If you’re craving something savory and comforting, this is for you.
This roasted pork loin recipe is a total game changer for your kitchen. It feels like a fancy Sunday feast. Yet, it is easy enough for a busy Tuesday night. You get juicy meat and crispy potatoes in one single pan. Dinner just got a whole lot better and much simpler.
WHY YOU’LL MAKE THIS AGAIN
This is the ultimate comfort food for a chilly Fall evening. It is a one-pan wonder that saves you from doing dishes. Your family will love the savory garlic and herb crust. It is reliable, delicious, and ready for any busy weeknight. You get a complete meal with very little effort. It is also a great budget-friendly way to feed a crowd.
The leftovers are just as good the next day. You can slice the pork thin for amazing sandwiches. The potatoes stay tender and flavorful in the fridge. This recipe is a staple for meal prep enthusiasts too. You will find yourself reaching for this recipe every single month.
HOW THIS COMES TOGETHER
You start by making a quick, fresh herb paste. Rub it all over the pork for maximum flavor impact. Toss the baby potatoes in a bit of oil and salt. Everything goes into the oven at the exact same time. It is a hands-off cooking method that works every time. Even beginners can master this dish with total confidence.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
Most of these items are probably already in your pantry. Use fresh herbs for the best aromatic results.
- 1 (3 lb) boneless pork loin roast
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
STEP-BY-STEP DIRECTIONS
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before starting.
- Combine minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon oil.
- Rub this herb paste evenly over the entire pork loin roast.
- Toss baby potatoes with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Place the pork loin in the center of a roasting pan.
- Arrange the potatoes around the pork in a single layer.
- Roast for 60 to 75 minutes until the internal temperature is 145°F.
- Remove from oven and let the pork rest for 10 minutes.
HOW TO SERVE IT
Slice the pork into thick, juicy rounds for a beautiful presentation. Place the crispy potatoes around the meat on a large platter. This looks impressive for casual hosting or family gatherings. Pair it with a simple green salad for a fresh crunch. Steamed green beans or roasted carrots also work perfectly here. Your guests will think you spent hours in the kitchen.
LEFTOVERS & STORAGE
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to four days. To reheat, use the oven at a low temperature. This keeps the pork from drying out too much. You can also freeze the cooked pork for two months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. It makes for a very easy future lunch.
MAKE IT EVEN BETTER (PRO TIPS)
- Do not skip the 10-minute resting period after roasting.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the pork loin.
- You can use dried herbs if fresh ones are unavailable.
- Cut larger baby potatoes in half for even cooking times.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the potatoes for zing.
- This is a great kid-approved meal because it is simple.
- Sear the pork in a pan first for extra crust.
- Always roast the potatoes in a single layer for crispiness.
EASY WAYS TO CHANGE IT UP
- Swap baby potatoes for sweet potatoes for a Fall twist.
- Add sliced onions to the pan for extra savory flavor.
- Use sage instead of rosemary for a different herb profile.
- Add a teaspoon of honey to the rub for sweetness.
QUICK QUESTIONS
Can I use a pork tenderloin instead?
Pork tenderloin is much smaller and cooks much faster. You would need to adjust the roasting time significantly. It is better to stick with the loin for this recipe.
What if my potatoes are still hard?
If the pork is done first, remove it to rest. Leave the potatoes in the oven for five more minutes. This ensures they are perfectly tender and golden brown.
Is 145°F safe for pork?
Yes, 145°F is the USDA recommended temperature for pork. It will be slightly pink and very juicy. This is the secret to perfect pork every time.
I hope you love this simple, hearty meal as much as I do. It is proof that great food doesn’t have to be hard. Give it a try tonight!
— Ethan
Garlic Herb Roasted Pork Loin with Baby Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to create a herb paste.
- Rub the herb paste evenly over the entire pork loin roast.
- Toss baby potatoes with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Place the pork loin in the center of a large roasting pan or rimmed baking sheet.
- Arrange the potatoes around the pork loin in a single layer.
- Roast for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from oven and let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
