Brown sugar Dijon glazed pork loin is the perfect dish to please your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. This juicy and tender pork loin is coated with a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze, made from a simple combination of brown sugar, dijon mustard, and a few other key ingredients. The result is a mouthwatering feast that’s not only easy to make, but also incredibly versatile as it can be served up at a family dinner or a special celebration.
To prepare this scrumptious meal, you’ll begin by choosing a high-quality pork loin and gathering a few basic ingredients from your pantry. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced chef – this recipe is straightforward enough for anyone to tackle, and the cooking instructions will guide you through each step of the process. By the end of your culinary adventure, you’ll have achieved a perfectly cooked, golden and glistening pork loin that’s bound to have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
For a delicious and satisfying brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients. Ensuring the best quality will elevate the final result of your dish.
First, prepare these essential ingredients:
1/4 cup dark brown sugar: Organic dark brown sugar can add a rich, molasses-like taste and improves the glaze’s texture.
1/4 cup dijon mustard: Using whole grain dijon mustard adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a subtle hint of spice.
1 tablespoon honey: Combining honey with dijon mustard will create a well-balanced, sweet, and tangy sauce.
Next, consider these seasonings to enhance the flavor profile:
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This mix of herbs adds an aromatic and savory touch to the dish.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: A dash of paprika helps to create a smoky, mild taste that complements the sweetness of the glaze.
To season the pork loin itself, you will need:
1 teaspoon fine sea salt: Opt for sea salt to provide the perfect seasoning to your pork loin, bringing out its natural flavors.
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Coarsely ground black pepper adds a pleasant spiciness to the dish.
Lastly, to create a beautiful sear on your pork loin, have on hand:
2 tablespoons olive oil: Using olive oil to sear your pork loin allows for a perfectly crisp exterior, locking in the meat’s juices.
By using these ingredients, your brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin will be full of irresistible flavors and textures. Just remember to preheat your oven and have all ingredients measured and ready to go for a swift and stress-free cooking process.
Preparation
Before you start your preparation, preheat your oven to 350°F. This will ensure that the oven reaches the desired temperature by the time you’ll need it.
First, take your pork loin and pat it dry with a paper towel. Trim off any excess fat, as this can lead to a greasy result. Next, prepare your seasoning. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix them well to create a thick, flavorful paste.
Place a large piece of foil on a roasting pan, and lay your pork loin in the center. Generously coat the pork with the brown sugar-Dijon mixture, ensuring that every bit of the meat is covered evenly with the glaze. The foil will help contain the juices and keep your roasting pan clean.
Although this recipe does not involve chicken, you may add chicken to the dish if desired. Make sure to season the chicken with the same brown sugar-Dijon mixture and place it on the roasting pan alongside the pork.
To get an idea of the prep time, this recipe will roughly take around 15 minutes to prepare. Once your oven has been preheated, place the roasting pan with the coated pork loin (and chicken, if using) into the oven. Roast the meat for 45-60 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for the pork and 165°F for the chicken.
Remember to periodically baste your pork loin and chicken during the cooking process. This will help to keep the meat moist and ensure the flavors fully penetrate the meat. You can do this using the juices that collect at the bottom of the pan, or by applying more of the brown sugar-Dijon mixture halfway through the cooking time.
Once the pork loin and chicken have reached the desired temperature, remove the roasting pan from the oven and let the meat rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a juicier, more tender final product.
Serve your brown sugar Dijon glazed pork loin and chicken (if used) with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a scrumptious, well-seasoned meal.
Cooking Method
To make a delicious brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a roasting pan by placing a rack in it to keep the meat elevated, ensuring even cooking. Place your pork loin on the rack, with the fat side up. This will allow the fat to render and baste the meat, keeping it juicy.
Before roasting, season your pork loin with salt and pepper, or any desired herbs and spices. In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar and dijon mustard to create the glaze. Apply a generous layer of the glaze onto the meat, making sure it’s well coated.
