Roast Pork Loin
A simple and forgiving roast pork loin recipe that yields juicy results with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknight dinners and leftovers.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2-3 pounds Pork loin Choose a 2-3 pound cut for optimal cooking times.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For rubbing the pork.
- 2 teaspoons Salt Adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper Freshly ground is best.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced Add more if you like garlic.
- 1-2 teaspoons Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme) Optional, but recommended for added flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels to ensure a golden crust.
- Let the pork sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes while the oven preheats.
- Rub the pork loin with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Add fresh herbs if using.
Cooking
- Sear the pork loin in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side to build flavor.
- Transfer the seared pork to a baking dish and roast at 400°F.
- Cook for approximately 22-25 minutes per pound, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer aiming for 145°F.
- Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to settle.
Notes
Leftovers can be used for sandwiches or salads. You can prep the pork the night before by rubbing with seasonings and storing in the fridge.