Stuffed Pork Loin

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Serving Size: Serves 6-8

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Yet Simple: This dish looks gourmet but is easy to prepare with basic ingredients.
• Packed with Flavor: The stuffing—featuring bacon, spinach, and cream cheese—adds layers of savory goodness.
• Versatile: Perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients in the stuffing to suit your taste.

Ingredients

For the Pork Loin:

• 1 (3-4 pound) pork loin, butterflied
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Stuffing:

• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 4 ounces mushrooms, chopped
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon paprika

For Cooking:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Loin

Butterfly the pork loin by slicing it lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Open it like a book and flatten it with a meat mallet. Season both sides with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms until tender, then add garlic and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts.
3. Mix the cooked bacon, spinach mixture, cream cheese, rosemary, and paprika in a bowl.

Step 3: Stuff and Roll

Spread the stuffing evenly over the butterflied pork loin. Roll it tightly into a log and secure it with kitchen twine or toothpicks.

Step 4: Sear and Roast

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed pork loin on all sides until golden brown.
3. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for about 1 hour and 20 minutes or until an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is reached.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the pork loin rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this stuffed pork loin with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
• A fresh green salad or sautéed asparagus for a lighter side.
• A drizzle of gravy or balsamic reduction for added flavor.

Tips for Customization

1. Switch Up the Filling: Try sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, or caramelized onions for a different twist.
2. Add Herbs: Fresh thyme or sage can enhance the flavor.
3. Wrap It in Bacon: For extra richness, wrap the rolled pork loin in strips of bacon before roasting.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Approximate values based on an average serving size.
Calories: ~350 | Protein: ~35g | Fat: ~20g | Carbs: ~5g

FAQs

Can I use pork tenderloin instead of pork loin?

Pork tenderloin is smaller and cooks faster than pork loin, so adjustments to stuffing quantity and cooking time are needed.

How do I prevent my pork loin from drying out?

Cook it fat-side up to let natural juices baste the meat and use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the stuffed pork loin up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to cook.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat slices in a covered dish at low heat in the oven or microwave to retain moisture. This stuffed pork loin recipe is bound to become a favorite at your table! Its rich flavors, elegant presentation, and versatility make it a must-have for any occasion. Enjoy!