Imagine a dinner that combines the bold, rich flavors of bourbon and the sweet, caramel notes of cola, perfectly glazing a tender, juicy pork loin that will make your taste buds dance with excitement. This isn't just another ordinary recipe – it's a game-changing culinary experience that transforms a simple pork loin into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece right in your own kitchen. With just a few ingredients and some clever cooking techniques, you'll create a dish that looks impressive, tastes extraordinary, and will have your family and guests begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 (1.5-2 pound) pork loin
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup cola
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Remove the pork loin from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear.
- Season the pork loin generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and sear the pork loin on all sides until a golden-brown crust forms, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, cola, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined to create the sauce.
- Pour the bourbon-cola sauce over the seared pork loin in the skillet, making sure to coat the meat evenly.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork loin rest for 10-15 minutes, which allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist result.
- After resting, slice the pork loin against the grain and drizzle with the remaining pan sauce before serving.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork loin rest at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Searing Secrets: Pat the meat dry before searing to achieve that gorgeous golden-brown crust that locks in flavor.
- Meat Thermometer Magic: Use a meat thermometer to hit the perfect 145°F internal temperature – this guarantees a juicy, perfectly cooked pork loin every time.
- Sauce Sensation: Don't discard the pan drippings! They're liquid gold and contain incredible concentrated flavors to drizzle over your sliced meat.
- Resting Matters: Allow your pork loin to rest after cooking. This crucial step helps redistribute juices, ensuring each slice is moist and tender.
- Versatile Sides: This bourbon cola pork loin pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp apple slaw.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 95mg
