Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This pork loin with roasted potatoes recipe is a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. It’s a complete meal in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing deliciousness. This recipe delivers a juicy, perfectly seasoned pork loin alongside crispy, golden-brown potatoes – the ultimate combination of comfort food and healthy eating. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless pork loin roast
- 2 lbs small red potatoes, halved or quartered (depending on size)
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp dried rosemary
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your potatoes roast to perfection and your pork cooks evenly.
Prepare the Ingredients:
-
Wash and cut the potatoes. Halve or quarter them depending on size, aiming for roughly uniform pieces for even cooking.
-
Mince the garlic and cut the onion into wedges. Preparing your ingredients beforehand streamlines the cooking process.
Season and Roast:
-
In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly coated.
-
Place the seasoned potatoes and onions in a single layer in a large roasting pan. This helps them crisp up beautifully.
-
Place the pork loin roast on top of the vegetables.
-
Roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the potatoes are tender and golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked through.
Rest and Serve:
-
Once cooked, remove the pork loin from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
-
Slice the pork loin and serve it alongside the roasted potatoes and onions.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Dish:
- For extra crispy potatoes, consider parboiling them for 5-7 minutes before roasting. This helps to create a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior.
- Don't overcrowd the roasting pan. Ensure the potatoes and onions are in a single layer to allow for even browning.
- A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. Italian seasoning, paprika, or garlic powder would all be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Add some vegetables: Include other root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrients.
- Citrus zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the seasoning mix for a bright, citrusy note.
- Different herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like sage or oregano instead of, or in addition to, rosemary and thyme.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving would include:
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This simple and delicious pork loin with roasted potatoes recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy this quick dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend evenings! It’s a testament to how homemade cooking can be both flavorful and satisfying. This is truly one of the best recipes for a complete and comforting meal.