Place the pork roast in the preheated oven and cook uncovered for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness. You can use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature, inserting it into the thickest part of the pork loin. For a well-done roast, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
While the pork loin is roasting, you may also consider adding vegetables to your roasting pan. This will allow them to absorb the flavors from the dijon glazed pork loin and create a complete meal. Simply arrange your chosen vegetables around the meat, and toss them in a little oil, salt, and pepper.
Once the desired internal temperature is reached, remove the roast from the oven. Cover the pork loin with aluminum foil, and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial as it ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making the roast tender and moist.
Serve your brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin with the roasted vegetables and enjoy a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Glaze
To create the perfect brown sugar dijon glaze, you will need a combination of sweet and savory ingredients. This glaze will provide your pork loin with a tender, juicy texture while still imparting excellent flavor and seasoning.
Start by combining brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and other seasonings in a small saucepan. Be sure to whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth, homogenous glaze. The caramelized brown sugar will add an irresistible sweetness to your glaze, while the Dijon mustard provides a savory balance to the flavor.
This sugar glaze is perfect for the holidays or special occasions, as it complements the pork loin’s natural flavors and creates a delicious, mouthwatering dish. The brown sugar rub on the pork loin also helps to seal in the meat’s moisture, creating a succulent and juicy result. Additionally, the brown sugar dijon glaze will caramelize on the surface of the pork loin, adding a flavorful crust that highlights the meat.
In order to achieve the best results with your brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin, carefully monitor the cooking process. Basting the pork loin throughout the cooking process will help to ensure that the glaze penetrates the meat and creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Remember to use a meat thermometer to check for internal temperature and doneness. This will ensure that your pork loin remains juicy, tender, and cooked to perfection. With the right technique and ingredients, your brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin will be an unforgettable dish that leaves your guests with lasting memories.
Serving Suggestions
When you’re preparing a delicious brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin, consider these accompanying side dishes to complete your meal and perfectly complement the savory flavors of the pork tenderloin.
To start, potatoes are a versatile and satisfying option. You can opt for classic mashed potatoes that will go great with the dijon glaze, or if you want to add a touch of sweetness, try sweet potatoes. Serve them roasted with complementary spices or as a creamy sweet potato mash.
Vegetables are also essential to any well-rounded meal. Pair your glazed pork loin with tender, steamed carrots and green beans for a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate. Alternatively, roasted Brussels sprouts sprinkled with salt and pepper make for a delightful savory side dish that won’t overpower the flavors of the brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin.
If you’re craving something light and refreshing, consider adding a simple apple salad to your meal. Thinly slice apples and mix them with a light vinaigrette, greens like arugula or spinach, and a few toasted nuts for crunch. This bright and crisp salad will cut through the richness of the pork and create a wonderful balance on your palate.
Rice is another great option when serving pork tenderloin. Infuse your rice with complementary spices like thyme and rosemary, and a hint of garlic for additional flavor. You can also consider a wild rice blend for added texture and eye appeal on the plate.
Finally, don’t forget the importance of presentation. To avoid overcooking, prepare your sides accordingly, so they’re ready to serve when the pork loin is done. Plate your main dish and sides with care and garnish with herbs or a sprinkle of spices to enhance the visual appeal of your delicious meal.
Internal Temperature
To ensure your brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin is cooked to perfection, it’s crucial to track the internal temperature. A thermometer is an essential tool for this task. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the loin without touching any bones to acquire an accurate reading.
Maintaining the appropriate internal temperature not only guarantees optimal flavor but also adheres to FDA safety guidelines. The recommended internal temperature for cooking pork is 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest period. Reaching this temperature ensures that your pork loin is cooked through, yet still tender and juicy.
It’s worth noting that slightly pink meat is considered safe and preferred by some for its moistness and enhanced taste. For those who prefer their pork loin well done, an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) can be achieved. However, this may result in a slightly drier texture. To accommodate different preferences:
For medium-rare: 145°F (63°C)
For medium: 150°F (66°C)
For well-done: 160°F (71°C)
It’s crucial to utilize a thermometer to monitor and maintain the internal temperature throughout the cooking process. This will provide confidence, knowing your brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin is cooked to a safe and enjoyable level.
