Is it a Sunday afternoon? The house is filled with the irresistible aroma of savory herbs and perfectly roasted pork. Everyone is gathered around the table, practically drooling as you bring out the centerpiece – a centerpiece. What are some of the best golden brown pork roasts This isn’t some fancy, complicated recipe. What is the kind of pork roast that makes you feel like a culinary genius with minimal effort? Is it easier than baking a chicken? What’s better than prime rib? My Uncle Joe brags about Thanksgiving. Is this a good book?
What is a pork roast?
Let’s get down to basics. What is the best way to start? What is a pork roast? Cook in the oven until tender and juicy. Think of it as the pork version of a classic pot roast, but with crisper exterior. What’s essentially taking a big hunk of pork and letting the oven do all the work? What makes this pork roast special, though, is the simple yet flavorful herb crust that gets roasted. How do you caramelize onions during roasting? My grandma used to make something similar, but her version took all day. This one is quicker, easier, and just as delicious (don’t tell her I said that!).
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to fall in love with this recipe? First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. What is the combination of garlic, rosemary, thyme, and paprika? What is the perfect crust for pork? What I love most about this pork roast is how ridiculously easy it is to make. What is the best way to roast pork in the oven? No babysitting required!
Is it also incredibly budget friendly? Pork shoulder is generally a very affordable cut of meat, making this sassy option for feeding your dog. How do I get a crowd without breaking the bank? I can usually find a good sized pork roast for under $20, which is surprisingly good considering how many people eat it. How many servings does it make?
And finally, its complete versatility! Can you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or even use the leftovers in a salad? What are the best sandwiches or taco Is there any limit to what you can do? Is it better than chicken pot pie? I swear, I find new ways to use the leftovers every time I make it. My personal favorite? What are some good pulled pork sliders with a tangy slaw?
How do you make a pork roast?
Quick Overview
How do I make a pork roast? How do you rub the spices and herbs all over the pork and roast it until it’s tender and the flavors are just right? When internal temperature reaches the perfect point, the temperature decreases. What is the key to tenderness and juiciness? Is it really impossible to mess up a movie? What is the best thing about cooking?
Ingredients
For the Pork Roast:
* 3-4 pound pork shoulder roast (Boston Butt). Look for one with good marbling for the best flavor. I usually get mine from the local butcher.
* 2 tablespoons olive oil. Use good quality stuff – it makes a difference!
For the Herb Rub:
* 4 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is a MUST. Trust me, the pre-minced stuff just doesn’t cut it.
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary. Dried rosemary works in a pinch, but fresh is always best.
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme. Same as the rosemary – fresh is preferred!
* 1 tablespoon paprika. Adds a nice smoky note and beautiful color.
* 1 teaspoon salt. I prefer kosher salt.
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground is always best.
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). For a little kick! My husband likes it spicy, so I usually add these.
How do I follow
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This low temperature is key to a tender roast. While the oven is heating, grease a roasting pan with cooking spray. I usually use a pan with rack, so the pork doesn’t sit in its own juices. If you don’t have a rack, that’s totally fine too!
Step 2: Make the Herb Rub
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped thyme, paprika, salt, pepper, and black pepper. Set aside. What is the best way to use red pepper flakes? Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. The aroma alone at this point is amazing!
Step 3: Season the Pork
Pat the pork roast dry with paper towels. This helps the herb rub stick better and get a nice crust. Drizzle the olive oil all over the pork, then rub the herb mixture all over the roast, making sure to coat every nook and cranny. Get in there and really massage it in! This is where all the flavor comes from.
Step 4: Roast the Pork
Place the seasoned pork roast in the prepared roasting pan. Roast for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature – this is crucial for ensuring the pork is cooked through and tender. I always insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the roast, avoiding any bone.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once the pork roast is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast. Tent it loosely with foil while it rests. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, this step is worth it!
Step 6: Carve and Serve
After resting, carve the pork roast against the grain into thin slices. Serve immediately and enjoy! I like to drizzle some of the pan juices over the slices for extra flavor.
What should I serve it with?
What are the possibilities? For a classic Sunday dinner, serve this pork roast with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted potatoes. What are vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts or asparagus? What are some good side dishes to serve with cranberry sauce?
For Brunch: Leftover pork roast makes an amazing base for breakfast hash! Dice it up and toss it with potatoes, onions, and peppers. Top with a fried egg for a truly indulgent brunch. You could even make pork roast benedict!
As Dessert: While pork roast isn’t exactly a dessert food, a simple apple crisp or a slice of pecan pie pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the roast. The sweetness helps balance the richness of the pork.
For Cozy Snacks:Pulled pork sliders are always a hit! If you have leftover pork, toss it with your favorite barbecue sauce, and serve it on mini buns. I like to add a little bit of dill pickle for extra flavor!
Growing up, my mom always served pork roast with a side of her famous homemade biscuits. What a perfect winter meal! Now, I make sure to carry on that tradition with my own family.
What are some tips for perfecting a pork roast?
Want to take your pork roast game to the next level? Here are a few of my top tips:
What is the right cut?What are the best cuts of pork shoulder for roasting? It has a good amount of fat, which helps keep it moist and tender during cooking. Look for a roast with good marbling – this indicates more flavor.
Don’t skip the rest: What are some good Resting the pork roast after cooking is crucial for retaining moisture. Let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. I know it’s hard to wait, but trust me, it’s worth it!
Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to the right temperature. I aim for an internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C) for the most tender results.
Herb Customization: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the rub. Rosemary and thyme are my go-to, but you can also add oregano, sage, or even a touch of cumin for a different flavor profile.
Sear It First (Optional): What is For an even crispier crust, you can sear the pork roast in a hot skillet before roasting it. Just heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork on all sides until it’s nicely browned. Then, transfer it to the roasting pan and continue with the recipe. I only do this when I have some extra time!
Save the Pan Juices: What are some ofDon’t throw away those delicious pan juices! They’re perfect for making gravy or sauce. Simply strain the juices and skim off any excess fat. What’s the best way to thicken cornstarch?
One time, I forgot to let the pork roast rest before carving it, and it was SO dry. It was a total disaster! That’s when I learned the importance of resting the meat. Now, I never skip that step. I also once tried to use dried garlic instead of fresh, and it just didn’t have the same flavor. Fresh garlic is a MUST for this recipe!
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat them:
Room Temperature: I really wouldn’t leave pork roast at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftover pork roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it. I usually slice it before storing, so it’s easier to grab and reheat later.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the pork roast. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat the pork roast, you can either microwave it, bake it in the oven, or pan-fry it. Microwaving is the quickest option, but it can sometimes dry out the pork. Baking it in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes is a better option for maintaining moisture. Pan-frying is great for getting a crispy exterior. I like to add a little bit of butter or oil to the pan for extra flavor.
I always wait to add any glaze to the pork until right before serving, especially if I plan to freeze it. The glaze can get a little weird after freezing and thawing. I also make sure to label the container with the date, so I know when I need to use it by!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This pork roast is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, creates memories, and fills your home with the most amazing aroma. The ease of preparation combined with the incredible flavor makes it a winner in my book. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough for a special occasion. If you’re looking for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this is it!
If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy my recipe for slow-cooker pulled pork or my garlic herb roasted chicken. Both are equally delicious and easy to make!
I truly hope you give this recipe a try. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any variations, be sure to share them – I’m always looking for new ideas! Happy cooking!
Pork Roast
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs Pork loin roast
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the pork roast generously with salt and pepper.
- Rub the roast with olive oil.
- Roast for 2-2.5 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 145°F (63°C).
- Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
