How Much Pork Tenderloin per Person

How Much Pork Tenderloin Do You Need for a Crowd?


The amount of pork tenderloin to serve per person will be determined by the number of your gathering.

Click here to jump straight to our online pork tenderloin calculator

If you have a small household, cooking one huge pork tenderloin for all people in the family is fine.

If you’re preparing for a bigger group, try cooking 2 small tenderloins for your party.

Table of Contents

The same strategy applies to serving beef tenderloin to a crowd.

See the table below for the precise quantities of pork tenderloin to purchase, prepare, and serve for a group of 4 to 100 people.

A Chart Of How Much Pork Tenderloin Per Person For A Big Group
A Chart Of How Much Pork Tenderloin Per Person For A Big Group

How Much Pork Tenderloin Do You Need Per Person?

This will be determined by the following factors:

  1. Are your visitors all adults, or do you have teenagers? Is it all guys or do some women attend? Because each of these categories of visitors will consume a somewhat different quantity of food.
  2. The typical adult male consumes 6-8 ounces of tenderloin every meal. This is due to the fact that tenderloin is a premium cut that is often served in a fine dining or refined cuisine. If you’re catering for a large group of heavy eaters, I’d recommend 6 to 7 ounces per person. (similar to pork chop per person)
  3. A reasonable rule of thumb is 6 ounces per person, which considers the mix of visitors, large eaters and tiny eaters, and will often leave a modest bit for seconds for certain individuals, therefore, our table is based on that.

How Much is a Single Adult Serving of PorkTenderloin?


A single serving of pork tenderloin weighs around 5-6 ounces (170 grams).

When paired with a few side dishes, this quantity makes a substantial portion. 

Most Popular Pork Cuts For A Big Group
Most Popular Pork Cuts For A Big Group

Roast pork for a crowd is a popular cut.

How Much Pork Tenderloin Should I Buy Each Person?


Depending on appetites, a pound of cooked tenderloin should feed 2.5 people.

However, keep in mind that this is cooked tenderloin; depending on the cooking process, you will lose around 25-30% of the weight.

How Much Uncooked or Raw Pork Tenderloin Do I Need to Buy per Person for A Big Group

A Rule of Thumb is – one pound of uncooked tenderloin will feed two guests when it is cooked.

So you would need to buy approximately 8 ounces per person of raw pork tenderloin for a big group. This will give you sufficient state to account for a variety of guests and appetites.

Online Pork Tenderloin Calculator

Calculator Instructions

You’ll be able to find out exactly how many pounds of pork tenderloin to buy based on the size of your family. You can also input the mix of people – Men, Women etc, along with how many mains and side dishes you are serving – Our Calculator takes all this into account.

You can also click the – serve seconds button, and it will calculate how much Pork Tenderloin you Need to Buy and How Much You Need to Serve.


Pork Tenderloin Serve With Squash and Green Beans
Pork Tenderloin Serve With Squash and Green Beans

A Table of How Much per Person of pork Tenderloin You Need for A Big Group from 4 to 100 People in 2024

How Much pork Tenderloin per Person for 4 People

  • You will need to serve 1.5 lbs or 24 oz of cooked pork tenderloin for a family of 4 people.
  • To serve 4 people, you will need to buy 2 lbs of raw pork tenderloin

How Much pork Tenderloin per Person for 10 People

  • For 10 People You Will Need 6 oz of pork Tenderloin per Guest and 3.75 Lbs in Total.
  • To serve 10 people, you will need to buy 5 lbs of raw pork tenderloin

How Much pork Tenderloin per Person for 20 People

  • For 20 People You Will Need 6 Oz of pork Tenderloin per Guest and 7.5 Lbs in Total.
  • To serve 20 people you will need to buy 10 lbs of raw pork tenderloin

How Much pork Tenderloin per Person for 50 People

  • For 50 People You Will Need 6 Oz of pork Tenderloin per Guest and 19 Lbs in Total.
  • To serve 50 people you will need to buy 25 lbs of raw pork tenderloin

How Much pork Tenderloin per Person for 100 People

  • For 100 People You Will Need 6 Oz of pork Tenderloin per Guest and 40 Lbs in Total.
  • To serve 50 people you will need to buy 52 lbs of raw pork tenderloin

Where Does The Pork Tenderloin Come From, and Why Is It Good For A Big Group

While folks often believe pork tenderloin originates from the leg, it really comes from the hog’s back.

The pork tenderloin, often called the “pork fillet”, is a lean and tender piece of meat that resembles a long slender tube shape. It’s located just behind the ribs, tucked under the loin area. This part of the pig is usually ignored because it doesn’t look pretty enough to eat. 

