How Many Minutes Per Pound Should You Cook Boneless Pork Loin Roast?

Boneless pork loin roast is a lean, flavorful cut that can be the star of any meal when cooked properly. With the right timing, you’ll end up with juicy, tender meat surrounded by a delicious browned, crispy crust. So how long does it take to cook pork loin roast to perfection? Read on for a full guide to determine the ideal minutes per pound for your boneless pork loin.

The General Guideline

The National Pork Board recommends roasting boneless pork loin for approximately 25 minutes per pound at 350°F. This timing is based on reaching an internal temperature of 145°F, which is the minimum safe temperature for pork.

However, cook times can vary slightly based on the size and shape of your particular roast. Thicker roasts may take a little longer than 25 minutes per pound. The oven temperature can also impact cooking times.

Bottom line Use 25 minutes per pound at 350°F as your starting point Then use a meat thermometer to assess doneness rather than relying solely on time

Factors That Affect Pork Loin Roast Cook Times

There are a few variables that can alter the minutes per pound for pork loin roast:

• Oven temperature – A lower oven temp like 325°F will require more time than 350°F. At higher temps like 375°F, the time decreases.
• Roast dimensions – If it’s an uneven shape, the thickest parts will need more time than a uniform roast.
• Bone-in or boneless – Bone-in roasts take longer since the bone insulates the meat. Go boneless for more even cooking.
• Desired doneness – For pork cooked to 160°F instead of 145°F, add more time.
• Frozen vs. thawed – Frozen roasts may need up to 1.5 times longer than thawed.
• Altitude – At high altitudes above 3000 feet, you may need to add 5-15 extra minutes per pound.

Keep these factors in mind when calculating cook time for boneless pork loin. Rely more on temperature than minutes.

Pork Loin Roast Cooking Guidelines

Follow these recommended guidelines from the National Pork Board for roasting boneless pork loin at 350°F:

• 3-5 pound roast – Cook for approximately 20-25 minutes per pound
• 5-8 pound roast – Cook around 18-23 minutes per pound
• 8-10 pound roast – Cook about 15-20 minutes per pound

For example, a 4 pound boneless roast should take around 80-100 minutes to reach 145°F. However, verify with a thermometer.

Should You Cook Pork Loin to 145°F or 160°F?

The USDA states that pork is safe to eat at an internal temperature of 145°F. At this temp, it will still have a hint of pink color but should be juicy and flavorful.

If you prefer your pork fully cooked with no pink, then aim for an internal temperature of 160°F. This will result in a white interior but can dry out the meat if overcooked.

Both temperatures are considered safe, so cook your pork loin how you like it best. Just be sure to use a thermometer for accuracy either way.

Let Your Pork Loin Roast Rest

After roasting, you’ll want to let the pork rest for at least 3 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute so they don’t run out when you cut into it. For better moisture retention, let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

Tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm. The internal temperature will rise slightly during the resting time.

Seasoning Your Pork Loin

One of the pleasures of cooking pork loin roast is adding flavor through herbs, spices, and rubs. Here are some tasty options:

• Dry rub – Coat with brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika before roasting.
• Fresh herbs – Rub with minced rosemary, sage, thyme, or oregano for aromatic flavor.
• Wet marinade – Soak roast in a marinade of olive oil, garlic, mustard, and lemon juice overnight.
• Spice rub – For a kick, coat with cumin, chili powder, cayenne, coriander, and salt.
• Fruit flavors – Try apricot jam, mango chutney, or apple butter coatings.

Experiment to find your favorite combinations of seasonings for pork loin.

Roasting Pan Options

Any sturdy roasting pan will work for boneless pork loin. For best results:

• Use a rack to elevate the roast – this allows air circulation for even cooking.
• Choose a pan that’s just large enough to fit the roast with a bit of room around it.
• Add broth or stock to the bottom of the pan – this keeps drippings from burning.
• Place potatoes or root veggies around the roast during the last 30 minutes. They’ll soak up the lovely pork flavor.

Check for Doneness with a Meat Thermometer

The most foolproof way to know when your boneless pork loin roast is done is to use an instant read digital meat thermometer.

About halfway through the estimated cook time, insert the probe into the thickest part of the meat. Be careful not to hit bone or touch the pan.

Check the temp periodically until it’s between 140-145°F for slightly pink pork or 155-160°F for well done.

Let rest, then double check that it has reached the safe minimum temp of 145°F after resting.

Master the Perfect Pork Loin Roast

Now you know exactly how long to roast boneless pork loin – about 25 minutes per pound at 350°F. To guarantee tender, juicy results, always rely on an instant read thermometer over cook times.

A seasoned, savory pork loin roast makes for a comforting Sunday supper or elegant dinner party entrée. With the proper timing, your guests will be begging for your secret to superbly succulent and flavorful pork.