How to Cook a Pork Loin

Here are some great tips and ideas for how to cook a pork loin.

Out of all the cuts of pork, the loin is probably one of the best and juiciest. Only the pork tenderloin is better. However, the tenderloin does have a greater cost. So, if you're splurging, get the tenderloin. If you're being thrifty, the pork loin is a close substitute and will taste tender and juicy as well.

How To Cook

When cooking pork, it's important that it is not overcooked. One of the most common myths is that pork needs to be cooked until it's completely white inside. Usually this means cooking to an internal temperature of 180° F. This is a total misconception that came out of a real concern over contaminated pork decades ago. Back then the USDA came out with recommendations that many followed. Later however, they were proved to be an over reaction.. In reality, bacteria in pork is killed at 137° F. so anything above that temperature should be safe. It's now recommended to cook pork until about 140°F to 145°F. At this temperature, it will be slightly pink inside. Cooking to the recommended 180°F. results in a dried out piece of meat and is not recommended.

Cooking a pork loin can be as complicated or as simple as you make it. There are 2 methods I would use:

1. Roasting In The Oven: Simple place pork in a roasting pan with a small amount of water. Season with salt and pepper, and roast at 350° for 20-30 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 145° F.

2. Grilling: Season the same as for the roasting method above, but instead of roasting in the oven, grill over a gas or coal grill for 20-30 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 145° F.

Some other ideas:

• Top The Pork Loin with Bearnaise Sauce: This sauce is similar to Hollandaise sauce and made from egg yolks and butter. Although you could make it from scratch, an easier method is to buy it in a seasoning packet, such as the ones made by McCormick and whip it up quickly.


• Garlic Seasoning: Cut several slits in top of roast and insert garlic cloves. Roast as usual and remove cloves before serving.


• Stir Fry: Cut pork loin into bite sized chunks. Stir fry in a pan or wok on high heat for 5-10 minutes with fresh vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, celery, asparagus, pea pods or others. Season with salt, pepper, garlic, and teriyaki sauce.


• Brine Before Cooking: Combine all ingredients below for a great vanilla brine taste and boil until ingredients are dissolved. Immerse pork roast in brine for about 12-24 hours, then roast or grill as usual.
• 9 cups hot water
• 2 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup kosher salt
• 2 Tbsp. cracked peppercorns

This brine is BY FAR my favorite recipe for how to cook a pork loin. Try it. I know you'll love it as I do.

How to Cook a Pork Loin

Tony VM - The Website Warrior
For more information on cooking pork, including grades of pork, how to choose the right cut and more, visit The Cooking Pork Guide.

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