Pork loin is a popular and versatile cut of meat that can be prepared in many different ways. The cooking time for pork loin varies depending on the size and weight of the roast, as well as the cooking method. Here is a guide for how long to cook pork loin based on the weight:
Quick Answer
As a general rule of thumb, pork loin should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F. The approximate cooking times per pound are:
- 350°F oven: 15-20 minutes per pound
- Grilling over medium heat: 8-12 minutes per pound
- Pan frying: 6-8 minutes per pound
So for example, a 3 lb pork loin roast would take approximately 45-60 minutes to cook in a 350°F oven. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temp rather than relying on cook times alone.
Detailed Cooking Times by Weight
Here are more detailed cooking times for various pork loin sizes:
1 lb Pork Loin
- Oven: Cook at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Grill: Grill over medium heat for 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until 145°F internal temperature.
- Pan fry: Cook in skillet over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
2 lb Pork Loin
- Oven: Cook at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Grill: Grill over medium heat for 16-24 minutes, turning occasionally, until 145°F internal temperature.
- Pan fry: Cook in skillet over medium-high heat for 12-16 minutes, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
3 lb Pork Loin
- Oven: Cook at 350°F for 45-60 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Grill: Grill over medium heat for 24-36 minutes, turning occasionally, until 145°F internal temperature.
- Pan fry: Cook in skillet over medium-high heat for 18-24 minutes, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
4 lb Pork Loin
- Oven: Cook at 350°F for 60-80 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Grill: Grill over medium heat for 32-48 minutes, turning occasionally, until 145°F internal temperature.
- Pan fry: Cook in skillet over medium-high heat for 24-32 minutes, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5 lb Pork Loin
- Oven: Cook at 350°F for 75-100 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Grill: Grill over medium heat for 40-60 minutes, turning occasionally, until 145°F internal temperature.
- Pan fry: Cook in skillet over medium-high heat for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Factors That Affect Cooking Time
While the cooking times above provide general guidelines, there are several factors that can affect how long it takes to cook pork loin:
- Temperature: Cooking at a higher temperature decreases cook time. Lower oven temps or grill heat will increase cook time.
- Thickness: Thicker cuts of pork loin take longer to cook than thinner pieces.
- Bone-in vs Boneless: Bone-in pork loin can take slightly longer to cook through than boneless.
- Cooking method: Oven roasting takes longer than grilling or pan frying.
- Doneness: Cook time increases for well done vs lower doneness like medium rare.
To account for these factors, always rely on an instant read meat thermometer to check for doneness rather than just cook times. Check the pork in multiple spots to ensure it has reached the safe internal temperature.
Steps for Cooking Pork Loin
Follow these basic steps for cooking perfect pork loin every time:
- Preheat oven to 350°F if roasting or prepare grill for medium heat.
- Pat pork loin dry and season all over with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs.
- For oven, place pork in roasting pan and roast until internal temp reaches 145°F, checking often.
- For grilling, cook over direct medium heat, turning every 5 minutes until 145°F.
- For pan frying, cook on stovetop over medium-high heat until browned, flip, and continue cooking until 145°F.
- Allow pork to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Methods for Pork Loin
Here are some of the most popular cooking methods for pork loin and how they affect cook time:
Oven Roasted
Oven roasting is a simple, hands-off cooking method perfect for pork loin. Cook at 350°F and allow 15-20 minutes per pound until internal temperature reaches 145°F. The roast will develop a browned, caramelized exterior.
Grilled
Grilling imparts delicious smoky flavor to pork loin. Cook over direct medium heat, turning every 5 minutes, and allow 8-12 minutes per pound. Use a two-zone fire to move pork over indirect heat if flare-ups occur.
Pan Fried or Pan Roasted
Pan frying or pan roasting cooks pork loin stovetop for delicious browning. Use a heavy pan like cast iron over medium-high heat and cook 6-8 minutes per pound, flipping halfway through. The pork will develop a nice crust.
Slow Cooked
Pork loin can also be cooked low and slow in a slow cooker or instant pot. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until fork tender. The extended cook time results in very tender meat.
Common Doneness Levels
Pork loin can be cooked to various doneness levels. Use these temperatures as a guide:
| Doneness | Internal Temp |
|---|---|
| Rare | 130-135°F |
| Medium Rare | 135-140°F |
| Medium | 140-145°F |
| Medium Well | 150-155°F |
| Well Done | 160°F+ |
The FDA recommends cooking pork to 145°F minimum for food safety. Medium rare at 135°F is only recommended for very fresh, high quality pork.
Tips for Cooking Juicy, Flavorful Pork Loin
Here are some top tips for cooking moist, delicious pork loin every time:
- Bring meat to room temp before cooking for more even cooking.
- Season well with salt, pepper, herbs, and spices for flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and prevent overcooking.
- Allow pork to rest before slicing for juicier meat.
- Add a marinade, brine, or rub for extra moisture and flavor.
- Sear or brown pork first for enhanced browning and caramelization.
- Baste roasted pork loin during cooking to prevent drying out.
Marinades and Rubs for Pork Loin
Marinades and spice rubs infuse pork loin with lots of extra flavor. Try these recipes:
Easy Dry Rub
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon each garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper
Apple Cider Brine
- 1 quart apple cider
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon each: parsley, thyme, bay leaf
Hoisin Ginger Marinade
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
Conclusion
Pork loin cook times can vary greatly depending on the size and thickness of the roast and cooking method used. For oven roasting, allow 15-20 minutes per pound at 350°F. Grilling takes 8-12 minutes per pound over medium heat. Pan frying on the stovetop requires 6-8 minutes per pound. Always rely on an instant read thermometer rather than cook times to gauge doneness. Cook pork loin to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F for food safety and juicy, tender meat. Adding marinades, rubs and proper resting time helps ensure delicious, foolproof results.
