Orange Cranberry Pork Loin Roast

Looking for a savory yet tangy dish that’s perfect for any special occasion? This Orange Cranberry Pork Loin Roast is the ideal combination of juicy pork, zesty orange, and sweet cranberries that will wow your taste buds!

Imagine a tender, perfectly roasted pork loin glazed with a sweet and tangy orange cranberry sauce. The citrusy sweetness and the tartness of the cranberries balance beautifully with the savory pork, making each bite a burst of flavor.

This pork loin roast is the ultimate centerpiece for a holiday meal, family dinner, or special celebration. The delicious orange cranberry glaze gives the dish a festive, vibrant touch while ensuring every bite is juicy and full of flavor.

Ready to create this mouthwatering roast? Let’s make this Orange Cranberry Pork Loin Roast and enjoy a tender, flavorful, and festive meal today!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Reader Favorite: As one reader exclaimed, “This is the best roast I’ve ever made!”
• Juicy and Flavorful: The combination of fresh orange juice, cranberry sauce, and marmalade creates a savory-sweet glaze that infuses the pork with deep, rich flavor.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: This roast is not only delicious but also looks stunning on the table, making it ideal for holidays and celebrations.
• Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is straightforward and comes together with minimal prep time.
• Great for Meal Prep: The leftovers make for great sandwiches or can be served over rice or mashed potatoes the next day.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings:
This recipe serves 6-8 people, depending on portion size. Need more? Simply double the ingredients for a larger roast.

Difficulty:
This recipe is easy enough for beginners but also enjoyable for more experienced cooks.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you start, gather these kitchen tools:

• Roasting Pan or Baking Dish: To roast the pork loin evenly.
• Meat Thermometer: For checking the internal temperature of the roast to ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
• Whisk: For combining the glaze ingredients.
• Spoon or Brush: To apply the glaze to the pork during cooking.

Ingredients for the Orange Cranberry Pork Loin Roast

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this flavorful dish together:

• Pork Loin Roast: A 3-pound boneless pork loin roast is ideal for this recipe.
• Olive Oil: For searing the pork and locking in moisture.
• Kosher Salt: To season the pork and bring out its natural flavor.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and flavor to the roast.

For the Sauce:

• Orange Juice: Fresh orange juice (¾ cup) gives the sauce a zesty citrus flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the marmalade and cranberry sauce.
• Sweet Orange Marmalade: 8 ounces (½ jar) provides sweetness and a touch of bitterness for balance.
• Whole Cranberry Sauce: 7 ounces (½ can) to give the sauce texture and sweetness.

Variations for Orange Cranberry Pork Loin Roast

• Add Garlic: For an extra layer of savory flavor, add minced garlic to the sauce.
• Try Maple Syrup: Swap out the orange marmalade for maple syrup for a richer, sweeter glaze.
• Use Different Fruit: For a twist, replace the orange juice with pomegranate juice for a slightly tart flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder to the glaze for a subtle heat.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an herby kick.

How to Make Orange Cranberry Pork Loin Roast

1. Prepare the Pork Loin

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the pork loin roast dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy exterior. Rub the pork with olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper, making sure to coat all sides of the meat.

2. Sear the Pork

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork loin and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. This step helps lock in the juices and enhances the flavor of the roast.

3. Prepare the Glaze

While the pork is searing, whisk together the orange juice, apple cider vinegar, sweet orange marmalade, and cranberry sauce in a medium bowl. Set the glaze aside.

4. Roast the Pork

Transfer the seared pork loin to a roasting pan or baking dish. Brush half of the glaze generously over the top of the roast. Place the pan in the oven and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer.

Tip: Baste the pork every 15 minutes with more glaze to keep it moist and flavorful.

5. Rest the Roast

Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender.

How to Serve Orange Cranberry Pork Loin Roast

This delicious roast pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and can be enjoyed in many different ways:

• Serve with Mashed Potatoes: The creamy potatoes soak up the flavorful cranberry orange sauce beautifully.
• Roast Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes are the perfect complement to this dish.
• In Sandwiches: Use the leftover pork to make sandwiches with a dollop of the glaze or some fresh greens.
• With Rice: Serve the pork over a bed of fluffy white rice or wild rice for a comforting meal.

Serving Tips:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the roast before serving to add color and extra flavor.
• Top with Extra Glaze: Drizzle the remaining glaze over the sliced pork for added sweetness and tang.
• Pair with a Salad: A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the roast.

Storing Orange Cranberry Pork Loin Roast

• Cooked Pork: Store any leftover roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying it out.
• Glaze: The leftover glaze can be stored in a separate container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use it to drizzle over leftovers or for future roasts.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your pork loin is perfectly cooked, always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This will give you a juicy, tender roast every time.
• Don’t Skip Searing: Searing the pork before roasting helps to lock in moisture and creates a rich, golden crust. This step adds tons of flavor.
• Rest the Meat: Let the pork rest after cooking to allow the juices to settle and keep the roast tender when you slice it.
• Adjust the Glaze: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can add extra orange marmalade or honey to taste.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

This Orange Cranberry Pork Loin Roast is not only delicious but also a balanced and satisfying meal. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a 6-ounce serving of the roast (without the glaze):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250
Protein	34g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	9g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	7g
Sodium	400mg

Note: The glaze adds extra sugar and calories, so adjust the serving size based on how much you use.

Orange Cranberry Pork Loin Roast FAQs

1. Can I use a bone-in pork loin for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a bone-in pork loin, but the cooking time will be slightly longer. Make sure to check the internal temperature, aiming for 145°F (63°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the pork roast and glaze ahead of time. Sear the pork and make the glaze, then store both separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, roast the pork and apply the glaze as directed.

3. How do I know when the pork is done cooking?

The best way to check if the pork is done is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) in the center of the roast.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! You can freeze any leftover pork in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

5. What are some side dishes to serve with this roast?

Some great side dishes include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad. The sweetness of the glaze pairs nicely with savory sides.

Conclusion

The Orange Cranberry Pork Loin Roast is a delicious and elegant dish that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner or a family meal, it’s sure to impress. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors.