Cooking roasted pork loin for dinner is a great idea because it’s simple and only needs a few simple things. In this recipe for roast pork loin, you rub a boneless pork loin with a simple mixture of garlic and fresh herbs and then roast it until it’s done. Adjust the salt and other seasonings to your taste.
Back then, people thought that pork had to be cooked all the way through for safety reasons. But now we know that pork can (and should be) cooked to medium, or 140 to 145 F. The interior will have a lovely rosy color, and the texture will not be dry or tough. But if you’re still not sure, you can make the necessary changes and cook the loin until it reaches at least 150 F. Don’t forget that you should take the roast out five degrees before the end goal temperature and let it sit until it’s done.
“Hands down one of my favorite recipes on the site. Ive always received such compliments when I make it. The recipe is easy-to-follow, flavorful, and it is definitely one that will stay with me. I recommend anyone who is struggling to make a moist and tender pork dish to try it. You won’t be disappointed. ” —Victoria Heydt.
For many home cooks, preparing a succulent center cut boneless pork loin roast that is moist and full of flavor can be an intimidating task. However, with the right techniques and seasonings, you can achieve pork roast perfection right from your own oven. In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through the foolproof process for cooking boneless center cut pork loin so it turns out tender and delicious every time.
What is Center Cut Pork Loin?
The center cut loin is located along the back of the pig. It’s a lean, tender section of meat that runs from the shoulder through the hip. Boneless center cut pork loin roasts are ideal for roasting since the absence of bones allows for even cooking. This premium cut has a mild flavor that takes well to herbs, spices and marinades.
When shopping, look for a roast labeled “boneless center cut pork loin.” Avoid chops or other sections which may require different cook times. Plan for about 1/2 pound of meat per serving. For special occasions, choose a roast with some nice marbling for added moistness and flavor.
Tricks for a Tender, Juicy Roast
Achieving a succulent pork loin roast requires careful prep and roasting methods Follow these pointers
- Thoroughly season all sides with spices, herbs or a wet marinade
- Sear the roast before roasting to lock in juices
- Roast at 350°F for even heat distribution
- Use a meat thermometer and remove at 145°F
- Let rest 10-15 minutes before slicing
Proper seasoning and resting are vital to flavor and moisture. Low and slow roasting at moderate heat ensures the inside cooks through without drying out.
Step-by-Step Roasting Method
Follow these simple steps for roasting boneless center cut pork loin to tender perfection
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb boneless center cut pork loin roast
- Olive oil
- Seasoning blend of your choice
Instructions:
-
Preheat oven to 350°F
-
Coat all sides of the roast liberally with olive oil.
-
Apply preferred seasoning blend, pressing into meat. Options include:
- Herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage
- Spice mixes like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika
- Dry rubs with chili powder, brown sugar, cumin
- Wet marinade such as soy sauce, wine, mustard
-
In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear roast on all sides until browned, about 2 minutes per side.
-
Transfer to roasting pan, seared sides up.
-
Roast 25-30 minutes per pound, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
-
Remove roast from oven, tent with foil, and let rest 10-15 minutes.
-
Slice against the grain and serve. Enjoy your tender, juicy roast!
This easy roasting method results in a moist and delicious boneless center cut pork loin every time.
Quicker Roasting Tips
For a faster roast, try these options:
- Roast at 400°F which requires less cook time
- Cut the roast into smaller sections
- Pound to an even thickness for quick, even cooking
Monitor the temperature and remove once it hits 145°F internally. As long as you don’t overcook it, a quicker roast can still be juicy and flavorful.
Succulent Slow-Roasted Loin
For ultimate tenderness, try this slow roast technique:
- Rub a 3-4 lb roast with garlic, rosemary and olive oil
- Place in 300°F oven uncovered
- Roast for 45 minutes per pound
- Baste with pan drippings every 30 minutes
- Cook until internal temp reaches 145°F
- Let rest 15 minutes before carving
The low heat tenderizes the meat for amazing texture. Basting keeps it super moist and infused with flavor.
Grilled Pork Loin Perfection
You can also achieve awesome results by grilling your pork loin:
- Prepare roast as desired with rub or marinade
- Grill over medium heat, rotating every 5 minutes
- Move to cooler part of grill if flaring up
- Grill approximately 8 minutes per pound
- Remove from grill at 145°F and let rest
The hot grill sears the outside while retaining moisture inside. Smoky, crispy exterior with tender and juicy meat!
