Orange Glazed Pork Loin
There’s something magical about a Sunday dinner that brings everyone to the table, no screens, no distractions—just the warmth of good food and laughter. This Orange Glazed Pork Loin recipe has quickly become a staple in our home, especially when we want something hearty yet elegant. I stumbled upon this flavor combination when I needed a break from our usual weeknight meals. The sweetness of the oranges, the savory rosemary, and the caramelized glaze make this dish an instant comfort.
I love how the citrus scent fills the kitchen, wrapping everything in a cozy, zesty warmth. My kids, who are usually wary of anything “fancy,” devour this pork loin like it’s going out of style. My husband, a self-proclaimed critic of roast dishes, gave me a knowing smile after the first bite, silently acknowledging it was a home run.
What I adore most is how easy and versatile this recipe is. While it might look like a weekend-only dish, I’ve whipped it up on busy weeknights, and it’s just as impressive. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen superhero while being straightforward enough that you don’t need to sweat the details.
Trust me, once you make this Orange Glazed Pork Loin, you’ll be counting the days until you can make it again. There’s just something about this perfect balance of flavors that turns a simple meal into a family event.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:
Can I use another cut of pork?
Yes! While pork loin is ideal for this recipe, you can also use pork tenderloin or a boneless pork shoulder. Just be mindful of the cooking time as these cuts may vary.
What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?
No problem! You can substitute with dried rosemary. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary in place of the fresh sprigs.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the glaze and marinate the pork loin a day ahead. Cook it when you’re ready, and it’ll taste just as delicious.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The glaze is sweet and savory, which usually wins over picky eaters. If your kids are sensitive to herbs, you can reduce the rosemary slightly.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
What You Need to Make Orange Glazed Pork Loin:
Ingredients:
1 (3-4 lb) pork loin roast
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup honey
1/3 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
Zest of 1 orange
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
4-5 sprigs fresh rosemary
2-3 oranges, sliced (for roasting)
Equipment:
Roasting pan
Meat thermometer
Basting brush
Aluminum foil
How to Make Orange Glazed Pork Loin:
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a roasting pan with foil for easy cleanup.
Season the Pork: Pat the pork loin dry and rub it with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together honey, orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard.
Sear the Pork: In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Add the Glaze and Oranges: Place the pork loin in the roasting pan. Brush with the glaze generously and lay fresh rosemary sprigs and orange slices around the pork.
Roast: Cook for about 50-60 minutes, basting with the glaze every 15 minutes. The pork is done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Rest and Serve: Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra glaze and roasted orange slices.
Tips:
Don’t Skip Searing: Searing locks in moisture and gives the pork a beautiful caramelized crust.
Baste Often: Basting every 15 minutes ensures a flavorful, sticky glaze.
Use Fresh Citrus: Fresh orange juice and zest bring out the best flavors. Bottled juice doesn’t quite match the freshness.
Check the Temperature: Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer. Pork loin is perfect at 145°F.
Pair with Sides: Serve with roasted potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad to complete the meal.
Latest Reviews:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “A family favorite! Made this for Sunday dinner, and it was gone in minutes. The glaze is perfection.” – Samantha W.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Really tasty and easy to make. Next time, I’ll add a bit more garlic for extra flavor.” – Rachel D.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect for busy nights when I still want something special. My kids loved it!” – Jennifer M.
⭐⭐⭐ “Good recipe, but I prefer a little more spice. I’ll add some chili flakes next time.” – David L.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Juicy, flavorful, and super simple! The orange glaze made it feel fancy without the fuss.” – Melissa T.
Printable Recipe:
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Orange Glazed Pork Loin
Tender pork loin coated in a sticky-sweet orange glaze with hints of rosemary and garlic. This easy-to-make roast is perfect for family dinners and busy nights.
Ingredients
- 1 (3-4 lb) pork loin roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 4-5 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2-3 oranges, sliced (for roasting)
- Equipment:
- Roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
- Basting brush
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a roasting pan with foil for easy cleanup.
- Season the Pork: Pat the pork loin dry and rub it with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together honey, orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard.
- Sear the Pork: In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the pork on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Add the Glaze and Oranges: Place the pork loin in the roasting pan. Brush with the glaze generously and lay fresh rosemary sprigs and orange slices around the pork.
- Roast: Cook for about 50-60 minutes, basting with the glaze every 15 minutes. The pork is done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra glaze and roasted orange slices.
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