Pork Loin Recipes

Pork loin is one of the most versatile and delicious cuts of meat you can cook with. It’s lean, tender, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, these pork loin recipes will take your culinary skills to the next level. From classic roasts to inventive marinades, there’s something here for everyone.

1. Classic Roast Pork Loin

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork loin
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork loin.
4. Place the pork loin in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
5. Roast for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork loin rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

2. Honey Garlic Pork Loin

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork loin
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the garlic, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork loin in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic mixture over it.
4. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork loin rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

3. Stuffed Pork Loin

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork loin
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butterfly the pork loin by cutting it lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. In a bowl, mix the spinach, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the mixture evenly over the inside of the pork loin.
5. Roll up the pork loin and secure it with kitchen twine.
6. Rub the outside with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
7. Place the pork loin in a roasting pan and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
8. Let the pork loin rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

4. BBQ Glazed Pork Loin

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork loin
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork loin in a baking dish and brush it with the BBQ glaze.
4. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork loin rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

5. Herb-Crusted Pork Loin

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork loin
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the Dijon mustard, rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork loin.
4. Place the pork loin in a roasting pan and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Let the pork loin rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Tips for Cooking Pork Loin

• Resting Time: Always let the pork loin rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful.
• Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork loin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures it’s cooked through but still juicy.
• Marinade: Marinating the pork loin for a few hours or overnight can infuse it with extra flavor and tenderness.

Pork loin is a fantastic choice for any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. These recipes are easy to follow and guarantee delicious results every time. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up a pork loin and try one of these recipes—you won’t be disappointed!