Pairings and Side Dishes
When it comes to serving your brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin, there are a variety of side dishes and pairings that will complement the flavors of the dish. Here are some suggestions to get the most out of your meal.
First, consider pairing your pork loin with some classic starches, such as mashed potatoes or a simple potato salad. These are both great accompaniments to the sweet and tangy flavors of the glaze. You may also want to try sweet potatoes for an additional burst of sweetness that pairs well with the dijon glaze.
For a veggie side dish, green beans make a great choice, as their bright color and crisp texture provide a nice contrast to the tender pork. Additionally, consider serving roasted carrots with your pork loin, as their natural sweetness will marry well with the brown sugar dijon glaze. For a more unique option, try incorporating apples into a side dish, as this fruit pairs perfectly with the flavors of pork and adds a hint of sweetness that enhances the overall dish.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even cook some bacon and mix it in with your choice of vegetables or potatoes for some added crunch and flavor. Bacon and pork are a classic combination and will really enhance the taste of your meal.
In addition to these pairings, your glazed pork loin could also be served alongside chicken or pork chops for a mixed protein dish. Both meats pair well with the brown sugar dijon glaze, giving you versatile options depending on your preferences.
Lastly, if you’re pressed for time, consider using an instant pot to prepare some of your side dishes. This convenient appliance can cook vegetables, potatoes, and even rice in a fraction of the time required for traditional stove-top or oven methods. This can help ensure that all components of your meal are ready to serve when your brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin is finished cooking.
Remember to keep your side dishes simple and not overly spiced, as this will allow the flavors of your perfectly cooked glazed pork loin to shine through.
Leftovers and Storage
After enjoying your delicious brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin, you might have some leftovers. Properly storing the leftovers is essential to maintain their quality and ensure they’re safe to eat later. Here are some tips to help you store your leftover pork loin.
First, allow the leftover pork loin to cool down to room temperature. Wrap the leftovers securely in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. This will prevent any unwanted odors from spreading to other items in your refrigerator.
Your brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you think you won’t be able to finish the leftovers within that time frame, consider freezing them. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date and contents before placing it in the freezer.
When it’s time to reheat the leftovers, use the oven or microwave to ensure even heating. If you’re using the oven, set it to 350°F (175°C), and heat the pork loin for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you’re using a microwave, cover the pork loin with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a corner open for steam to escape. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking the internal temperature to make sure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Leftovers don’t have to be reserved just for weeknight dinners. If you have leftover brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin after a big Easter feast or other holiday meal, you can easily incorporate it into new dishes like salads, sandwiches, or easy main dish recipes.
By taking these steps to properly store and reheat your leftover brown sugar dijon glazed pork loin, you can ensure maximum flavor and safety when enjoying them again.
Brown Sugar Dijon Glazed Pork Loin
This only requires 5 of the staple pantry foods and 5 minutes of preparation time, here is the recipe for your brown sugar and Dijon glazed pork loin, which is both high in protein and low in calories!
Stir the mustard, sugar, salt and pepper into a small bowl
Line a rimmed baking tray with tin foil or cooking parchment. Spray the dish with spray-on olive oil to avoid the meat sticking and make for easy cleanup. Leave some excess sugar to sprinkle on your vegetables later.
Place the pork on the baking sheet, patting down the excess moisture with a tea towel.
Chop and prepare some apples (optional).
Surround your pork with the vegetables of your choosing. Make sure to baste them in oil first.
Baste each side of your pork loin with the mustard and sugar mixture. Make sure it is thick enough so that it doesn’t dry out during baking.
Bake the pork for around 30 minutes.
Take out the pork and sprinkle the vegetables with the spare sugar. Also, add the chopped apples to your cooked vegetables at this point.
Replace the pork loin and vegetables back in the oven and cook for another 30 minutes or until your temperature probe reads 145-degrees.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
