Apple Cider Marinade

This sweet and savory pork loin pairs well with so many sides. Try serving it up with some Garlic Mashed Potatoes or a side of Roasted Butternut Squash, Warm Cinnamon Apples, and a slice of Apple Butter Pie. Oh, and don’t forget a slice of fresh baked Sourdough Bread!

How To Make Apple Cider Pork Loin

1. In a medium-sized bowl, pour in the apple cider, maple syrup, thyme, and sea salt. Whisk together to combine until well incorporated. 
2. Add the pork loin to a Ziploc bag and pour the mixed marinade into the bag. Massage the marinade into the pork and remove as much of the air out of the bag as possible before storing in the fridge for a minimum of 8 hours or overnight. 
3. Once you’re ready to roast the pork, preheat the oven to 325F. Line a roasting pan with aluminum foil and place a wire rack over top. 
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, thyme, sage, and onion powder. 
5. Remove the pork loin from the bag and shake off any excess marinade. Make sure the pork loin is facing fat side up, and apply the dry rub on all sides of the pork loin until fully coated. 
6. Place the marinated pork loin in the oven, and roast at 25 minutes per pound or until the pork loin reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
7. After the pork loin cooks, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with your favorite sides.

Marinated Pork Loin Tips and Variations

• Pork is a lean meat and tends to dry out easily. The best way to prevent this is with a good long marinating time. For best results, marinate the pork loin overnight to keep it nice and tender.
• Slow roasting helps keep the meat moist as there is very little dry heat which can change the texture of pork. If desired, you can also cover the pork with a loose layer of foil to keep as many of the juices in as possible. 
• Shake off the excess marinade when you’re ready to roast. This will ensure the outside gets a nice crust with the dry rub and stays tender on the inside.
• According to the USDA, pork is safe to eat at an internal temperature of 145°F. To make sure your pork is safe, use an instant-read kitchen thermometer to test in the center of the thickest part. 
• Generally, 25 minutes per pound is the correct way to roast pork loin, but oven temperatures may vary which is another reason why a kitchen thermometer is a great investment!

Storing and Freezing

Storing: Cooked pork will last for 3-4 days in the fridge in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. 

Freezing: If you plan to freeze cooked pork tenderloin, make sure it is unsliced if possible. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then in a layer of aluminum foil before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container for 3-4 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before reheating and serving.

Should you roast pork loin covered or uncovered?

For best results, you can wait until the pork loin creates a browned crust on the outside, then add a layer of foil to the top in the last hour of baking to keep it as moist as possible.

Can I use this recipe for other cuts of pork?

Sure! This marinade and dry rub works well for pork chops, tenderloin, pork shoulder, etc.

More Comforting Protein Recipes

• Sour Cream Pork Chops 
• Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
• Chicken, Green Beans, And Potatoes
• Turkey Pot Pie with Puff Pastry
• Shepherd’s Pie