Chops & Roasts

Slow-Roasted Pork Loin

Name: Slow-Roasted Pork Loin
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 150 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 (1.5-2 pound) pork loin; 6 slices of thick-cut bacon; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme; 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 4 carrots, peeled and chopped; 1 large red potato, peeled and chopped; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

By Jake Thornton · June 18, 2026 · Chops & Roasts

Prep30 min

Cook120 min

Total150 min

Serves6

There's something special about a slow-roasted pork loin, with its tender, juicy meat and crispy, caramelized crust. As a home cook, I've always been drawn to the simplicity and elegance of this dish, which is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in with family and friends.

I still remember the first time I made a slow-roasted pork loin. I was a beginner cook, and I was intimidated by the thought of cooking a large piece of meat. But with some guidance from a experienced cook, I was able to create a delicious, mouth-watering dish that impressed everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe special is the combination of flavors and textures. The pork loin is rubbed with a blend of aromatic spices, including thyme, rosemary, and garlic, which infuse the meat with a deep, savory flavor. The crispy bacon crust adds a satisfying crunch and a touch of smokiness, while the roasted vegetables provide a pop of color and freshness.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves comfort food and is looking for a dish that's easy to make and impressive to serve. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just a few, this slow-roasted pork loin is sure to become a new favorite.

I love making this dish on a chilly fall or winter evening, when the aroma of roasting meat and vegetables fills the kitchen and makes everyone feel cozy and hungry. It's also a great option for a special occasion, such as a holiday dinner or a birthday celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation time.
The slow-roasted pork loin is a crowd-pleaser, and is sure to impress your family and friends.
The dish is perfect for special occasions, such as holidays or birthday celebrations.
The recipe is budget-friendly and can be made with affordable ingredients.
The slow-roasted pork loin can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or weekend meals.
The dish is comforting and satisfying, making it a great option for chilly fall or winter evenings.
The recipe is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or salads.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a successful slow-roasted pork loin is to cook it low and slow, which allows the meat to become tender and juicy. The gentle heat also helps to break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it easy to slice and serve.

Another important factor is the use of a flavorful rub, which adds a deep, savory flavor to the meat. The rub is made with a blend of aromatic spices, including thyme, rosemary, and garlic, which complement the natural flavor of the pork.

The crispy bacon crust is also a crucial element, as it adds a satisfying crunch and a touch of smokiness to the dish. To achieve this, it's essential to cook the bacon slowly over low heat, which allows the fat to render and the meat to become crispy.

Finally, the roasted vegetables add a pop of color and freshness to the dish, and provide a nice contrast to the rich, savory flavor of the pork. By cooking the vegetables in the same pan as the pork, they absorb all the flavorful juices and aromas, making them a delicious and integral part of the dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious slow-roasted pork loin, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including a pork loin, bacon, olive oil, and a blend of aromatic spices. You'll also need some fresh vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and red potatoes, which add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

When shopping for the ingredients, be sure to choose a high-quality pork loin with a good balance of fat and lean meat. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful during cooking. You should also look for thick-cut bacon, which will provide a satisfying crunch and a rich, smoky flavor.

1 (1.5-2 pound) pork loinChoose a pork loin with a good balance of fat and lean meat, as this will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful during cooking. Look for a loin with a thick layer of fat on the outside, as this will help to keep the meat juicy and tender.
6 slices of thick-cut baconThick-cut bacon is essential for this recipe, as it provides a satisfying crunch and a rich, smoky flavor. Look for bacon that is smoked or cured, as this will add depth and complexity to the dish.
2 tbsp olive oilOlive oil is used to rub the pork loin and add flavor to the dish. Choose a high-quality olive oil with a rich, fruity flavor, as this will complement the natural flavor of the pork.
2 tbsp chopped fresh thymeFresh thyme is a key ingredient in this recipe, as it adds a deep, savory flavor to the pork. Choose fresh thyme with a bright, green color and a fragrant aroma, as this will ensure the best flavor.
1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemaryFresh rosemary is another key ingredient in this recipe, as it adds a piney, herbaceous flavor to the pork. Choose fresh rosemary with a bright, green color and a fragrant aroma, as this will ensure the best flavor.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is used to add depth and richness to the dish. Choose fresh garlic with a firm, white color and a pungent aroma, as this will ensure the best flavor.
1 tsp saltSalt is used to enhance the flavor of the pork and add texture to the dish. Choose a high-quality salt with a coarse, flaky texture, as this will help to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
1 tsp black pepperBlack pepper is used to add depth and warmth to the dish. Choose a high-quality pepper with a sharp, peppery flavor, as this will complement the natural flavors of the ingredients.
4 carrots, peeled and choppedCarrots are used to add color and freshness to the dish. Choose fresh carrots with a bright, orange color and a crunchy texture, as this will ensure the best flavor and texture.
1 large red potato, peeled and choppedRed potatoes are used to add a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness to the dish. Choose fresh potatoes with a firm, waxy texture, as this will help to keep them tender and flavorful during cooking.
1 large onion, choppedOnions are used to add depth and richness to the dish. Choose fresh onions with a firm, white color and a pungent aroma, as this will ensure the best flavor.
2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halvedBrussels sprouts are used to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Choose fresh Brussels sprouts with a bright, green color and a firm, compact texture, as this will ensure the best flavor and texture.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy roasting panSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeat thermometerOven mittsWhiskSpatula

