Stuffed pork loin is a fantastic way to elevate a dinner, whether for a special occasion or a cozy family meal. This dish combines juicy, tender pork with a flavorful filling that can be customized to your taste. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook a stuffed pork loin, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, making it easy and enjoyable.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
First, it’s important to know that pork loin and pork tenderloin are different cuts. Pork loin is larger and wider, perfect for stuffing and roasting, while tenderloin is smaller and leaner. For stuffing, pork loin is the ideal choice because it can be butterflied and rolled around the filling.
Ingredients for a Classic Stuffed Pork Loin
Here’s a basic list to get you started, but feel free to get creative:
– Boneless pork loin (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
– Salt, garlic powder, and black pepper for seasoning
– Prosciutto slices or bacon (optional for extra flavor)
– Fresh spinach or other greens
– Mushrooms, finely chopped
– Garlic and shallots, minced
– Cheese like mozzarella or Gruyere
– Roasted red peppers or pickled peppers
– Olive oil
– Fresh herbs like thyme (optional)
– Mustard (Dijon works well)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Loin
Start by removing the silver skin from the pork loin. Then, place the pork on a cutting board and butterfly it by slicing lengthwise, but not all the way through, so it opens like a book. To make the meat even and easier to roll, cover it with plastic wrap and gently pound it with a meat tenderizer until it’s about half an inch thick.
2. Make the Filling
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic and shallots until fragrant, then add the chopped mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender. Stir in fresh spinach and herbs, cooking until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat and mix in your choice of cheese. This mixture will be the delicious stuffing that makes the pork loin special.
3. Stuff and Roll the Pork
Season the inside of the butterflied pork with salt, pepper, and a thin layer of mustard for extra flavor. Spread the mushroom and spinach filling evenly over the meat. If using prosciutto or bacon, layer it on top of the filling. Carefully roll the pork loin back up, starting from one end, into a tight log. Secure it with kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep the stuffing inside while cooking.
4. Sear the Pork
Heat some olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the rolled pork loin on all sides until it’s golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a beautiful color and flavor to the meat.
5. Roast in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the skillet with the seared pork loin to the oven. Roast for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F (60-63°C) for juicy, perfectly cooked pork. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Once done, tent the pork with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices redistribute, making the meat tender and juicy.
6. Optional: Make a Simple Gravy
While the pork rests, use the pan drippings to make a quick gravy. Melt butter in a small saucepan, whisk in flour to make a roux, then slowly add chicken stock and the drippings. Stir until smooth and thickened, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This gravy pairs beautifully with the stuffed pork loin.
Tips for Success
– Butterflying the pork loin carefully ensures even thickness for rolling and cooking.
– Don’t overstuff the pork; a thin, even layer of filling works best.
– Secure the roll well with twine or toothpicks to prevent the filling from spilling out.
– Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and keep the pork juicy.
– Rest the meat after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
Variations to Try
– Swap out the filling ingredients: try apples and walnuts for a sweet crunch or sun-dried tomatoes and feta for a Mediterranean twist.
– Wrap the stuffed pork loin in bacon before searing for extra flavor and moisture.
– Use different cheeses like cheddar, goat cheese, or blue cheese depending on your preference.
Stuffed pork loin is a versatile and impressive dish that’s easier to prepare than you might think. With a few simple steps, you can create a flavorful, juicy main course that will wow your guests and satisfy your family. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results!