Pork Loin Roast with Gravy is a comforting, hearty dish that is perfect for family gatherings and special occasions. This succulent roast is seasoned to perfection, slow-cooked to retain its moisture, and served with a luscious homemade gravy that elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. The combination of tender pork and rich, savory gravy makes this recipe not only a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making it an ideal centerpiece for any dinner table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Pork Loin Roast with Gravy for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The pork loin is naturally tender and juicy, and when seasoned with garlic, herbs, and a splash of broth, it transforms into a mouthwatering main course. Plus, it’s a relatively hands-off recipe—simply season, roast, and let the oven do the work for you. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions, giving you the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Tips and Tricks
- Sear for Flavor: Before roasting, sear the pork loin in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side. This caramelizes the meat and enhances the overall flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your pork loin is perfectly cooked without being dry, invest in a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for juicy results.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the pork loin rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist roast.
- Gravy Boost: Use the drippings from the roast to make your gravy. This adds depth and richness to the sauce, making it more flavorful.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time. Season the pork loin and let it marinate in the refrigerator overnight to enhance flavor. Additionally, the gravy can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. The roasted pork can also be sliced and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it great for meal prep.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to complement the pork. Each herb brings a unique flavor profile to the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning blend for a slight kick.
- Cooking Methods: Try cooking the pork loin in a slow cooker for a set-it-and-forget-it approach, or use an Instant Pot for a quick and tender result.
- Fruit Additions: Incorporate fruit like apples or peaches in the roasting pan for a sweet contrast to the savory pork.
How to Serve
Serve the Pork Loin Roast sliced into thick pieces, drizzled generously with the rich gravy. Pair it with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top adds a pop of color and freshness. For an elegant touch, serve in a shallow bowl with the gravy pooled around the pork, enhancing the visual appeal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a well-balanced red wine such as Pinot Noir or a full-bodied white like Chardonnay. If you prefer cocktails, a classic whiskey sour complements the flavors beautifully. For side dishes, buttery mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans are perfect accompaniments. End the meal with a simple dessert like apple pie or a chocolate mousse for a delightful finish.
How to Store
Store any leftover Pork Loin Roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the roast for up to 3 months. For best results, slice the pork before freezing, and ensure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Equipment Needed
- Roasting Pan: A sturdy roasting pan is essential for even cooking. If you don’t have one, a baking sheet with raised edges can work as an alternative.
- Meat Thermometer: This tool is crucial for checking doneness. An instant-read thermometer ensures accuracy.
- Skillet: You’ll need a skillet for searing the pork before roasting. A cast iron skillet works wonderfully, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will suffice.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the gravy. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter. If you need to make it nut-free, ensure all ingredients are checked for cross-contamination. Unfortunately, this recipe isn’t suitable for vegan diets due to the nature of the ingredients, but a plant-based meat substitute could be used in place of pork for a similar cooking method.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, consider adding seasonal ingredients such as butternut squash or apples to the roasting pan for added flavor. In the spring, fresh asparagus or peas can brighten up the dish, making it feel fresh and vibrant. During summer, serve with a light salad of arugula and citrus to balance the richness of the pork.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use pork tenderloin instead of pork loin? Yes, but pork tenderloin cooks faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly—about 20-25 minutes at 145°F.
- What can I substitute for the gravy base? Chicken or vegetable broth can be used instead of the drippings for a lighter sauce.
- How long should I cook a pork loin roast? A general rule is to cook it for about 25 minutes per pound at 375°F.
- Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the pork and gravy ahead of time and reheat before serving.
Pork Loin Roast with Gravy
Pork Loin Roast with Gravy is a comforting, hearty dish that is perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2-3 lb pork loin roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Pork: Pat the pork loin roast dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the roast, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
- Sear the Pork: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the pork loin on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds flavor.
- Roast: Transfer the seared pork to a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth around the pork, then place it in the preheated oven. Roast for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Make the Gravy: Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest. In the same skillet used for searing, add the drippings and heat over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour (or cornstarch) and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the remaining chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened. Season to taste.
- Slice and Serve: After the pork has rested for 10-15 minutes, slice it into thick pieces. Serve drizzled with the gravy and garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 700Total Fat 34gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 18gCholesterol 273mgSodium 538mgCarbohydrates 4gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 91g
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.
Final Thoughts
Pork Loin Roast with Gravy is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families together and creates lasting memories around the dinner table. With its straightforward preparation and incredible flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your loved ones, serve up this delightful roast, and enjoy the smiles and compliments that are sure to follow! Happy cooking!
