A Mama'S Stuffed Pork Loin
A flavorful stuffed pork loin filled with cream cheese and apricots, seasoned with herbs, perfect for a hearty family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut a 2 1/2 inch wide pocket in the pork loin.
- Mix cream cheese with chives and onion, then fold in chopped apricots, and stuff the mixture into the pork loin pocket.
- Tie the pork loin back together with kitchen string to secure the filling.
- Combine dried rosemary, salt, pepper, and oil to make a herb mixture.
- Rub the herb mixture on the outside of the pork loin.
- Place the pork loin, fat side up, in a roasting pan.
- Cook in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, until a meat thermometer registers 165°F (74°C).
- Let the pork rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans to the stuffing for added crunch. If fresh herbs are available, replace dried rosemary with fresh for a brighter flavor. Make sure to tie the pork loin securely to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking. If you prefer, you can substitute the cream cheese with a flavored goat cheese for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed pork loin pairs beautifully with Bacon-Cheese Mashed Potatoes and steamed green beans for a hearty meal. Consider serving with a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. A fruity chutney or sauce can also complement the flavors of the apricots, adding a touch of sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of broth or water, cover, and heat gently until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of A Mama'S Stuffed Pork Loin contains roughly 475 calories, with 8g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 762mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the pork loin in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed pork loin a day ahead. Simply stuff and tie it, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to cook, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of dried apricots?
If you don't have dried apricots, you can substitute them with other dried fruits such as figs, cranberries, or raisins. Each will give a unique flavor profile, so choose based on your preference or what's available.
How do I know when the pork is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the pork loin is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into it to ensure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).