How to Make Slow-Roasted Pork Loin

1
Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper to make a rub.
3
Rub the spice mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4
Wrap the bacon slices around the pork loin, securing them with toothpicks if necessary.
5
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork loin for 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7
While the pork is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Toss the carrots, potato, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
8
After the pork has cooked for 30 minutes, add the Brussels sprouts to the baking sheet and continue to roast until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
9
Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
10
Slice the pork loin against the grain and serve with the roasted vegetables and pan juices.
11
Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

Make sure to let the pork loin rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing, as this will help the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Don't overcrowd the baking sheet with vegetables, as this can prevent them from cooking evenly. Cook them in batches if necessary.
Let the pork loin come to room temperature before cooking, as this will help it to cook more evenly.
Use a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet to sear the pork loin, as this will help to create a crispy crust.
Don't open the oven door too often, as this can cause the temperature to fluctuate and affect the cooking time.
Let the pork loin cook for the recommended time, as this will help to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature and is tender and juicy.
Use a sharp knife to slice the pork loin, as this will help to prevent the meat from tearing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not letting the pork loin rest long enough before slicing, which can cause the juices to run out and the meat to become dry.
Overcooking the pork loin, which can make it tough and dry.
Not using a meat thermometer, which can lead to undercooked or overcooked meat.
Not cooking the vegetables long enough, which can leave them undercooked and crunchy.
Not using enough oil or seasoning, which can result in a bland dish.
Not letting the pork loin come to room temperature before cooking, which can affect the cooking time and evenness of cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some diced apples or pears to the roasting pan for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
Use different types of herbs, such as sage or parsley, to change up the flavor profile.
Add some red wine or beef broth to the roasting pan for added moisture and flavor.
Use a different type of meat, such as beef or lamb, for a different flavor and texture.
Add some potatoes or carrots to the roasting pan for a hearty and filling side dish.
Use a different type of bacon, such as applewood-smoked or peppered, for a unique flavor.
Add some chopped nuts or seeds, such as almonds or pumpkin seeds, for added crunch and texture.

What to Serve With Slow-Roasted Pork Loin

Serve the slow-roasted pork loin with the roasted vegetables and pan juices, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in with family and friends.

Some other options for serving this dish include serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or a side salad. You could also serve it with some crusty bread or over rice or quinoa.

Roasted vegetablesMashed potatoesSaladsBreadGravyApplesauce

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The slow-roasted pork loin can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, let the pork cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To freeze, let the pork cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat, let the pork come to room temperature, then wrap it in foil and heat it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

It's also possible to reheat the pork in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. Cover the pork with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and heat it on high for about 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cook a pork loin?

The best way to cook a pork loin is to roast it in the oven, as this helps to preserve the moisture and flavor of the meat. You can also grill or pan-fry a pork loin, but roasting is generally the most effective method.

How do I know when the pork loin is done?

The best way to determine if the pork loin is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.

Can I cook a pork loin in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook a pork loin in a slow cooker. Simply season the pork loin with your desired spices and place it in the slow cooker with some liquid, such as stock or wine. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.

How do I prevent the pork loin from drying out?

To prevent the pork loin from drying out, make sure to not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches a safe internal temperature, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. You can also wrap the pork in foil or parchment paper to help retain moisture.

Can I freeze a cooked pork loin?

Yes, you can freeze a cooked pork loin. Let the pork cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat a frozen pork loin?

To reheat a frozen pork loin, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then wrap it in foil and heat it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.

What are some good side dishes to serve with pork loin?

Some good side dishes to serve with pork loin include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, salads, and bread. You can also serve it with a variety of sauces, such as gravy or applesauce.

Can I cook a pork loin in advance?

Yes, you can cook a pork loin in advance. Let it cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Reheat it in the oven or microwave when you're ready to serve it.

The Full Recipe

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