Imagine a dish that transforms an ordinary pork loin into a culinary masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds. This Apple Roasted Pork Loin is not just a meal; it's an experience that marries the rich, tender meat with the sweet and tangy essence of perfectly roasted apples. Each bite promises a symphony of flavors that dance between savory and sweet, making this recipe a guaranteed showstopper for any occasion from weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lb pork loin
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp rosemary
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Remove the pork loin from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear and crust.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, salt, black pepper, and rosemary to create a seasoning rub. Thoroughly coat the entire pork loin with this mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin on all sides until a golden-brown crust forms, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Slice the apples and onions into thin, uniform pieces. Arrange them around the seared pork loin in the skillet or transfer everything to a roasting pan.
- Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan, which will help keep the meat moist and create a flavorful base for potential gravy.
- Transfer the skillet or roasting pan to the preheated oven. Roast the pork loin for approximately 1 hour and 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Slice the pork loin against the grain into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Serve with the roasted apples and onions, spooning some of the pan juices over the meat.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork loin rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Sear: Use paper towels to remove moisture from the pork loin, which helps achieve that gorgeous golden-brown crust.
- Invest in a Meat Thermometer: Don't guess your cooking time! A meat thermometer ensures your pork is perfectly cooked at 145°F (63°C).
- Slice Against the Grain: When serving, always slice the pork loin against the grain to maximize tenderness.
- Let it Rest: Patience is crucial! Allowing the meat to rest 10-15 minutes after cooking helps redistribute juices, keeping the pork incredibly moist.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select crisp, firm apples and a high-quality pork loin for the best flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 282kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 37g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 73mg
