What Temperature to Grill Pork Loin for Juicy, Flavorful Results

Pork loin is a great choice for easy weeknight grilling. This boneless center cut roast has a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of rubs and glazes. However, because pork loin is very lean, it can dry out easily if overcooked. Using the right temperature when grilling pork loin is key to achieving tender, juicy results every time.

In this article we’ll cover everything you need to know about grilling pork loin at the ideal temperature for keeping it moist and full of flavor.

Why Temperature Control Matters for Pork Loin

Pork loin is a large, lean cut from the back of the pig that contains very little fat or connective tissue. Without insulation from fat or gelatin from collagen, pork loin can go from juicy and tender to dry and chewy very quickly if the temperature gets too high

On the other hand, grilling at too low of a temperature means the pork loin will require a long cooking time to reach a safe internal temperature. The extended exposure to heat draws moisture out of the meat, once again leading to dryness.

That’s why maintaining the right temperature when grilling pork loin is so important – it ensures the interior reaches the proper doneness before the outside dries out.

Best Temperature for Grilling Pork Loin

350-375°F is the ideal temperature range for grilling pork loin. At this medium-high heat, the exterior will develop a nice sear while the inside cooks through gently in a short period of time.

Here are some more pork loin grilling temperature guidelines:

• 325-350°F – Provides more time for thicker cuts to cook through without over-drying
• 375-400°F – Best for quick-cooking thinner pork loin chops or medallions
• 425°F+ – Avoid high heat, which will overcook the exterior before the inside is done

The temperature you choose depends on the thickness of the pork loin piece. Quick-cooking chops and medallions do well at higher heat since they require less time to reach doneness. Thick pork loin roasts need more moderate heat to prevent the outside from overcooking.

How to Grill a Whole Pork Loin Roast

Follow these simple steps for grilled pork loin perfection:

1. Trim and Prepare the Pork Loin

Trim off any excess fat or silver skin. Rub the pork all over with oil or mustard, then coat with your favorite spice rub.

**2. Preheat Grill to 350-375°F **

For a gas grill, turn all burners to medium-high. With charcoal, spread an even layer of hot coals.

3. Grill the Pork Loin

Place the pork loin directly over the heat. Grill for 12-15 minutes, flipping every 4 minutes or so, until it reaches an internal temp of 145°F.

4. Let Pork Loin Rest

Remove pork from grill, tent with foil, and let rest 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

5. Slice and Serve

Slice pork loin into 1/2-inch thick medallions. Serve with your favorite sauces or sides!

How Long to Grill Pork Loin

• 1-inch thick chops or medallions – grill 4-5 minutes per side
• 1 1/2-inch chops or medallions – grill 6-8 minutes per side
• 2-inch thick pork loin roast – grill 25-30 minutes total
• 3-inch thick roast – grill 35-40 minutes total

Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check for 145°F doneness. Remember that the pork will continue cooking slightly during the rest time.

Should You Wrap Pork Loin in Foil?

Wrapping pork loin in foil or butcher paper during grilling can help retain moisture, especially for thicker roasts that require longer cook times. However, this will create less of a crispy, caramelized exterior.

Most 1-2 inch pork loin pieces won’t need wrapping at a grill temp of 350-375°F. But if you notice the exterior browning too quickly, tent it loosely with foil to slow cooking.

Choosing a Grill for Pork Loin

You can use either a gas or charcoal grill for cooking pork loin. The key is maintaining an even, steady temperature in the target range.

With a gas grill, use all burners on medium-high and keep the lid closed as much as possible.

For charcoal, create an even single layer of hot coals. Charcoal tends to burn hotter than gas, so keep the temp in check.

Pork Loin Grilling Tips

• Bring pork to room temp before grilling for more even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to monitor doneness – appearance can be misleading.
• Let pork rest before slicing to allow juices time to redistribute.
• Add a marinade, spice rub, or glaze for extra flavor.
• Pair grilled pork loin with tangy barbeque sauce, chimichurri, or a bright vinaigrette.

Grilled Pork Loin Recipes

Here are some delicious ways to put grilled pork loin on the dinner table:

Rosemary-Orange Pork Loin – Rub pork with rosemary, garlic, orange zest, salt and pepper before grilling.

Hoisin-Ginger Glazed Pork Loin – Brush pork with hoisin sauce, soy sauce, garlic and ginger during last few minutes on grill.

Pork Loin with Cherry Salsa – Top grilled pork loin with a fresh salsa of cherries, mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.

Pork Loin Sandwiches – Slice grilled pork loin and pile onto rolls with pickles, mustard and Swiss cheese for tasty sandwiches.

Balsamic-Glazed Pork Loin – Brush pork with a glaze of balsamic vinegar, brown sugar and thyme several times during grilling.

Grilling pork loin at the right temperature is simple and delivers tender, flavorful results every time. For more recipes and grilling tips, check out these posts:

• How to Grill Boneless Pork Chops
• Top Pork Loin Marinades
• Grilled Pork Loin with Peach Salsa