This is a very lean and tender cut that cooks up perfectly moist and juicy. It’s great for roasting or grilling. You’ll find it in many restaurants around the world.

Finding the correct tradeoff between the correct cut of pork and cost is always a challenge. 

When dealing with a luxury cut like pork tenderloin you may want to consider it for a wedding, graduation, or another special occasion.

Why Is Pork Tenderloin Considered a Premium Cut Of Pork

It has the advantage of being exceedingly slender while also being highly delicate due to not being an overused muscle like the leg or pork should which is often roasted.

Despite having less fat than beef tenderloin, pig tenderloin is a treat when cooked properly. And, with less fat, it’s a lot more healthy while providing the same enjoyment.

However, fat is indeed the source of rich flavor, whereas, without it, even the greatest meats taste bland. This is when rubs, marinades, or plain seasonings come into play.

How Much Pork Tenderloin Do You Serve Each Person?

A Guide to Serving It At A Big Event.

How Much Pork Tenderloin Do You Serve Per Person?

There are two types of pork tenderloins available: regular and boneless. Regular pork tenderloins weigh between 2 and 3 pounds. Boneless pork tenderloins weigh anywhere from 4 to 6 pounds.

You’ll want to serve enough pork tenderloin to feed everyone at your party. However, if you’re not planning on serving any side dishes, you may only need half the amount of pork tenderloins that you normally serve.

Pork tenderloin is delicious served simply roasted or grilled. But there are plenty of other options for sides, including mashed potatoes, green beans, rice pilaf, sautéed spinach, baked sweet potato fries, coleslaw, macaroni salad, corn on the cob, and more to round out the meal nicely.

However, before you run off and buy this meat – YOU MUST CONSIDER PORK SHRINKAGE

How Much Weight Does Cooked Pork Tenderloin Lose?

Because pork tenderloin is a high protein and lean it loses around 30% of its weight when cooked. (Lower Temperatures and slower cooking may reduce this slightly)

This implies that if you roast a pork tenderloin at 180 ° F ( for about 45 minutes, it will be around a third of its original.

If you don’t mind a little additional fat, go ahead and consume it.

How Do You Ensure Pork Tenderloin is Tender After Cooking

You must let it rest and then slice it thinly across the grain.

To ensure tenderness, you can also spoon over any juices from the cooking tray as it rests.  Furthermore, cover it with foil to keep it warm until ready to serve.

What Oven Rack Position to Cook Roasted Pork Tenderloin

The best way to cook pork tenderloin is to use a roasting pan with a rack set inside.

Roasting pans with racks allow air to circulate underneath the meat so it cooks evenly.

Place the pork tenderloin on the rack and pour some olive oil over the

How Do You Know When Pork Tenderloin is done?

Cooking time depends on the size of the tenderloin.

For example, a 5-pound pork tenderloin will take approximately 40 minutes to reach 175°F.

Cook the pork tenderloin until it reaches 165°F internal temperature and it is safe to eat and done. Use a Probe Thermometer.

How to Save Money Feeding Pork To A Crowd.

How to save money feeding pork to a big group.

The key is ensuring you have enough food to satisfy all guests. If you do, they won’t feel stuffed after eating their fill.

To avoid overeating and to save money try serving small portions of pork tenderloin with tasty but inexpensive dishes like macaroni salad, garlic bread, or french fries.

If you’re hosting a dinner party, you might want to serve a variety of foods so people can choose what they want.

For example, you could offer a choice of appetizers to fill them up also before the main, or try serving garlic bread or pasta salad to a family group.

Top 9 Tips For Serving Pork Tenderloin To A Crowd

1. What Time of The Day

If you’re presenting pork tenderloin for a noon meal, serve a little less per person. People tend to eat less while attending an earlier-in-the-day event.

2. What Party Type are You Hosting

Plan on increasing the serving sizes during a sit-down meal. Because the emphasis of these parties is on the cuisine rather than the ambiance, total food intake is greater.  Plus, you’ll probably be having fewer side dishes because people tend to eat less when they’re dining in a formal setting.

When you’re planning your menu, consider how many people will attend.

If you’re expecting a lot of guests, make sure you have enough food to feed everyone.

A good rule of thumb for side dishes is three sides are enough when served with a full helping of pork tenderloin.

3. Party Guest List

Before you go shopping for meat, think about the usual amount sizes you’ll need for your visitors.

If you have children on your guest list, reduce the amounts and increase them for adolescents.

If you’re serving numerous side dishes to your guests, use a little less also.

Prepare an additional pork tenderloin per person for the large eaters, such as teens and athletes.

Consider the chance that your visitors may invite additional friends.

