Roasted Pork Loin with Garlic Potatoes: A Perfect Comfort Meal
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dinner that will impress your family or guests, look no further than this Roasted Pork Loin with Garlic Potatoes. Picture a succulent pork loin, perfectly roasted with aromatic herbs, surrounded by golden, buttery garlic potatoes that soak up all the savory juices. This dish is not just dinner—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into an irresistible feast. Perfect for weeknights, special occasions, or Sunday family meals, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
🛒 Ingredients & Their Role
For the Pork Loin:
- 1 pork loin roast (3–4 lb) – The centerpiece of the dish; tender, juicy, and flavorful when roasted to perfection.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Helps the herbs and garlic adhere to the pork while adding a subtle richness.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the pork with aromatic, savory depth.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary – Adds a fragrant, earthy note that pairs perfectly with pork.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – Enhances the overall flavor with subtle herbal undertones.
- 1 tsp salt – Brings out all the natural flavors of the pork and herbs.
- ½ tsp black pepper – Provides a mild heat and balances the seasoning.
For the Garlic Potatoes:
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved – Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for roasting alongside the pork.
- 2 tbsp melted butter – Adds richness and helps the potatoes brown beautifully.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Enhances the garlicky flavor of the potatoes without overpowering them.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional) – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch for garnish and visual appeal.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even roasting for both the pork and potatoes.
2. Prepare the Pork Loin
In a small bowl, combine:
- olive oil
- minced garlic
- rosemary
- thyme
- salt
- black pepper
Rub this mixture evenly over the pork loin. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes to let the flavors penetrate the meat.
3. Prepare the Garlic Potatoes
In a separate bowl, toss the halved potatoes with melted butter and garlic powder until fully coated. This ensures every bite is flavorful and golden.
4. Arrange for Roasting
Place the seasoned pork loin in the center of a baking dish and arrange the potatoes around it, making sure they have space to roast evenly.
5. Roast to Perfection
Roast uncovered for about 1 hour, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The potatoes will become golden and slightly crisp on the edges.
6. Rest the Meat
Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the pork tender and moist.
7. Serve
Garnish the potatoes with fresh parsley if desired. Slice the pork and serve warm alongside the garlic potatoes for a complete, comforting meal.
💡 Why This Recipe is Loved
This Roasted Pork Loin with Garlic Potatoes is adored for its perfect balance of flavor, simplicity, and elegance. The pork is juicy and herbaceous, while the potatoes soak up all the rich flavors from the roast. It’s a one-dish meal that feels gourmet but is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and special family dinners.
🔥 Pro Tips for Perfection
- Use a meat thermometer – Ensures the pork is perfectly cooked and not overdone.
- Don’t skip resting – Letting the pork rest guarantees a juicy, tender roast.
- Evenly coat the potatoes – Ensures they roast to golden perfection and absorb all flavors.
- Optional flavor boost – Add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the baking dish for extra richness.
- Make ahead – Season the pork a few hours ahead to deepen the flavor.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with homemade gravy or apple sauce for added depth and sweetness.
- A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir complements the rich, savory flavors perfectly.
✅ Final Thoughts
This Roasted Pork Loin with Garlic Potatoes proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients, thoughtful seasoning, and easy roasting, you get a moist, flavorful pork loin and perfectly roasted potatoes every time. It’s a recipe that will impress without stress, offering hearty, delicious, and wholesome meals for any occasion.
Turn a simple dinner into a memorable feast with minimal effort—your family and guests will be asking for seconds!