One Pan Honey Garlic Pork Loin
Savory, sticky, and oh-so-easy! This honey garlic pork loin is your new weeknight favorite—all in just one pan! A mouthwatering blend of sweet and garlicky goodness
Ingredients:
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1.5–2 lb pork loin
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup honey
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3 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1/2 tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 cup baby carrots
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1 cup baby potatoes, halved
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the pork loin
Pat pork loin dry and season all sides with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
(Duration: 5 minutes) -
Sear for flavor
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin on all sides until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side).
(Duration: 10 minutes) -
Make the honey garlic sauce
In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar. Pour over the seared pork loin.
(Duration: 3 minutes) -
Add veggies
Arrange baby carrots and halved baby potatoes around the pork in the same pan, coating them lightly with the sauce.
(Duration: 5 minutes) -
Roast it to perfection
Transfer the pan to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Roast uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
(Duration: 30 minutes) -
Rest and serve
Let pork rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Spoon sauce over slices for extra flavor!
(Duration: 10 minutes)
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 370 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
How to Make One Pan Honey Garlic Pork Loin – Step-by-Step Guide
Looking for a simple yet impressive dinner recipe that’s quick to make? Imagine a tender pork loin smothered in a sweet honey garlic sauce. It’s all cooked in one skillet.
This one pan honey garlic pork loin recipe is great for any night or a big event. With a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready fast.
Key Takeaways
- Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
- Cooked in one pan for convenience
- Tender pork loin with a rich honey garlic glaze
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
- Step-by-step guide for a stress-free cooking experience
The Perfect One Pan Meal: Why Honey Garlic Pork Loin Is a Weeknight Winner
Weeknight meals often need to be quick and tasty. Honey garlic pork loin fits the bill perfectly. It’s a one-pan dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor.
Time-Saving Benefits of One-Pan Cooking
One-pan cooking saves time and makes cleanup easier. It cooks your pork loin and veggies in one skillet. This is great for busy weeknights when you’re short on time.
Flavor Profile of Honey Garlic Glaze
The honey garlic glaze is what makes this dish special. It’s sweet and savory, creating a rich, caramelized crust on the pork. This glaze also keeps the pork loin moist and tender.
Adding a skillet pork loin recipe to your dinner plans can be a big help. It’s an easy pork loin skillet option that’s both tasty and convenient. It’s a true one skillet wonder.
Delicious Honey Garlic Pork Loin – One Skillet Wonder!
This one pan honey garlic pork loin is a quick and tasty dish. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal because it’s easy to make and full of flavor.
What Makes This Recipe Special
The honey garlic pork loin recipe is unique. It’s easy to cook in one pan and has a sweet and savory taste. The pork loin becomes tender and juicy, soaking up the honey garlic glaze.
This recipe is simple to prepare and clean up. It’s a stress-free way to cook. The honey and garlic make a delicious sauce that goes well with the pork.
Equipment You’ll Need
To cook this delicious honey garlic pork loin, you’ll need some basic tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Large Oven-Safe Skillet | A skillet big enough for the pork loin and veggies. It must be oven-safe for easy transition. |
| Oven | For baking the pork loin to perfection. |
| Cutting Board | For preparing the pork loin and veggies. |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | For accurately measuring the honey garlic sauce ingredients. |
Essential Ingredients for Honey Garlic Pork Loin
A great honey garlic pork loin recipe starts with top-notch ingredients. To make a dish that’s both tasty and fulfilling, knowing the key ingredients is essential.
Selecting the Perfect Pork Loin
Choosing the right pork loin is key. Look for a cut that’s 1-1.5 pounds. Choose a loin that’s well-trimmed to cut down on fat. A good pork loin should have just the right amount of marbling for tenderness and flavor.
The Honey Garlic Sauce Components
The honey garlic sauce is crucial for flavor. It’s made of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. These ingredients blend to make a sweet and savory glaze that pairs well with the pork.
Complementary Vegetables for Your One-Pan Meal
To turn this into a full one-pan meal, add some veggies. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and red potatoes are great choices. They roast well and complement the pork loin. Just chop them up, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and add to the skillet.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork Loin | 1-1.5 pounds |
| Honey | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
“The most important thing about cooking is to have a lot of love and a little bit of knowledge.” – Unknown
Pork Loin vs. Pork Tenderloin: Understanding the Difference
When cooking pork, knowing the difference between pork loin and pork tenderloin is key. Both are tender and flavorful, but they cook differently. This affects how long and how you cook them.
