Bacon & Apple Stuffed Pork Loin
If you’re looking for a dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, this Bacon & Apple Stuffed Pork Loin is for you. Juicy pork loin is filled with a delicious stuffing of crisp bacon and tender apples, making it an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress your guests!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stuffed pork loin is not only packed with flavor but also feels like a special-occasion dish without being too difficult to make. The sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the smoky bacon, while the pork loin remains juicy and tender after roasting. It’s a showstopper that works for both family dinners and entertaining guests!
Ingredient Highlights
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Bacon & Apple Stuffed Pork Loin:
- Pork Loin: A 2-3 lb pork loin is perfect for stuffing and roasting.
- Bacon: Crisp and smoky, bacon adds a rich flavor to the stuffing.
- Apples: Choose a sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best balance.
- Onion & Garlic: These aromatics add depth and savoriness to the stuffing.
- Fresh Herbs: Thyme or rosemary complement the pork beautifully.
- Breadcrumbs: These help bind the stuffing together.
- Olive Oil, Salt, & Pepper: For seasoning and roasting the pork.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get into the details of how to make this savory-sweet stuffed pork loin!
- Prepare the Pork
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butterfly the pork loin by slicing it lengthwise, but don’t cut all the way through. You want to open it like a book so you can stuff it. - Make the Stuffing
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving a bit of bacon fat in the pan. Add the diced apples, chopped onion, garlic, and fresh herbs to the pan, cooking until the apples are tender and the onions are translucent. Stir in the cooked bacon and breadcrumbs to create the stuffing mixture. - Stuff the Pork Loin
Spread the apple and bacon stuffing evenly inside the butterflied pork loin. Roll the pork tightly and secure it with kitchen twine at regular intervals to keep the stuffing in place. - Sear the Pork
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed pork loin on all sides until it’s golden brown—about 2-3 minutes per side. - Roast the Pork
Transfer the seared pork loin to a roasting pan. Season the outside with salt and pepper, then roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). - Rest and Serve
Once the pork is done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices. Slice and serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Tips & Tricks
- Choosing the Right Apples: Go for a sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji to complement the savory bacon.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the pork before roasting ensures you get a beautiful golden crust and extra flavor.
- Save the Drippings: Use the pan drippings to make a quick gravy by deglazing the pan with some chicken broth and a splash of wine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can stuff and roll the pork loin a day ahead. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. Sear and roast it the next day.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Roasted root vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad would complement the flavors beautifu
Bacon & Apple Stuffed Pork Loin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lb pork loin butterflied
- 4 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 apples peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions
Prepare the pork loin:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly the pork loin by cutting it lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through, and then open it like a book. Pound it gently to an even thickness.
Cook the filling:
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add the diced apples, bacon, rosemary, and cinnamon. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the apples soften. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
Stuff the pork loin:
- Spread the bacon and apple mixture evenly over the inside of the butterflied pork loin.
- Roll the pork tightly and secure it with kitchen twine at 2-inch intervals.
Sear the pork loin:
- Heat the remaining olive oil in the skillet and sear the rolled pork loin on all sides until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes).
Roast the pork:
- Transfer the seared pork to a baking dish. Pour the chicken broth into the dish to keep the pork moist during roasting.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Rest and serve:
- Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with pan juices.
Notes
This Bacon & Apple Stuffed Pork Loin is the perfect centerpiece for any dinner. The sweet apples, smoky bacon, and tender pork create a flavor combination that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re serving this for a family gathering or a special dinner, it’s sure to be a hit! Don’t forget to leave a review or share your results—I’d love to hear how you enjoyed it!
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