Are you craving a juicy, flavorful pork loin but short on time? This pellet grill recipe delivers tender, smoky perfection without the fuss. Forget complicated marinades and hours of babysitting; this easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or a relaxed weekend meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unbelievably delicious and surprisingly simple dish!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb boneless pork loin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Your favorite pellet grill wood (apple, hickory, or pecan work well)
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Loin:
- Pat it dry: Begin by patting the pork loin dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a nice sear.
- Season generously: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork loin, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Cooking on the Pellet Grill:
- Preheat your grill: Preheat your pellet grill to 275°F (135°C). Let it reach temperature before placing the pork loin on the grill.
- Place on the grill: Place the seasoned pork loin directly on the grill grates.
- Cook low and slow: Close the grill lid and cook for approximately 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer. Remember to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork loin from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork loin. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Pellet Grill Success:
- Use a meat thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring the pork loin is cooked to a safe internal temperature. Don't rely solely on time, as cooking times can vary depending on the size and thickness of the pork loin.
- Don't open the lid frequently: Resist the urge to constantly open the grill lid while cooking. Each time you open it, you release heat and can affect the cooking time and temperature.
- Experiment with wood pellets: Different wood pellets impart unique flavors. Try apple for a sweeter taste, hickory for a smoky flavor, or pecan for a nutty aroma.
Variations:
- Citrus Glaze: For an extra burst of flavor, brush the pork loin with a citrus glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking. A simple glaze can be made with orange juice, honey, and soy sauce.
- Herb Rub: Customize your spice rub by adding other herbs and spices such as rosemary, sage, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.
- Apple Cider Injection: For even more moisture and flavor, inject the pork loin with apple cider before cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 2-3g
This delicious pork loin recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both quick and incredibly flavorful. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, and remember to share your culinary creations!