Cooking Adjustments Based on Your Cut
Pork loin is bigger, has a bone, and fat. It’s more forgiving when cooking. It needs a bit longer to cook until it’s tender and juicy.
Pork tenderloin, being leaner, cooks faster. It’s important to adjust cooking time and temperature based on the cut to avoid mistakes.
- Pork loin: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-60 minutes.
- Pork tenderloin: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-30 minutes.
Which Cut Works Best for This Recipe
In the one pan honey garlic pork loin recipe, pork loin is the best choice. It’s great with the honey garlic glaze and stays moist. The bone and fat add flavor and tenderness.
Pork tenderloin can work too, but it needs careful watching. It can dry out quickly. If using tenderloin, cook it for less time and check its temperature often.
The Secret to Perfectly Tender Pork Loin
The secret to a tender pork loin is knowing the right methods. It’s not just about cooking it. It’s about using techniques that keep it juicy and full of flavor.
Best Tenderizing Methods and Marinades
There are several ways to tenderize a pork loin. Marinating and brining are two effective methods. Marinating uses acids like vinegar or lemon juice to break down proteins. Brining involves soaking the meat in saltwater to keep it moist.
- Try a marinade with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
- Add acidic ingredients like apple cider vinegar for tenderizing.
- Brining can add moisture and flavor.
Temperature Control for Juicy Results
Controlling the temperature is key for a juicy pork loin. It’s important to cook it to the right temperature without overcooking. A meat thermometer helps ensure you get it just right.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
- Let the pork loin rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to spread evenly.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
To make a perfect honey garlic pork loin, follow our easy guide. This guide will help you prepare, sear, and bake your pork loin. You’ll get a delicious one pan meal.
Preparing Your Pork: Trimming and Seasoning
First, trim any extra fat from the pork loin. Then, season it well with salt, pepper, and herbs. “A well-seasoned pork loin is the foundation of a flavorful dish,” say many chefs. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Searing Techniques: Should You Sear Before Baking?
Searing the pork loin before baking is key. It makes the flavor and texture better. Heat a skillet over medium-high, add oil, and sear the pork on all sides until browned. This should take 2-3 minutes per side.
Creating the Honey Garlic Sauce
While searing the pork, make the honey garlic sauce. Mix honey, minced garlic, and other sauce ingredients like soy sauce or Dijon mustard in a bowl. The sauce should be smooth and balanced, with sweet and savory flavors. As Chef Gordon Ramsay said, “The right balance of flavors is key to a great dish.”
Adding Vegetables to Your Skillet
After searing the pork, add your favorite vegetables to the skillet. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes are good choices. Toss the vegetables in oil and pan drippings, then season with salt and pepper. This ensures the vegetables cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
Oven-Baking Instructions: Covered or Uncovered?
Put the skillet in a preheated oven and bake the pork loin. You can bake it covered or uncovered. Covered baking keeps moisture in, while uncovered baking crisps the crust. For the honey garlic pork loin, baking uncovered is best to caramelize the sauce and crisp the top.
Cooking Times and Temperature Guide
To cook a pork loin that’s both tender and flavorful, it’s key to know the best cooking times and temperatures. You can cook pork loin in many ways. But, getting the timing and temperature right is crucial for a delicious result.
Slow vs. Fast Cooking: Which Is Better for Pork Loin?
The debate is between slow and fast cooking for pork loin. Slow cooking at a lower temperature makes the meat tender and juicy. It cooks the meat evenly. On the other hand, fast cooking at a higher temperature gives a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Your choice depends on what you like and the recipe you’re using.
How Long to Cook Different Sized Pork Loins
Cooking time for pork loin changes based on its size and cooking method. Here are some general guidelines:
- For a 1-1.5 pound pork loin, cook for about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- For a 1.5-2.5 pound pork loin, cook for about 30-40 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- For larger cuts, adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring the internal temperature reaches a safe minimum.
Using a Meat Thermometer for Perfect Results
A meat thermometer is essential for cooking pork loin to perfection. It makes sure the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature. The recommended internal temperature for cooked pork loin is at least 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest time.
Perfecting Your Honey Garlic Sauce
Getting the perfect flavor in your honey garlic sauce can make your dish amazing. This sauce is key to the one pan honey garlic pork loin. It combines sweet and savory tastes that make the recipe stand out.