4. Which is Best Boneless or Bone-in Pork Tenderloin

Bone-in or boneless pork loin roasts also are available. Center cut refers to boneless pork loin, while bone-in rib roast refers to bone-in rib roast.

Both incisions come from a big “primal cut” on the animal’s back. Bone-in provides an elegant table presentation, but you’ll need to be skilled with a kitchen knife to get around the bones.

Most recipes call for boneless pork loin, which is generally well-trimmed. The loin roast weighs two to four pounds.

5. How To Prepare Pork Tenderloin

Despite being the most sensitive section of the pig, the tenderloin may be ruined by a lack of basic preparation.

A delicate silverskin membrane runs over the surface of the muscle and must be removed before cooking since it is harsh and chewy.

Many folks who have not been pleased with pork fillet have most likely been offered an untrimmed tenderloin!

Eliminating the silverskin membrane takes about a minute and needs only a sharp knife. The most difficult aspect of dinner preparation is now accomplished.

6. What is the Best Sauce For Pork Tenderloin

I recommend a chimichurri sauce for the pork tenderloin. Chimichurri sauce is great with pork and would complement it well.

Other Sauces that go with Pork Tenderloin are

  • – applesauce
  • – gravy
  • – barbecue sauce
  • – honey mustard
  • – teriyaki sauce
  • – salsa
  • – ketchup
  • – sweet chili sauce
  • – ginger garlic sauce
  • – cranberry sauce

7. How To Slice Pork Tenderloin

After the pork tenderloin has cooled a little and rested and you’ve prepared all of the other ingredients for plating, it’s time to slice it.

Do not cut into lengthy strips lengthwise. Cutting against the grain makes the pork considerably softer.

Instead, cut the pork tenderloin into third to half-inch wide medallions with a sharp knife.

8. How To Plate and Serve Pork Tenderloin

How to Serve Pork Tenderloin to Your Guests

Serving pork tenderloin to guests is pretty straightforward. Place about 3 slices or medallions pieces onto the side of the plate and add whatever sides you’d like on the other side. Then pour any gravy or sauce over top.

You can also add any additional toppings you’d like. For example, I like to sprinkle fresh parsley over mine.

9. Pork Tenderloin Marinating Marinating

Marinate Pork Tenderloins

With pork tenderloins, there are two main types of marinade options: marinades and rub. Both methods provide great results, but if you are pressed for time, a rub might be the better option.

A marinade takes longer to penetrate the meat, but it does give you more control over the final flavor profile. You can add additional ingredients to enhance the flavor of your pork tenderloin.

For those on a tighter timeline, a rub works great. Just focus on applying enough of the spice mixture to coat the entire surface of the meat. Then let the meat sit for 30 minutes before cooking.

Depending on your cooking method, basting the meat in sauce toward the end of the cook helps the meat caramelize and sets on the meat.

Best Side Dishes For Pork Tenderloin

Best Side Dishes For Pig Loin

Pork tenderloins are delicious, but they can be expensive. You may not want to spend that much per serving, but you can make it cheaper by serving great side dishes. These side dishes are great options for any occasion.

Potatoes and Gravy

Mashed potato for a crowd is always a winner. The recipe is super simple and inexpensive.  Serve with a sprinkle of paprika for added finesse.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted veggies are a great option for entertaining guests. Just toss a bunch of carrots, sweet peppers, broccoli florets, cauliflower pieces and onion wedges onto a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Grilled Zucchini or  Squash

Zucchini and yellow squash are versatile vegetables. They can be grilled, baked, sauteed, steamed, boiled, microwaved or even deep fried.  Either way, they taste amazing.

Caramelized Onions

Onion caramelization is another great option for serving pork tenderloin. Cut off the ends of the onions and slice them lengthwise. Place the slices flat on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. You can cook them with pork for extra flavor.

Corn on the Cob

You can grill corn on the cob right alongside your pork tenderloin. Just remove the husks and silk from the ears of corn and place them on a hot grill. Flip the ears occasionally until cooked through. See how many corn on the cob for a crowd.

Polenta

If you’re having a party, try polenta instead of rice or pasta. 

Cauliflower

Cauliflower is another healthy vegetable that goes perfectly with pork tenderloin. Slice the florets into bite-sized pieces and steam them in a covered pan for 5 minutes. Drain and serve.

How to Select the Best Pork Tenderloin

How to Select the Best pork tenderloin

Pork tenderloins are great cuts of meat. However, not all pork tenderloins are created equal. You’ll want to look for milky, creamy skins and choose meat that’s red in color with some marbling. These signs indicate that the pork tenderloin was properly cooked.