The BEST Roasted Pork Loin Recipe

I recently crafted a pork dish that brings together savory and sweet in a memorable balance. My pork loin is rubbed with garlic, salt, and pepper then paired with honey and soy sauce for a glossy glaze. This Best Pork Loin Recipe is bound to pique your curiosity about the exceptional flavors ahead.

I’ve been experimenting with pork loin recipes for a while now and I think I’ve finally nailed one of the BEST Roasted Pork Loin recipes ever. This Honey Garlic Glazed Pork Loin Roast really delivers when it comes to juicy, succulent, fork tender pork that just practically melts in your mouth.

I use 2 to 3 lbs pork loin that I first trim of any excess fat, then season with a tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of black pepper for that simple kick. I also toss in 4 cloves of garlic that’s been minced, 1/4 cup honey and 1/4 cup soy sauce – it creates an amazing glaze.

A couple of tbsp of olive oil and a touch of dried thyme and rosemary add even more depth to the flavor. I was inspired by some great pork recipes out there and let me tell ya, this one quickly became one of my favorites.

Enjoy giving it a try and savor every bite!

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I really love how this recipe makes the pork super juicy and tender, especially after basting it every 15 minutes. It’s wild how such a simple process can turn meat into something so flavorful.
2. The mix of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a glaze that’s both sweet and savory, and I honestly can’t get enough of that tasty combination.
3. I appreciate that it’s easy enough to follow, even if I’m not the best cook. The steps are pretty simple and it doesn’t take forever to put together.
4. Plus, it’s a recipe that always impresses my friends and family, which makes cooking it even more fun despite my occasional kitchen slip-ups.

Ingredients

• Pork Loin: lean protein that makes the dish hearty and satisfying.
• Garlic: adds bold, zesty flavor and is packed with antioxidants.
• Honey: gives natural sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• Soy Sauce: provides deep umami and a hint of saltiness.
• Olive Oil: offers heart healthy fats and helps brown the meat.
• Dried Thyme and Rosemary: bring subtle earthy herbal notes to the roast.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 to 3 lbs pork loin, trimmed of excess fat
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• 1 tsp dried rosemary (optional)

How to Make this

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a roasting pan with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Pat your pork loin dry with a paper towel then season it thoroughly with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.

3. Rub the minced garlic all over the pork, making sure it’s evenly spread.

4. In a small bowl combine 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp olive oil, and if you’re using them, the 1 tsp dried thyme and 1 tsp dried rosemary.

5. Brush some of this honey garlic glaze over the pork loin making sure every goop stick is covered.

6. Place the pork in the prepared roasting pan and pop it in the oven.

7. Roast the pork for about 45-55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F, basting it with the glaze every 15 minutes so it stays juicy.

8. Once done, take the pork out and let it rest for 10 minutes so the juices redistribute.

9. Slice and serve with your favorite sides, enjoy your tender and flavorful meal!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven preheated to 400°F
2. Roasting pan lined with foil or parchment paper
3. Paper towels for drying the pork
4. A small mixing bowl for the glaze
5. Basting brush to apply the honey garlic glaze
6. Meat thermometer to make sure it reaches 145°F
7. Knife and cutting board for slicing the pork

FAQ

The BEST Roasted Pork Loin Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you don’t have pork loin, you could use pork tenderloin. It’s leaner and cooks up similarly.
• If you run out of honey, try using maple syrup or agave nectar for that sweet touch.
• No tamari sauce? Regular soy sauce works fine or you could use coconut aminos if you prefer something different.
• If olive oil isn’t available, avocado oil is a good substitute with a mild flavor.
• Don’t have fresh garlic? You can use garlic powder instead, just use less since it’s more intense.

Pro Tips

1. Try marinating your pork in half of the honey garlic mixture for a couple hours or even overnight if you can, it really helps the flavors sink in deep.
2. When you’re basting, be careful not to overdo it or the glaze might burn a little; you want that nice sticky coating without turning it too dark.
3. Let the pork rest for at least 10 minutes after you take it out of the oven so all the juices settle in – cutting it too early can make it dry and messy.