Prepare to embark on a flavor journey that will transform your dinner table into a gourmet paradise! This Apple Butter Pork Loin is not just a recipe – it's a culinary masterpiece that combines the sweet, tangy richness of apple butter with perfectly roasted, juicy pork. Imagine cutting into a succulent pork loin with a golden-brown crust, revealing a tender, melt-in-your-mouth interior that's been lovingly glazed with a decadent apple butter and Dijon mustard blend. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat your family to an extraordinary meal, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and create unforgettable dining memories.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pork loin (about 3 lbs)
- 1 cup apple butter
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Remove the pork loin from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for optimal heat distribution.
- Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear and crust.
- Season the pork loin generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Sear the pork loin on all sides until a golden-brown crust forms, approximately 2-3 minutes per side, which helps lock in moisture and develop rich flavor.
- In a small bowl, mix apple butter and Dijon mustard until well combined, creating a flavorful glaze.
- Brush the apple butter mixture generously over the entire surface of the seared pork loin, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Transfer the skillet with the pork loin to the preheated oven and roast for approximately
- 5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the pork loin from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes, which allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist, tender result.
- After resting, slice the pork loin against the grain into thick, even slices and serve hot with additional apple butter glaze if desired.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork loin rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Searing: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the pork loin, which helps create that beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Invest in a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the pork to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This step helps redistribute the juices, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Glaze with Care: Apply the apple butter and Dijon mustard glaze generously and evenly for maximum flavor penetration.
- Choose the Right Pan: A cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan works best for both searing and roasting.
- Slice Against the Grain: When serving, always slice the pork loin against the grain to maintain tenderness and maximize each bite's juiciness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 100mg
