Delicious Ways to Cook Pork Loin

Pork Loin May Be Cooked as a Roast or Sliced Into Boneless Chops

By
Peggy Trowbridge Filippone
Peggy Trowbridge Filippone
Peggy Trowbridge Filippone is a writer who develops approachable recipes for home cooks. Her recipes range from Grandma’s favorites to the latest food trends.
Learn about The Spruce Eats' Editorial Process
Updated on 10/2/19
Boneless pork loin roast
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They may sound very similar, but don't confuse pork loin with pork tenderloin -- pork loin is not as tender but makes a wonderful boneless roast. It may also be sliced into boneless chops. Whole boneless pork loin is fairly inexpensive, especially if you purchase from warehouse stores such as Costco. To get the most out of your purchase, buy a whole loin and cut it in half -- use one-half as a roast and slice the other into 1 1/2-inch thick pork loin chops. Pound the chops down to a 1-inch thickness, reshape, then individually portion and wrap to freeze. A tip: Always let meat thaw slowly in the refrigerator so it reabsorbs its juices. Try one of these delicious pork loin recipes for dinner tonight:

  • 01 of 05

    Pepper Jelly Pork Roast Recipe

    This method ​ensures a flavorful and tender pork loin roast with a spicy sweet finish. It is quite easy and requires little attention. You may substitute orange marmalade or seedless raspberry jelly mixed with 1/4 teaspoon ground chipotle chile pepper or cayenne pepper for the pepper jelly. If you do not care for spicy foods at all, use orange marmalade, apple or apricot jelly and omit the chile pepper. Plan ahead so the roast is at room temperature before you begin.

  • 02 of 05

    Apple Cider Pork Loin Recipe

    Pork loin is marinated in apple cider, then rubbed with a spice mix and roasted. The result is a tender, juicy pork roast with little fuss. The chipotle chile pepper adds just a slight kick to the spice rub. If you do not care for spicy foods, simply omit the chipotle. Plan ahead to marinate the pork loin roast overnight. If you really feel festive, substitute apple brandy for half of the cider.

  • 03 of 05

    Garlic Ginger Pork Roast Recipe

    Boneless pork loin roast is studded with garlic and then marinated in a fresh garlic, ginger, onion, and honey mixture. The result is a wonderful gentle flavoring of garlic and ginger. If you like a stronger flavor, feel free to increase those two main marinade ingredients. The recipe is easily doubled. Here, a whole pork loin roast is cut it in half and tied together, one on top of the other, for a larger roast.

  • 04 of 05

    Pork Loin Chops with Fig Sauce Recipe

    The spicy sweetness of the chipotle pepper blends beautifully with the figs to give a little kick to the pan gravy which is also flavored with onions, garlic, and thyme. However, you may omit the chipotle pepper if you wish. Prepare all your ingredients in advance, as this comes together quickly.

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  • 05 of 05

    Pork Loin Steaks with Pineapple Sauce Recipe

    Pineapple goes with fresh pork as well as it does with ham. The pineapple sauce is a quick and easy pan gravy. Some boneless pork loin chops can be a bit tough to the bite. Simply place between sheets of plastic wrap and lightly pound with the flat side of a meat mallet to tenderize. Reshape and proceed with the recipe. And remember, there is no need to overcook pork -- it cooks quickly, making it a perfect main for busy weeknights.