Ovenbaked Pork Loin
Oven-baked pork loin becomes tender and flavorful with a rich basting sauce of tomato, vinegar, molasses, onion, and celery. This dish offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory notes, perfect for family dinners or special occasions, pairing well with roasted vegetables or potatoes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and chopped celery in butter until soft.
- Add tomato puree, cider vinegar, and molasses to the sautéed vegetables.
- Blend the mixture well to create the basting sauce.
- Rub the pork loin with desired seasonings and place in a baking dish.
- Bake the pork in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 1.5 hours or until fully cooked.
- Baste the pork with the prepared sauce during cooking as needed.
- Let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the pork loin overnight in the basting sauce. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a touch more molasses. To enhance the basting sauce, try incorporating garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary. If you don’t have cider vinegar, white wine vinegar can be a suitable substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ovenbaked pork loin with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Kathy'S Favorite Ham And Cheese Broccoli Rolls for a delightful side. A fresh salad or some homemade applesauce can also complement the dish beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pork loin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the pork and warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave it in short intervals to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ovenbaked Pork Loin contains roughly 253 calories, with 6g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of potassium (13% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% 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 use a boneless pork loin for this recipe?
Yes, a boneless pork loin can be used. Just adjust the cooking time, as it may cook faster than a bone-in loin. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it's at least 145°F (63°C) before serving.
How can I tell when the pork loin is done cooking?
The best way to check if the pork loin is done is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part of the meat. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
What can I serve with the pork loin?
This pork loin pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier option, try it alongside Grits Casserole A La Donna Ford for a delicious combination.
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).