A single-pot method of producing a hydrodesulfurization catalyst by hydrothermally treating a hydrothermal precursor that includes a silica source, a structural directing surfactant, an aqueous acid solution, and metal precursors that contain active catalyst materials is provided. The hydrodesulfurization catalyst includes a catalyst support having SBA-15 and preferably titanium, wherein the active catalyst materials are homogenously deposited on the catalyst support. Various embodiments of said method and the hydrodesulfurization catalyst are also provided.