Balancing Sweet and Savory Flavors
To get the right mix of sweet and savory, start by tweaking the honey and garlic amounts. If you like it sweeter, add more honey. For a savory taste, add more garlic or a pinch of salt. Try different amounts until it tastes just right to you.
Techniques for Thickening the Sauce
A thick, glaze-like sauce is ideal. You can reduce the sauce slowly on low heat, stirring often. Or, add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a bit of water) to the sauce. You can also use a roux (butter and flour mixture) to thicken it.
Glazing Your Pork Loin for Maximum Flavor
Glazing the pork loin with the sauce in the last few minutes of cooking boosts flavor and looks. Brush the sauce on the pork and bake it again. This makes a caramelized crust that goes well with the tender pork inside.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Mastering the one pan honey garlic pork loin means knowing how to fix common problems. Even skilled cooks might face issues like dry pork or uneven sauce.
Preventing Dry Pork Loin
A dry pork loin can be a letdown. But, there are ways to avoid it. Proper temperature control is key; use a meat thermometer to hit the 145°F (63°C) mark. Don’t overcook it, as pork loin dries out fast. Also, marinating or brining the pork before cooking helps keep it moist.
Fixing Sauce Problems
The honey garlic sauce is crucial for this dish. Issues like thickness or flavor can pop up. To thicken the sauce, simmer it or add a cornstarch slurry. If it’s too thick, a bit of broth or water can fix it.
For flavor balance, taste and adjust as you cook. Add more honey for sweetness or garlic for flavor.
Serving, Storing, and Reheating Your Honey Garlic Pork Loin
After cooking your honey garlic pork loin perfectly, it’s time to think about how to serve and store it. A nicely presented dish can make your meal better. Also, storing leftovers right keeps them tasty.
Plating Your One-Pan Meal
To make your meal look good, slice the pork loin against the grain. Place it on a platter or individual plates. Spoon the honey garlic sauce and roasted veggies around the pork.
Complementary Side Dishes
Even though your meal is complete, a simple side dish can make it better. Try roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a green salad. These options match the pork loin’s rich flavors without much extra work.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the pork loin cool down. Then, slice it and put it in an airtight container with the sauce and veggies. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When reheating, warm the pork loin in the oven at 275°F (135°C). Or, use a microwave-safe dish and reheat on medium power. Check often to avoid overcooking.
Conclusion: Mastering the One Pan Honey Garlic Pork Loin
Making a tasty meal doesn’t have to be hard. This easy recipe for one pan honey garlic pork loin makes dinner delicious with little effort. The secret is in its simple steps and the rich taste of the honey garlic glaze.
By following this guide, you’ll get a tender and juicy pork loin. It’s perfectly paired with a sweet and savory sauce. This recipe is great for busy cooks or anyone wanting to try something new.
Don’t be afraid to add your own twist with different veggies and spices. This dish is easy to make and tastes amazing. Try it tonight and enjoy a meal that will please everyone.
FAQ
What is the best pork loin recipe for a weeknight dinner?
A simple and tasty honey garlic pork loin recipe cooked in one skillet is great for weeknights. It’s easy to make and clean up is minimal.
How do I achieve a tender and juicy pork loin?
To get a tender and juicy pork loin, mix tenderizing methods like marinating. Cook it to the right temperature. A meat thermometer ensures perfect pork.
Can I use pork tenderloin instead of pork loin for this recipe?
While both cuts work, pork loin is better for this recipe because of its size and texture. You can use pork tenderloin and adjust cooking time.
How do I balance the sweet and savory flavors in the honey garlic sauce?
To balance flavors, adjust honey and garlic to your liking. Adding soy sauce or herbs can also enhance the taste.
What are some common issues when cooking honey garlic pork loin, and how can I troubleshoot them?
Common problems include dry pork and sauce issues. To avoid dry pork, don’t overcook and use a meat thermometer. For sauce, adjust thickness by adding honey or cornstarch.
How do I store and reheat leftover honey garlic pork loin?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm. Serve with your favorite sides.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, prepare the pork loin and honey garlic sauce ahead. Store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the dish when ready to cook.
What are some complementary side dishes that go well with honey garlic pork loin?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and steamed broccoli are excellent choices. They complement the honey garlic pork loin’s flavors.
How do I glaze the pork loin for maximum flavor?
To glaze the pork loin, brush the honey garlic sauce over it in the last few minutes of cooking. This creates a sticky, caramelized glaze that boosts flavor.
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USDA Safe Minimum Internal Temperature Chart
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