When it comes to weeknight dinners, few proteins are as versatile and satisfying as pork loin. This tender and flavorful cut of meat can be prepared in countless ways, from classic roasted dishes to more adventurous global-inspired recipes. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick and easy meal or a foodie seeking new flavors to explore, we’ve got you covered with these 20 juicy pork loin recipes.
From sweet and sticky glazes to savory herb crusts, each of these recipes offers a unique twist on the classic pork loin. And the best part? They’re all surprisingly simple to make, even for busy weeknights. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and discover your new favorite way to prepare pork loin!
Garlic Herb Roasted Pork Loin
Elevate your Sunday roast with this flavorful Garlic Herb Roasted Pork Loin recipe. The combination of aromatic herbs and savory garlic creates a deliciously tender and juicy pork loin.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork loin
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork loin on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet.
4. Rub the garlic-herb mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Roast the pork loin in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork loin rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Pork Loin
Sweet and tangy, this honey mustard glaze adds a delicious twist to a classic pork loin roast. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless pork loin
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and thyme.
3. Rub the pork loin with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze all over the pork loin, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place the pork loin in a roasting pan and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for a 1-2 pound pork loin.
Apple Cider Braised Pork Loin
Elevate your pork loin game with this fall-inspired dish that combines the comforting flavors of apple cider and tender, slow-cooked meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pork loin with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add sliced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in apple cider and bring to a simmer. Return the pork loin to the pot, cover with lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the pork reaches your desired level of tenderness.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Balsamic Rosemary Pork Loin
This recipe combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze and fragrant rosemary to create a tender and delicious pork loin dish. Perfect for a special occasion or weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless pork loin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and minced garlic.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the balsamic glaze all over the pork loin.
7. Let the pork loin rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Potatoes
Slow Cooker Pork Loin with Potatoes Recipe
This hearty slow cooker recipe combines tender pork loin with creamy potatoes, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-1.5 pound) boneless pork loin roast
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
- In a slow cooker, layer the sliced onion at the bottom. Place the pork loin on top of the onion.
- Arrange the potato cubes around the pork loin.
- Pour in the chicken broth and drizzle with olive oil.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time:
- Low: 8-10 hours
- High: 4-6 hours
Pork Loin Stuffed with Spinach and Feta
Treat your taste buds to a flavorful fusion of savory pork, tangy feta, and healthy spinach. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless pork loin
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped spinach, crumbled feta, and minced garlic.
3. Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff the pork loin with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly along the length of the loin.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed pork loin and place it in a roasting pan.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours total cooking time, depending on pork loin size.
Maple Dijon Pork Loin
Elevate your pork loin game with this sweet and tangy maple dijon glaze, perfect for a special occasion or weeknight dinner. This recipe yields a juicy, flavorful roast that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and garlic.
3. Season the pork loin with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Brush the glaze all over the pork loin, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for a 1-2 pound pork loin.
Pork Loin with Mushroom Cream Sauce
A classic combination of tender pork loin and rich mushroom cream sauce makes for a satisfying dinner. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season pork loin with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork loin until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Transfer pork loin to a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, sauté mushrooms and garlic in the same skillet with flour until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Add heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer until sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve pork loin with mushroom cream sauce spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Asian-Style Glazed Pork Loin
Asian-Style Glazed Pork Loin Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavors of soy sauce and honey with the savory sweetness of brown sugar to create a delectable glaze for pork loin. Perfect as an entree or for special occasions, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-pound) pork loin
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
4. Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the glaze all over the pork loin, making sure to coat it evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Loin with Cranberry Orange Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce elevates a classic pork loin dish to new heights, perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion. With its rich flavors and tender meat, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) boneless pork loin
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
3. In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange marmalade, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat until the cranberries pop and the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Place the pork loin in a roasting pan and brush with half of the cranberry-orange sauce.
6. Roast the pork loin for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving with the remaining sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Paprika Pork Loin
Elevate your pork loin game with this sweet and smoky recipe. Smoked paprika adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Pork Loin with Garlic Butter Green Beans
A classic combination that’s sure to please! This recipe pairs a tender pork loin with crispy, flavorful green beans smothered in garlicky goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and salt.
3. Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread half of the garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of the pork loin.
4. Roast the pork loin in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. While the pork is cooking, toss the green beans with the remaining garlic butter mixture and spread on a separate baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast the green beans in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Let the pork loin rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving with the garlic butter green beans.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Loin
A sweet and savory twist on traditional teriyaki pork loin, this recipe combines the flavors of caramelized pineapple with a rich soy sauce-based glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the pork loin in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the glaze over the meat, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Transfer the pork to a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Toss pineapple chunks with remaining glaze from the marinade. Serve the pork with caramelized pineapple on top, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pork Loin with Red Wine Reduction
Elevate your pork loin game with a rich and flavorful red wine reduction that adds depth and complexity to this tender cut of meat. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 1/4 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine red wine, garlic, brown sugar, and mustard. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until reduced by half.
3. Season pork loin with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear pork loin for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and roast pork loin for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving with red wine reduction spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Loin and Sweet Potato Skillet
A hearty, one-pan meal that combines the tender juiciness of pork loin with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin roast
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the pork loin for 2 minutes on each side, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cubed sweet potatoes, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Return the pork loin to the skillet and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the pork reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Loin with Caramelized Onions
This recipe combines the rich flavor of pork loin with the deep sweetness of caramelized onions, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Transfer the pork loin to the skillet and sear for 1-2 minutes on each side.
5. Place the skillet in the oven and roast for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pork Loin with Creamy Mustard Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe. A tender pork loin paired with a rich and tangy creamy mustard sauce is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the pork loin to a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. While the pork loin is cooking, combine Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
6. Stir in heavy cream until smooth.
7. Remove the pork loin from the oven and brush with the creamy mustard sauce.
8. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork Loin with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your dinner game with this easy and flavorful recipe, pairing a tender pork loin with roasted Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze all over the pork, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Roast the pork in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
5. While the pork is cooking, toss the Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: Pork loin: 40-50 minutes; Brussels sprouts: 20-25 minutes
Pork Loin with Peach BBQ Glaze
Elevate your pork loin game with this sweet and savory peach BBQ glaze recipe! Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 1/4 cup peach preserves
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peach preserves, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the peach BBQ glaze all over the pork loin, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Roast the pork loin in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork loin rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pork Loin with Herb Crust
Pork Loin with Herb Crust: A flavorful and aromatic dish perfect for a special occasion or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Season the pork loin with salt and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Place the pork loin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork loin rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with these 20 mouthwatering pork loin recipes! From classic flavors like garlic herb and honey mustard, to sweet and savory options like apple cider braised and peach BBQ glazed, there’s something for everyone. These easy and impressive dishes are perfect for busy families or special occasions. Try out a new recipe tonight!