Pork Loin Recipes โ If you are a fan of pork chops and tenderloin, then you should definitely keep this collection of recipes on your radar. Not only is pork loin a more budget-friendly option, but itโs also ridiculously easy to prepare and simply delicious. ๐
Personally, I love to cook pork loin because itโs so versatile. Since itโs a leaner cut of meat, the flavor is milder and can pair with a wide range of herbs, spices, and other ingredients. There is a flavor combination for everyone on this list, from cheddar and apple stuffing to bacon and mushroom gravy.
Itโs also super easy to cook a pork roast to perfection. It has just the right amount of fat content, which means it doesnโt dry out quickly when you cook it. Even if youโre just starting out in the kitchen, you can succeed with any of these recipes.
FAQs
Yes! Pork tenderloin is long and narrow and always boneless and is best cooked quickly with high heat. On the other hand, pork loin is flatter and wider, and it can be bone-in or boneless. And itโs better cooked low and slow. Both cuts come from the area between the shoulder and back legs of the animal.
Pork loin is easy to keep juicy, as long as you stick to the proper cooking times. Overcook it, and it can dry out and get tough. Start at a high temperature to sear it, then lower the temperature and let it roast long and slow (about 20 minutes per pound). Another tip: Cook the pork loin fat side up when possible. That way, the fat layer bastes the roast while it cooks and keeps things moist.
Oh, the possibilities! I love to season pork with my pork chop seasoning, but so many flavor combinations work well with this meat. Herbs like sage, rosemary, coriander, and cayenne all taste great on pork, as do sweeter options like clove and brown sugar. When it comes to adding herbs and spices to pork, I say the more, the merrier. ๐
Make-Ahead, Serving, and Storage Instructions
All of these recipes can be made ahead of time. Simply follow recipe instructions, then wrap the pork loin in cling wrap, followed by foil to avoid freezer burn. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw the meat until it is soft, and roast as per recipe instructions.
Serve these pork loin recipes hot out of the oven (internal temperature should be at least 145ยฐ F/63โ). You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for three to four days. To reheat pork loin, pop it in an oven preheated to 350โ/177โ for 10-20 minutes or until heated through. Add a small amount of water or broth to the pan to keep the roast from drying out. You can also reheat pork loin in the microwave.
The Pork Loin Recipe Roundup
1. Stuffed Pork Loin Roast
This is hands down one of my favorite pork loin recipes. Itโs easy to make, and the herby bacon and mushroom stuffing rolled up in the meat is scrumptious. Plus, a stuffed pork loin looks so fancy. ๐
To make this dish look even more bougie, serve it with a side of Duchess potatoes. The delicately swirled potatoes alongside the stuffed pork loin will make your guests feel like they are in a high-end restaurant.
2. Herb Crusted Pork Loin Roast
Stress-free and oh-so-good, this is a pork loin recipe that I love to make for a weeknight dinner or even for a special occasion. The herb-crusted outer layer is crispy and loaded with flavor, and the creamy mustard and garlic pan gravy is out of this world.
Serve this dish with some honey-glazed carrots and roast garlic mashed potatoes, and youโll have an absolutely beautiful dinner trifecta. Iโm drooling just thinking about it. ๐คค
3. Slow Cooker Pork Loin
Hereโs another perfect example of the exquisite flavors you can pair with pork loin. Pineapple, garlic, onion, and a balsamic brown sugar glaze make this pork loin a meal youโll get excited about. Plus, slow cooker meals are the best, arenโt they? ๐
Serve it with roast potatoes and carrots and maybe even a side of sauteed kale. Bitter greens will make a lovely compliment to the sweet flavors of the meat.
4. Smoked Pork Loin
Who doesnโt love smoked meats? Smoked pork loin is juicy and tender, and with that classic smokey flavor, my family can wipe out a whole pork loin in no time.
Many side dishes work beautifully with this recipe, but a couple of my favorites are coleslaw and seasoned fries for that down-home barbecue taste. So good! ๐คฉ
5. Easy, Instant Pot Pork Loin Roast
This pork loin is so quick to make, and with plenty of herbs and sweet balsamic gravy, it is loaded with flavor. Honestly, the Instant Pot can be such a lifesaver on a busy weeknight, am I right? ๐
Serve this dish with some rosemary roasted potatoes and an easy wedge salad to keep the quick yet delicious theme going.
6. Easy, Air Fryer Italian Herb Pork Loin
What do you get when you smother a pork loin in loads of Italian herbs and then pop it in the air fryer? A pork loin with tons of flavor and a crispy outer layer that is sheer perfection!
When it comes to sides, I love to serve this pork loin with green beans and bacon and cheesy potatoes au gratin, but you do you here. There are so many pairings that taste amazing with this one.
7. Bacon-Wrapped Brined Pork Loin with Mushroom Gravy
Rosemary, mushrooms, bacon, and pork loin make such a lovely combination of flavors, IMO. Donโt be intimidated by the brining element in this recipe; this dinner is ready in an hour or less, including brining time.
Serve it up with your favorite sides. May I suggest stovetop mac and cheese? Thereโs just something about bacon recipes with a side of mac and cheese; just saying. ๐
8. Grilled Asian Pork and Pineapple Skewers
Doesnโt this recipe sound decadent? Even with simple ingredients, let me tell you, it is! This one is one of my familyโs favorite ways to eat pork loin.
Pair this recipe with some mashed potatoes and a broccoli salad, and youโve got a dinner to remember! โจ
Conclusion
Go ahead and give a few of these pork loin recipes a try, and youโll have some new, budget-friendly, flavor-packed recipes in your repertoire. And donโt forget to let me know which one is your favorite in the comments section below. โค๏ธ
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