recipe for pork loin roast
The Best recipe for pork loin roast
I’ve found that this dish works beautifully for everything from casual family dinners to bigger gatherings, like a holiday spread or a potluck. It’s the kind of meal that feels substantial but isn’t too heavy, and the pork’s natural sweetness makes it a great base for seasonings and sauces. Plus, it’s a great way to use up a whole roast in one sitting, leaving less waste and more leftovers to enjoy. For me, it’s not just about the taste—it’s about the effortless way it brings people together, whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a meal that feels like a celebration.
Classic Roasted Pork Loin with Herb Butter
A juicy, flavorful pork loin roast seasoned with garlic and herbs, roasted to tender perfection with a rich herb butter glaze. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) pork loin
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 oz (115g) unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp salt
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a rack in the center of the oven and let it heat while you prepare the pork. -
2
Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. Rub the outside evenly with olive oil, then mix Dijon mustard, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the pork evenly with the mixture, pressing the seasoning into the meat. -
3
Place the pork loin in a roasting pan, fat side up. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and transfer to the oven. Roast for 45 minutes. -
4
Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Roast the pork until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), about 30 to 40 minutes more, until the edges pull away from the pan and the meat is tender. -
5
While the pork roasts, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic, parsley, sage, lemon zest, and salt. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the butter is slightly caramelized and fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly. -
6
Once the pork is done, transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Pour the herb butter glaze over the top of the roast and let it melt slightly while you slice the meat.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Oven-safe roasting pan
- Mixing spoon
- Aluminum foil
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Roasted Pork Loin with Herb Butter Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Roasted Pork Loin with Herb Butter
How long should I let the pork loin roast rest after cooking?
After roasting, allow the pork loin to rest for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute juices, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Can I marinate the pork loin before roasting?
Yes, marinating enhances tenderness and flavor. Use a simple mix of olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. Marinate for at least 2–4 hours, but avoid over-marinating (more than 12 hours) to prevent toughness.
What’s the best way to check if the pork is done?
The pork is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) on a meat thermometer. Look for a slightly pink center if you prefer a medium-rare look, but avoid pink if you want it fully cooked.
Do I need to trim excess fat before roasting?
Trimming excess fat isn’t essential, but removing it improves presentation and reduces splatter. If the fat is thick, you can leave it—it’ll render into the juices. Just avoid overcrowding the pan with too much fat.
