Savory Garlic-Infused Pork Loin
Indulge in this incredibly flavorful Savory Garlic-Infused Pork Loin, expertly stuffed with aromatic garlic cloves and infused with Creole seasonings. Each juicy slice offers a perfect balance of rich, savory flavors that will delight your taste buds. This dish is not only fantastic right off the grill; the leftovers make for delicious sandwiches or salads the next day. Pair it with a refreshing potato salad for a complete meal. For those who crave a little heat, feel free to add a slice of jalapeño to each garlic hole for an extra kick. Whether served hot or cold, this pork loin is sure to impress at your next gathering!
N/A
Servings
210
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Center cut pork loin
3 3/4 lbs (whole)
Garlic
3-4 cloves (peeled and sliced)
Creole seasoning
2 teaspoons (for seasoning)
Beer or chicken stock (optional)
1 (12 ounce) can (for basting)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill: For gas grills, set to high heat for about 10 minutes, then reduce to low. For charcoal, sear the pork over direct heat before moving it to indirect heat.
2
Prepare the pork: Use a sharp paring knife to cut approximately 18 slits into the fatty side of the pork loin, creating small pockets for the garlic.
3
Stuff with garlic: Insert at least one slice of garlic into each slit, aiming to push it toward the center of the loin.
4
Season the pork: Generously rub the exterior of the loin with the Creole seasoning, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
5
Grill the pork: Place the loin on the grill and cook for around 15 minutes. Gently roll the loin over after 15 minutes and baste it with beer or chicken stock.
6
Continue grilling: Rotate the loin a quarter turn every 15 minutes and baste each time, allowing for even cooking and added moisture.
7
Check for doneness: After approximately 45-60 minutes (exact time may vary based on grill heat), check the internal temperature of the pork with a meat thermometer. It should read 160°F (71°C).
8
Rest the meat: Once cooked, remove the pork from heat, cover it with foil, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition Information
9
Fat
1.5
Carbs
28
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Garlic-Infused Pork Loin?
It is a flavorful pork dish stuffed with garlic slices, seasoned with Creole spices, and grilled until juicy and tender.
What cut of meat is used for this recipe?
This recipe calls for a 3 3/4 lb center cut pork loin.
How do I prepare the garlic for stuffing?
You should peel and slice 3-4 cloves of garlic before inserting them into the pork.
How many slits should I cut into the pork?
You should cut approximately 18 slits into the fatty side of the pork loin.
Where should the slits be placed?
The slits should be cut into the fatty side of the meat using a sharp paring knife.
How deep should the garlic be inserted?
Aim to push the garlic slices toward the center of the pork loin for maximum flavor infusion.
What seasoning is recommended for the rub?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of Creole seasoning to rub the exterior of the loin.
How do I prepare a gas grill for this recipe?
Set the grill to high heat for 10 minutes, then reduce it to low before cooking.
How do I cook this on a charcoal grill?
Sear the pork over direct heat first, then move it to an indirect heat area to finish cooking.
What can I use for basting the pork?
You can use a 12-ounce can of beer or chicken stock for basting.
How long do I cook the pork before the first turn?
The loin should be placed on the grill and cooked for about 15 minutes before the first turn.
How often should I rotate the pork loin?
Rotate the loin a quarter turn every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
When should I baste the meat?
Baste the pork with beer or chicken stock every time you rotate it, starting after the first 15 minutes.
What is the total estimated grilling time?
The total grilling time is approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on your grill's heat.
What is the safe internal temperature for the pork?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) as measured by a meat thermometer.
Should I let the meat rest after grilling?
Yes, remove the pork from the heat, cover it with foil, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
How can I add extra spice to this recipe?
For extra heat, you can add a slice of jalapeño to each garlic hole.
What are some serving suggestions for leftovers?
Leftovers are excellent when used in sandwiches or salads the following day.
What side dish goes well with this pork?
A refreshing potato salad is a great accompaniment for this savory meal.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 210 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains about 9 grams of fat.
Is this recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, it is very low in carbs with only 1.5 grams per serving.
How much protein is in one serving?
One serving provides 28 grams of protein.
Can I serve this pork cold?
Yes, this dish can be served either hot or cold.
How many ingredients are needed?
The recipe requires 4 main ingredients: pork loin, garlic, Creole seasoning, and beer or stock.
Is the basting liquid mandatory?
The beer or chicken stock is optional but recommended for keeping the meat moist.
How do I ensure the seasoning is even?
Generously rub the Creole seasoning over the entire exterior of the loin, ensuring all sides are covered.
What tool should I use to check for doneness?
A meat thermometer is the best tool to ensure the pork reaches the correct internal temperature.
What is the prep time involved for the garlic?
Prep involves simply peeling and slicing 3-4 cloves, which takes only a few minutes.
Can I use this recipe for a smaller loin?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the number of garlic slits accordingly.