Sometimes the simplest meals make the most sense. Case in point, I have a special place in my heart for fresh pork tenderloin. I never thought of it until our friends at Smithfield made the suggestion, but besides a great grilled dinner, fresh pork tenderloin also makes the best sliders.

Think about it for a minute. First, a fresh pork tenderloin is perfectly “slider sized.” Second, there is no faster way to grill up a dozen sliders than by grilling one fresh pork tenderloin.

Even better is that Smithfield fresh pork tenderloin is perfectly pre-marinated in delicious seasonings, thus reducing prep time. They’re perfect any night, as Smithfield has done the prep work for you! 

For this recipe, I used the Weber Q. It’s a great example of the Q’s versatility, as it involves both direct and indirect grilling.

Garlic & Herb Pork Sliders
by Mike Lang

Ingredients:
1 Smithfield Garlic and Herb Seasoned Pork Tenderloin
12 slices gouda cheese
12 slider rolls
12 sweet gherkin pickles

Instructions:

1. Prepare the grill for direct grilling and allow to preheat for 10-15 minutes. 

2.  Over direct medium heat, grill the fresh tenderloin for 2 minutes a side, for a total of 8 minutes. 

3.  Move the tenderloin over indirect heat now. Or if using a Q, remove the tenderloin from the grill and place the roasting shield on the grates. Place the tenderloin on the roasting shield, lower the lid.

Grill for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the tenderloin reaches 145 F with an instant read thermometer.

4. Remove the tenderloin from the grill. Allow to rest a few minutes and then slice into 12 equal pieces. Place each slice on a bun and then top with a piece of gouda. Return the slices on to the roasting shield or over indirect heat. Lower the lid for several minutes allowing the cheese to melt.

Tip: For perfectly sized cheese slices, cut each slice with a cookie cutter to match the size of the sliders. 

5.  Remove from the grill, add your favorite condiment, and top with a pickle. To say these are fantastic is to sell them short. They are just that good.