Handy Pork Loin Roasting Tips
- Choose a roast with a thick, uniform shape for even cooking
- Tie it with cooking twine to maintain shape if needed
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness
- Let rest before slicing for juicier meat
- Slice against the grain for tenderness
- Save the bone and scraps for making stock
Following these simple tricks will help you achieve the perfect boneless center cut pork loin roast.
Incredible Recipe Ideas
A roasted pork loin is extremely versatile. Kick up the flavor with these tasty recipes:
- Maple Dijon Roast Pork – maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme
- Citrus Pork Loin – orange juice, lemon, cilantro, lime zest
- Pesto-Stuffed Pork Loin – basil pesto, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes
- Coffee-Crusted Pork Roast – coffee rub, chipotle, brown sugar, cinnamon
- Apple Cider Pork Loin – apple cider, caramelized apples, rosemary
- Pork Medallions – pork loin sliced into medallions, pan seared
The possibilities are endless! Feel free to get creative with unique spice blends, marinades, stuffings and rubs.
/roasted-boneless-pork-loin-recipe-995289-hero-01-93314ca221a54ecebc45a17e99cb78c4.jpg)
Steps to Make It
- Gather the ingredients.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/roasted-boneless-pork-loin-recipe-995289-step-01-1-b488a682592c42b791e627854ad177ac.jpg)
The Spruce Eats / Diana Chistruga - Remove the pork loin from the fridge 30 minutes before you plan to roast it. Allow it to come to room temperature. Preheat the oven to 450 F. The Spruce Eats / Diana Chistruga .
- Salt, pepper, sage, rosemary, and thyme should all be mixed together in a small bowl until a paste forms. The Spruce Eats / Diana Chistruga .
- Take some paper towels and pat the pork loin dry. Then, rub the seasoning paste all over it. Set it on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. Place a meat thermometer that can go in the oven at an angle in the middle of the roast. Set a digital thermometer that can send you alerts to 135 F if you have one. Transfer the pork to the oven. The Spruce Eats / Diana Chistruga .
- Before you turn down the oven to 300 F, roast for 15 minutes. Let the loin roast for an additional 40 to 60 minutes, or until it reaches 135 F on the inside. The Spruce Eats / Diana Chistruga .
- Take the roast out of the oven and put foil over it. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. After that, the roast’s internal temperature will rise to about 140 F, which means it’s ready to cut. The Spruce Eats / Diana Chistruga .
- When you buy pork loin, pick meat that looks fresh and preferably has a thick layer of fat on it. Meat with fat on it tastes better and stays moist while it’s cooking, even though many people don’t like it.
- The pork should be at room temperature when you cook it, not cold from being in the fridge. Take it out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking and put it somewhere cool, not warm, with a lid on top.
- Make sure to let your meat rest after taking it out of the oven. Resting your meat will let the pork loin cool down a bit, which will keep the juices in and make the dish more tender and flavorful.
Boneless Pork Loin Roast Basics
FAQ
How do you cook a pork loin so it doesn’t dry out?
Is it better to cook a pork loin at 350 or 400?
How is pork loin supposed to be cooked?
How long to cook center cut pork roast per pound?
What is a center cut boneless pork loin roast?
A center cut boneless pork loin roast is a cut of pork from the loin of the pig that has been trimmed of excess fat and bones. It is a lean and tender cut that is perfect for roasting. How should I season a center cut boneless pork loin roast? Seasoning a center cut boneless pork loin roast is all about personal preference.
How do you cook a boneless pork loin roast?
The best way to cook a center cut boneless pork loin roast is to roast it in the oven. Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and then place the roast in a roasting pan. Cook it for about 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
How to keep a center cut boneless pork loin roast moist?
To keep a center cut boneless pork loin roast moist, you can follow a few tips. First, you can sear it on all sides before placing it in the oven to lock in the juices. Additionally, you can baste it with pan drippings or a marinade during the cooking process. Lastly, it’s important to avoid overcooking the roast, as it can lead to dryness.
Can you cook boneless pork loin side up?
Roast pork with the fat cap side up. As it cooks, the fat will drip down the pork loin giving it extra flavor and juiciness. EASY SIDE DISH RECIPES: HOW TO STORE BONELESS PORK LOIN ROAST Serve: Boneless Pork Loin Roast is safe at room temperature for up to 2 hours.