations

1. Spicy Tennessee Heat: Add 1 tbsp chipotle chili powder to the glaze for a smoky kick.
2. Peach Bourbon Glaze: Substitute 1/3 cup peach preserves for maple syrup and add crushed red pepper flakes for sweet heat.
3. Honey Dijon Glaze: Replace maple syrup with local Tennessee honey and add extra Dijon mustard for tangier flavor.
4. Tennessee Apple BBQ: Use apple butter instead of syrup and add a splash of apple juice to balance the bourbon.
5. Smoky Espresso Pork: Add 1 tsp espresso powder and use brown sugar instead of maple syrup for a deep, bold flavor.

Conclusion

Perfectly grilled, reverse-seared, and infused with a caramelized maple-bourbon glaze, this Tennessee-style pork tenderloin is a knockout dish. When you use the unique capabilities of the Arteflame grill—like that searing hot center grate and even temperature control on the flat cooktop—you’re able to create rich flavors with simple ingredients. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a family dinner, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

Best Pairings

• Grilled sweet corn with a butter and chili rub
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes cooked on the outer ring of the griddle
• Grilled peach halves with cinnamon and butter
• A glass of chilled Tennessee bourbon or sweet iced tea