Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious dinner recipe that the whole family will love? Look no further! This recipe for pork loin with potatoes is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor or ease of preparation. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, transforming simple ingredients into a truly special dish. This recipe is perfect for those searching for easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless pork loin, trimmed of excess fat
- 1.5 lbs small red potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your pork loin and potatoes cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
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Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop all your vegetables according to the ingredient list. Make sure the potatoes are roughly the same size for even cooking.
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Season the pork loin: Generously rub the pork loin with olive oil, then sprinkle with rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
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Combine everything: In a large roasting pan or baking dish, toss the potatoes, onions, and carrots with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the seasoned pork loin on top of the vegetables. Scatter the minced garlic over the vegetables and pork.
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Add broth: Pour the chicken (or vegetable) broth into the bottom of the pan. This will help keep the vegetables moist and add extra flavor to the dish.
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Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the pork loin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the potatoes are tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked through.
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Rest: 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 pork loin.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pork Loin:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the potatoes and the pork loin for even browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature. Undercooked pork can be dangerous.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more herbs, spices, or garlic to suit your preference. A pinch of paprika or smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky flavor.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts to this recipe for added variety.
Variations:
- Garlic and Herb Pork Loin: Increase the amount of garlic and add fresh herbs like parsley or sage.
- Maple-Glazed Pork Loin: During the last 15 minutes of cooking, brush the pork loin with a maple syrup glaze for a touch of sweetness.
- Spicy Pork Loin: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This pork loin recipe with potatoes is a simple yet elegant meal perfect for any occasion. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious dinner that is easy to customize to your tastes. Enjoy!