Grilling a pork loin roast is a fantastic way to enjoy a juicy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or trying it for the first time, this guide will walk you through the steps to grill a pork loin roast that’s tender, smoky, and delicious.
What You Need to Know Before Grilling
Pork loin is a lean cut of meat that benefits from careful cooking to avoid drying out. The key to grilling a perfect pork loin roast is managing the heat and cooking it to the right internal temperature-145°F is the safe and ideal target for juicy pork.
Preparing Your Pork Loin Roast
- Trim and Dry
Start by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the pork loin. Pat it dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick and to promote a good sear.
- Seasoning
You can keep it simple with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or create a flavorful rub with brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Coat the pork loin evenly with your rub or seasoning blend, making sure to cover all sides.
- Optional Marinating
For extra flavor and tenderness, marinate the pork loin for 8 to 24 hours. A marinade with ingredients like 7-Up, olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and thyme works wonderfully to infuse the meat.
Setting Up Your Grill
– Two-Zone Cooking
Prepare your grill with two zones: one side for direct heat and the other for indirect heat. On a gas grill, turn on one side to medium-high heat and leave the other side off. For charcoal grills, arrange the coals on one side only.
– Preheat the Grill
Heat the grill to about 375°F to 400°F. Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grilling the Pork Loin Roast
- Searing
Place the pork loin over the direct heat side of the grill. Sear it for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until it develops a nice browned crust. This step locks in juices and adds flavor.
- Move to Indirect Heat
After searing, move the pork loin to the indirect heat side of the grill. Close the lid and let it cook slowly. The total cooking time is roughly 20 minutes per pound, usually about 1 to 1.5 hours for a typical roast.
- Monitor the Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. When it reaches 145°F, the pork loin is perfectly cooked-juicy and safe to eat.
- Optional Glazing
About 10 minutes before the pork is done, you can brush on a glaze like orange marmalade or a BBQ sauce to add a sweet and tangy finish. Baste both sides and let it caramelize slightly on the grill.
Resting and Serving
Once off the grill, let the pork loin rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat tender and easier to slice. Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.
Tips for Success
– Tie the roast if it’s uneven in thickness to ensure even cooking.
– Rotate the roast every 15-30 minutes to cook it evenly on all sides, especially on charcoal grills.
– Keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain consistent heat and smoky flavor.
– Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness. Pork loin is lean and best enjoyed juicy.
Grilling a pork loin roast is straightforward with a little preparation and attention to heat control. Follow these steps, and you’ll impress your family and friends with a delicious, perfectly grilled pork loin every time. Enjoy your grilling adventure!