Cooking pork loin perfectly is all about achieving the right internal temperature. Undercooked pork can pose health risks while overcooking leads to dry tough meat. This comprehensive guide provides the ideal temperature for juicy, flavorful pork loin along with tips for measuring doneness.
Why Internal Temperature Matters
Raw pork can contain harmful bacteria so it’s crucial to cook it thoroughly to kill potential pathogens. The safe minimum internal temperature for fresh pork cuts like loin is 145°F.
Unlike fattier cuts of pork loin is very lean. Without excess fat to keep it moist pork loin dries out quickly if overcooked. Exceeding the recommended 145°F internal temp results in dry, tough meat.
USDA Safe Temperature for Pork Loin
The USDA states that pork loin should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F throughout to be safe to eat.
Previously, the USDA recommended cooking pork to 160°F. But extensive research shows that holding intact cuts like pork loin at 145°F for 3 minutes kills bacteria and parasites.
Some chefs suggest cooking pork loin to 150°F for a hint of pink or 160°F for well done. But temperatures above 145°F increase dryness. For best texture and moisture, 145°F is ideal.
How to Check Pork Loin Temperature
Checking temperature periodically with an instant-read thermometer is the only reliable way to determine if pork loin is thoroughly cooked.
Insert the thermometer probe into the thickest part of the loin, away from any bones or fat. Make sure to clean it thoroughly before and after use.
When the thermometer reads 140°F, remove the pork loin from the oven or grill and let rest. The temperature will rise around 5 degrees during resting time.
Resting also allows juices to redistribute so they don’t spill out when sliced. After a 10 minute rest, the pork loin is safe to eat at 145°F.
Cooking Times and Methods
Pork loin cooks faster than other larger roasts. Approximate cooking times:
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Oven at 350°F – 15 to 20 minutes per pound
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Grill over medium heat – 12 to 15 minutes per pound
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Sous vide at 140°F – 1-4 hours depending on thickness
For oven roasting or grilling, use a digital thermometer to check temp periodically until reaching 140°F. Let rest 10 minutes before carving.
With sous vide, the water bath holds the pork loin at the target temp so it’s impossible to overcook. Simply sear before serving.
Preventing Overcooking
Because pork loin dries out easily, utilize these tips to prevent overcooking:
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Remove pork loin from fridge 30 minutes before cooking so it cooks evenly.
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Use a meat thermometer to monitor temperature.
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Roast or grill using moderate heat of 350°F oven or medium grill.
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Allow pork loin to rest at least 10 minutes before slicing into it.
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For sous vide, cook long enough to pasteurize at 140°F then sear.
Is Pink Pork Loin Safe to Eat?
Pork loin cooked to the USDA recommended minimum internal temperature of 145°F is safe to eat even if it retains a hint of pink. The color does not indicate undercooking. Always rely on a thermometer for doneness, not visual cues.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
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Refrigerate cooked pork loin within 2 hours. Store leftovers in shallow airtight containers for 3-5 days.
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Reheat chopped, shredded or sliced pork loin to 165°F. Do not reheat whole slices or they may dry out.
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Add leftover pork loin to fried rice, pasta, or soup. Reheating in liquid helps prevent dryness.
Achieving the ideal internal temperature of 145°F is the key to perfectly cooked, juicy and tender pork loin. Use a thermometer to monitor temperature and stop cooking at 140°F. Letting the pork loin rest before slicing will result in the safest, most flavorful home cooked meal.
What temperature to cook a pork tenderloin at?
FAQ
Is pork loin done at 160 degrees?
Is pork loin safe at 150?
What should the internal temperature be for pork tenderloin?
Is pork tenderloin done at 170?
What temperature should a pork butt be cooked to?
Pork Butt or Pork Shoulder roasts become and tender succulent from lower temperature cooking for longer periods of time. These roasts have a fat cap and contain lots of connective tissues that need to break down during the cooking process, and that takes more time. Food Safety Temperature: Cook to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
What temperature should a pork loin be cooked at?
The **USDA** recommends cooking pork loin to an internal temperature of **145-150°F** . This is the minimum temperature required to avoid potential foodborne illnesses and health risks . It is not advisable
What temperature should a pork shoulder be cooked at?
Cooking Temperature: Preheat the oven to 225 – 300°F (149°C). Cooking pork shoulder at low temperatures will take a long time, but it’s worth the wait! Slow and low cooking turn out tender succulent pork roast! Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes per pound. Desired Internal Temperature: 190 – 200°F (88°C) is the proper temperature for pulled pork.
What temperature should a Pork Chop be cooked at?
Here are the internal temps to go by when making any pork dish (except ground). The recommendations are the same whether you’re making chops or a roast. Please note these temps are in Fahrenheit. The recommends a minimum temp of 145°F, with a 3-minute rest time, to avoid potential foodborne illnesses and health risks.