Traeger Pork Loin – Smoky, Juicy, and Full of Flavor

This Traeger Pork Loin is a succulent and flavorful dish that showcases the beauty of smoked meats. The pork loin is seasoned with a delightful blend of spices and herbs, then cooked to perfection on a Traeger grill, infusing it with rich, smoky flavors that elevate the natural sweetness of the pork. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for a hearty, delicious meal.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will love this recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The Traeger grill allows for a hands-off cooking experience with consistent heat and smoke, ensuring your pork loin comes out juicy and tender every time. This recipe fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle, as pork loin is a lean cut of meat that can be incorporated into a balanced diet. Plus, the seasoning is customizable, so you can adapt it to suit your flavor preferences.

Tips and Tricks

• Marinate for Flavor: For maximum flavor, marinate the pork loin overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Pork loin is best when cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.
• Rest the Meat: Let the pork loin rest for at least 10-15 minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps retain the juices, making for a moist and tender final product.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking: One of the biggest mistakes is cooking the pork loin too long, which can lead to dryness. Keep an eye on the internal temperature.
• Ignoring the Resting Time: Cutting into the pork loin immediately after cooking can cause the juices to run out, resulting in a dry piece of meat.
• Inconsistent Seasoning: Ensure that you season the pork loin evenly. A good rub should coat the entire surface to enhance the flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

• You can prepare the spice rub up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container.
• If marinating the pork loin, you can do this up to 24 hours before cooking for enhanced flavor.
• Leftover pork loin can be sliced and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Recipe Variations

• Different Marinades: Try using a honey mustard glaze, teriyaki sauce, or even a spicy barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Swaps: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage for a unique twist on the seasoning.
• Alternate Cooking Methods: If you don’t have a Traeger, you can also roast the pork loin in the oven or sear it in a cast iron skillet before finishing it in the oven.

How to Serve

Slice the pork loin into thick, juicy pieces and arrange them on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or rosemary, for a pop of color. Serve with sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad to complement the rich flavors of the pork.

Pairing Suggestions

For drink pairings, consider a medium-bodied red wine like a Pinot Noir or a light lager for beer lovers. A refreshing iced tea with lemon also pairs well, as does a classic side of coleslaw. Finish the meal with a light dessert, such as a fruit tart or sorbet, to cleanse the palate.

How to Store

Store leftover pork loin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Equipment Needed

• Traeger grill (or another type of smoker)
• Meat thermometer
• Mixing bowls for seasoning
• Plastic wrap or a resealable bag for marinating

Dietary Adaptations

For those looking to make the recipe allergen-friendly, consider using gluten-free spices and marinades. If you want to reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce or make your own marinade with fresh ingredients. To make it dairy-free, ensure all ingredients used are free from dairy.

Seasonal Adaptations

During the summer months, consider adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the grill alongside the pork loin for a complete meal. In the fall, you can incorporate spices like cinnamon and nutmeg into your rub for a warming, seasonal flavor.

Cost Breakdown

The estimated cost for making this Traeger pork loin recipe is around $15-20 for a 2-3 pound loin, serving approximately 6-8 people. Budget-friendly swaps include using less expensive herbs or purchasing meat on sale.

Kitchen Hacks

• To make slicing easier, use a sharp carving knife and cut against the grain of the meat.
• Use a zester or microplane to quickly grate garlic for your marinade instead of mincing.
• Keep your workspace clean by using a garbage bowl to collect scraps while you prep.

Recipe FAQs

• Can I use a different cut of pork? Yes, you can substitute pork tenderloin or pork shoulder, but cooking times may vary.
• What if I don’t have a Traeger? You can use a conventional grill or an oven, but you may miss out on the smoky flavor.
• How long should I marinate the pork? Ideally, marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.

How To Make traeger pork loin recipe

Yield: 8

Traeger Pork Loin

Print

This Traeger Pork Loin is a succulent and flavorful dish that showcases the beauty of smoked meats. The pork loin is seasoned with a delightful blend of spices and herbs, then cooked to perfection on a Traeger grill, infusing it with rich, smoky flavors that elevate the natural sweetness of the pork. 

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 2 hours

Additional Time 4 hours

Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 2-3 pounds pork loin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon cumin (optional)

Instructions

1. Begin by mixing the olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, thyme, and cumin in a bowl to create a rub.
2. Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels, then apply the rub evenly across the entire surface of the meat
3. Place the seasoned pork loin in a resealable bag or wrap it in plastic wrap, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F.
5. Once the grill is preheated, place the pork loin directly on the grill grates and close the lid.
6. Smoke the pork loin for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
7. Remove the pork loin from the grill and tent it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
8. Slice the pork loin against the grain and serve

Nutrition Information

Yield

8

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 378Total Fat 19gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 136mgSodium 875mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 1gSugar 3gProtein 45g

Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.

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Final Thoughts

This Traeger pork loin recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your grilling game. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings and sides to make this dish your own. Happy grilling!