Pork loin is a lean and tender cut of meat that can be cooked in various ways, but roasting it in the oven results in a juicy and flavorful main course. Follow these simple steps for cooking foolproof oven-roasted pork loin.
1. Best Temperature To Cook a Pork Loin in Oven?
The ideal oven temperature for roasting pork loin is 350°F. This relatively low temperature allows the interior of the pork to cook through gently while the outside browns and crisps up. Roasting at higher temps may lead to overcooking the outer portion before the inside is properly done.
2. How To Cook Pork Loin
Ingredients
- 2-3 lb boneless pork loin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1⁄2 tsp salt
- 1⁄4 tsp black pepper
- 1⁄4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Next, pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. Rub all over with olive oil.
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, rosemary, salt and pepper. Rub this all over the pork loin.
Place pork loin on a rimmed baking sheet or in a roasting pan. Pour broth into the bottom of the pan.
Roast for 60-75 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Remove pork from oven, tent with foil and let rest 10-15 minutes.
Slice pork and serve warm. Enjoy!
3. What To Serve With Roasted Pork Loin
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted pork loin. You can infuse them with garlic, herbs, or cheese for added flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus with a touch of olive oil, salt, and pepper complements the pork’s savory flavors.
Applesauce: The natural sweetness of applesauce contrasts beautifully with the savory pork. It’s a classic pairing for a reason.
Gravy: A rich and flavorful gravy made from the pan drippings can enhance the pork loin’s taste and make it even more indulgent.
Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans, sprinkled with almonds or bacon, offer a crisp and fresh side to balance the richness of the pork.
Cranberry Sauce: For a touch of tartness, consider serving cranberry sauce as it cuts through the richness of the roasted pork loin.
With its mild flavor and tender texture, roasted pork loin partners extremely well with various dishes to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. By following the instructions in this article, I hope that you can cook a pork loin in oven perfectly at home.
