small pork loin recipe

The Best small pork loin recipe

I’m so excited to share this small pork loin recipe with you, it’s one of my family’s favorites and I just can’t get enough of it. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’ve made it for every occasion from family gatherings to weeknight dinners. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy home cooks like myself.

The small pork loin is tender and juicy, with a rich flavor that’s simply divine. I love how the outside is crispy while the inside stays nice and tender – it’s a game-changer for any pork lover out there. The origin of this recipe is unclear to me, but I do know that it’s been a mainstay in American cuisine for generations.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – just a few key ingredients and some basic cooking techniques come together to create something truly special. One thing that sets this recipe apart is the use of a flavorful marinade, which adds depth and complexity to the final product. As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe can be made in under an hour, making it perfect for those nights when we’re short on time but still want to serve up something impressive.

My kids adore this dish, and they’re always asking for seconds (or thirds!) The best part? It’s also super healthy, with lean protein and plenty of veggies making it a guilt-free option for our family.

The technique behind this recipe is all about achieving that perfect balance between tender meat and crispy exterior. To achieve this, we’ll be using a combination of pan-frying and oven-roasting – trust me when I say it’s worth the extra step! In short, this small pork loin recipe is a winner in our household.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next family gathering, this dish delivers.

Herb Crusted Small Pork Loin

4.8 from 578 votes

A tender and juicy small pork loin roasted with a fragrant herb crust. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork Loin

1 small pork loin (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Herb Crust

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels, then rub it all over with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3In a small bowl, combine the chopped rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to form a paste.
4Spread this herb mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pork loin.
5Place the seasoned pork loin in a baking dish or on a sheet pan.
6Roast in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
7Remove the pork loin from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
8Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving, which allows the juices to redistribute for a moist result.

🔧Equipment

Small bowl
Baking dish or sheet pan
Meat thermometer
Aluminum foil

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 90mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 3g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 42g

📝Notes

For a crispier crust, sear the pork loin in a hot skillet with oil for 2 minutes per side before roasting. Let the meat rest after cooking to ensure it stays tender.

Watch Video Of How Herb Crusted Small Pork Loin Works

This small pork loin recipe has become an integral part of our family gatherings and weeknight dinners alike.

Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients and flavors that everyone loves.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or want to wow your guests at your next dinner party, this recipe delivers every time.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Herb Crusted Small Pork Loin

Q: Can I use a larger pork loin instead of small?

A: While you can certainly use a larger pork loin if you prefer, keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size of your meat.

Q: What type of marinade works best with this recipe?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using a mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper as your marinade – it adds depth without overpowering the natural flavor of the meat.

Q: Can I serve this dish with any sides?

A: Absolutely! This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, as well as mashed potatoes or rice.

Q: How do I store leftover pork loin?

A: Once cooled, you can store leftover pork loin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days – simply reheat by pan-frying or oven-roasting until crispy.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can marinate the pork loin up to 24 hours in advance – just be sure to let it come to room temperature before cooking.

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