This Quick Savory Cranberry Glazed Pork Loin Roast is a tasty dish that’s sweet, tangy, and simply delicious! The cranberry glaze adds a lovely pop of flavor that makes it special.
It’s easy to whip up too! Just roast the pork, slather on the glaze, and you have a meal that impresses without the fuss. Perfect for busy days or family gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin: This is the star of the dish! Look for a nice 2 to 3 lb pork loin with a little marbling for flavor. If you can’t find pork loin, a pork tenderloin or even chicken breast could work.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are perfect for this recipe, but frozen works great too! If you’re in a pinch, try using cranberry sauce from a can, but be mindful of the added sugar.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives a delicious depth to the glaze. You could substitute red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if you don’t have it. Both will still bring a nice tang!
Brown Sugar: For sweetness, brown sugar is ideal. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, you can swap it for honey or maple syrup, but adjust the amount slightly.
Spices: Garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary add great flavor. You can replace dried herbs with fresh ones for a brighter taste, just double the amount!
How Do You Ensure the Pork Loin Is Juicy and Tender?
Getting juicy pork loin is all about cooking it correctly! The key steps include:
- Pat it dry: This helps get a nice sear. Moisture can prevent browning!
- Searing: Don’t skip this! Brown on all sides in a hot pan to lock in juices and flavor before roasting.
- Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfect, juicy pork. Timing can vary, so monitor it closely.
- Resting: Let it sit for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a tender slice.
Quick Savory Cranberry Glazed Pork Loin Roast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 to 3 lb pork loin roast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup water or orange juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
Time Needed:
This dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and approximately 25 minutes to roast, for a total of around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious meal option, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough to give your pork a lovely sear and roast perfectly.
2. Season the Pork Loin:
Take the pork loin and pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps in getting a nice golden crust! Then, season it generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs if you’re using them. Make sure to cover all sides for maximum flavor!
3. Sear the Pork:
In an oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork loin and sear it on all sides until golden brown. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t rush this step—it really boosts the flavor!
4. Make the Cranberry Glaze:
While the pork is searing, mix together the cranberries, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, water (or orange juice), Dijon mustard, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Stir well until combined; this glaze will add a delicious sweetness and tang to your roast.
5. Add the Glaze:
Once the pork is nicely seared, remove it from heat and pour the prepared cranberry glaze evenly over the top of the pork. This will infuse the roast with rich flavors as it cooks!
6. Roast the Pork:
Carefully transfer the pan to the preheated oven. Roast the pork for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
7. Baste for Extra Flavor:
About halfway through roasting, take a spoon and baste some of the glaze over the pork. This keeps it moist and enhances the flavor throughout the cooking process.
8. Rest the Roast:
Once finished, remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making every slice tender and juicy!
9. Serve It Up:
Slice the pork loin into medium-thick pieces and serve with the cranberry glaze generously spooned on top or on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
This recipe yields a juicy, savory pork roast with a vibrant, tangy cranberry glaze that’s quick and easy enough for any weeknight meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork loin is ideal, you can substitute with pork tenderloin or even chicken breast. Just adjust cooking times as needed; chicken will take a bit longer to reach safe internal temperatures.
Can I Make the Cranberry Glaze in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the cranberry glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it gently before using it with the pork or any other dish!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Loin?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the oven or microwave, making sure not to overcook it to maintain its juiciness.
What Should I Serve with Cranberry Glazed Pork Loin?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You could also serve it with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious glaze!
