A tasty way to roast pork loin so that it is juicy in the middle and brown and crusty on the outside.
Awhile ago I posted my method for roasting pork perfectly. That pork roast recipe has gotten a lot of great feedback in the comment section. There are also a lot of questions there too. A question that comes up a lot is whether the same method can be used on pork loin or only on pork butt as the recipe says.
My answer is always no. Because pork loin is leaner than pork butt, the long way I cooked it would make the pork roasts very dry. I decided to try different ways to roast pork loin because I get asked about it a lot. This recipe for juicy oven-roasted pork loin is the best of the best.
Pork loin is a lean, tender cut of meat that makes for an easy, delicious dinner when roasted in the oven. For a 1.7 lb pork loin roast, the cooking time will be around 50-60 minutes to ensure it turns out juicy and flavorful.
Follow this complete guide to learn exactly how long to cook a 17 lb pork loin roast in the oven along with tips for the perfect juicy texture
Calculating Cooking Time for a 1.7 lb Pork Loin
The general guideline for calculating pork loin cooking time is:
- 20-25 minutes per 1 lb of meat at 350°F
So for a 1,7 lb pork loin
- 1.7 lbs x 25 minutes per lb = 42.5 minutes
- Round up to 50 minutes for a 1.7 lb pork loin
However, cooking time can vary a bit depending on:
- Oven temperature (higher temp = faster cooking)
- Whether roast is bone-in or boneless (boneless cooks faster)
- Desired doneness (145°F for pink, 160°F for well-done)
To account for these factors, it’s best to calculate a range. For a 1. 7 lb pork loin, the cooking time will be:
- Minimum: 45-50 minutes
- Maximum: 55-60 minutes
Always trust an instant read meat thermometer to tell you the right temperature, not just the time.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Pork Loin
Follow these simple steps for foolproof oven roasted pork loin:
1. Prepare the Roast
- Pat 1.7 lb pork loin dry with paper towels
- Trim off any excess fat or silver skin
- Generously season all over with salt, pepper and herbs
- Let sit at room temperature 30 minutes while oven preheats
2. Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy
3. Cook the Pork Loin
- Place seasoned pork loin on a rack in a roasting pan
- Insert meat thermometer into thickest part, not touching bone
- Roast for 50-60 minutes until thermometer reads 140°F
4. Rest and Finish
- Remove roast when internal temp hits 140°F
- Tent loosely with foil and let rest 15 minutes
- Temperature will rise to safe 145°F as it rests
5. Slice and Serve
- After resting, slice pork loin into 1/2 inch slices
- Serve warm with your favorite sides
Inserting the Meat Thermometer Correctly
To get an accurate reading, insert the instant read thermometer into the thickest part of the pork loin, making sure not to hit the bone.
Aim to push the thermometer into the very center of the roast at about a 45 degree angle. For a 1.7 lb pork loin, the thermometer should go in about 1 inch deep.
Double check a few spots to confirm the pork loin is evenly cooked throughout. It should register at least 140-145°F before resting.
Determining Doneness of Pork Loin
Here are signs your pork loin roast is fully cooked when using an instant read thermometer:
-
140-145°F = Slightly pink, juicy interior
-
150-155°F = Trace of pink, firm texture
-
160°F+ = Well done, dry white center
The USDA recommends cooking pork to 145°F minimum for food safety. Letting the pork rest will raise the temp another 5 degrees to land at a safe 150°F after resting.
For best texture and moisture, cook for the lower range of 140-145°F. If you prefer pork more well-done, aim for 155-160°F internal temp.
Maintaining Juiciness
To keep a 1.7 lb pork loin roast as juicy as possible:
- Cook at lower 325°F oven temp
- Baste with pan juices every 20 minutes
- Lightly tent with foil if browning too fast
- Allow meat to rest before slicing
The resting period is key for retaining moisture. As the proteins relax, the juices redistribute through the meat instead of spilling out when cut.
Serving Suggestions
A 1.7 lb pork loin will serve about 4-6 people depending on portions. Pair it with:
- Herb roasted potatoes
- Sauteed green beans
- Salad with vinaigrette
- Fresh baked rolls
Slice the rested pork loin into 1/2 inch slices and serve while still warm. Leftovers will keep refrigerated for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
With this handy guide, you now know exactly how long to cook a 1.7 lb pork loin roast in the oven for flawless, juicy results every time. Follow the simple steps and use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Enjoy your savory oven-roasted pork loin meal!
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You don’t need much to make a delicious and juicy pork loin.
- Pork loin roast, 3 – 5 pounds
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Salt
You’ll also need an oven-safe rack to set the pork loin on with it roasts. If you don’t have one, a few ribs of celery will work. The idea is to allow the hot air in the oven to circulate under the roast. A casserole dish that’s bigger than the roast will work as a roasting pan. You’ll also need aluminum foil.
Pork Loin Vs Pork Tenderloin
First, just to be clear, I’m talking about boneless pork loin today, not about pork tenderloin. We’re also not talking about pork butt or pork shoulder. These are all different cuts of pork and require different times and temperatures. If you want to know how to cook these other types of pork, I can help you:
Now onto the loin!
Boneless Pork Loin Roast Basics
FAQ
Is it better to cook a pork loin at 350 or 400?
How long does it take to cook a 7 lb pork roast at 350?
How long does it take to cook a 7 pound pork tenderloin?
How long to cook a 3 lb Pork loin?
Let’s examine how long to cook your pork loin in the oven, after all, a big part in making the best pork roast recipe is the time in the oven. Based on a 3 lb pork loin roast at 325 degrees, it will take approximately 60 minutes to cook in the oven.
How long to cook pork loin in oven?
The general rule of thumb for cooking pork loin in the oven is to allow 20 minutes of cooking time per pound of meat. However, keep in mind that this is just a guideline, and the actual cooking time may vary. To determine the doneness of the pork loin, it’s essential to use a meat thermometer.
How to cook pork loin?
There are a few methods for cooking pork loin. The easiest way is to roast it in the oven, like in this recipe. Make sure to consistently baste your pork loin while it cooks to keep the meat juicy and allow it to soak up all the flavors. Then serve the roast with the extra pan sauce as well.
How long should a pork loin rest before cooking?
The National Pork Board recommends the following cooking times for roasting pork loin at 350 degrees F (177 degrees C) in the oven: You’ll want to let your pork loin rest at least three minutes before serving. But, if you can wait longer, resting for about 10 to 15 minutes will result in an even juicier roast.