Are you ready to transform an ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds? This Mesquite Pork Loin with Parmesan Roasted Potatoes is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned pork with a smoky mesquite kick, paired with crispy Parmesan-crusted potatoes that crunch with every bite. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this recipe promises restaurant-quality results that will make you look like a culinary genius.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 (1-2 pound) pork loin
- 2 tablespoons mesquite seasoning
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
- Remove the pork loin from refrigeration and pat dry with paper towels. This helps achieve better seasoning adherence and a more even sear.
- Generously rub the entire pork loin with mesquite seasoning, ensuring complete and even coverage on all sides. Let the seasoned meat rest at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.
- While the pork rests, prepare the potatoes. Peel and cut potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure consistent roasting.
- In a mixing bowl, toss potato cubes with olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat each potato piece evenly.
- Place the seasoned pork loin in a large roasting pan or cast-iron skillet. Arrange the seasoned potato cubes around the meat, spreading them in a single layer.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the pork loin, being careful not to touch bone or fat.
- Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Remove from oven and let the pork loin rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Slice the pork loin against the grain into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Serve alongside the crispy Parmesan roasted potatoes.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork is cooked perfectly. Aim for 145°F for a juicy, tender result.
- Room Temperature Matters: Let your pork loin sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even seasoning and cooking.
- Even Potato Cutting: Cut potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes to guarantee consistent roasting and crispy edges.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let your meat rest 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Seasoning Tip: Don't be shy with the mesquite seasoning—it's the secret weapon that gives this dish its incredible flavor profile.
- Crispy Potato Hack: For extra crispy potatoes, spread them in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 90mg
