Savory Stuffed Pork Loin with Cranberry and Apple
This Savory Stuffed Pork Loin is a beloved family recipe that has been cherished for generations. Adapted for the modern kitchen and busy schedules, this dish combines the richness of tender pork loin with a delightful stuffing of savory herbs, sweet cranberries, and tart Granny Smith apples. The succulent flavors meld beautifully, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering or special occasion. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends, delivering a hearty meal that celebrates tradition while being accessible to the contemporary cook.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork Loin
4 lb (whole)
Fresh Sage Leaves
6-8 (whole)
Salt
to taste (none)
Pepper
to taste (none)
Olive Oil
as needed (for searing)
Stove Top Pork Stuffing Mix
6 oz (prepared as per package instructions)
Dried Cranberries
1/2 cup (none)
Granny Smith Apple
1 (chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Season the pork loin generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
3
Lay the fresh sage leaves evenly over the length of the pork loin, infusing it with aromatic flavor.
4
In a cast iron skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin on all sides until it is nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
5
In a mixing bowl, combine the prepared stuffing mix with dried cranberries and the chopped Granny Smith apple. Stir until thoroughly mixed.
6
Using a sharp knife, make a deep slit along one long side of the pork loin, creating a pocket for the stuffing. Be careful not to cut all the way through the loin.
7
Loosely pack the stuffing mixture into the pocket you created in the pork loin. Any excess stuffing can be arranged around the loin in the skillet.
8
Return the stuffed pork loin to the skillet, and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake on the top rack for 35-45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
9
Once done, remove the pork loin from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with additional sage if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this dish?
The name of this dish is Savory Stuffed Pork Loin with Cranberry and Apple.
How much pork loin is required?
You will need a 4 lb pork loin for this recipe.
What temperature should the oven be preheated to?
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
How do I season the pork?
Season the pork loin generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
What type of fresh herbs are used in the dish?
The dish uses 6 to 8 fresh sage leaves to infuse the pork with aromatic flavor.
Why should the pork be seared before baking?
Searing the pork loin in a skillet creates a nicely browned exterior and locks in flavor.
How long should the pork loin be seared?
Sear the pork loin on all sides for approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side.
What kind of skillet is recommended for this recipe?
A cast iron skillet is recommended for searing and then transferring to the oven.
What ingredients are combined for the stuffing mixture?
The stuffing is a mixture of prepared pork stuffing mix, dried cranberries, and chopped Granny Smith apple.
What type of apple is used in the stuffing?
One Granny Smith apple is used for its tartness and firm texture.
How should the Granny Smith apple be prepared?
The apple should be chopped before being mixed into the stuffing.
How do I create a pocket for the stuffing in the pork?
Use a sharp knife to make a deep slit along one long side of the pork loin.
What is an important precaution when cutting the pocket?
Be careful not to cut all the way through the pork loin while making the slit.
How should the stuffing mixture be packed into the pork?
The stuffing mixture should be loosely packed into the pocket of the pork loin.
What should I do if there is leftover stuffing?
Any excess stuffing can be arranged around the loin in the skillet before baking.
On which oven rack should the pork be baked?
The stuffed pork loin should be baked on the top rack of the oven.
How long does the stuffed pork loin take to bake?
The baking time is typically between 35 and 45 minutes.
What is the target internal temperature for the pork?
The pork is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius).
Should the pork rest after being removed from the oven?
Yes, let the pork loin rest for about 10 minutes before you slice and serve it.
Why is it important to let the meat rest?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains succulent and tender.
How can I garnish the final dish?
The dish can be garnished with additional fresh sage leaves if desired.
What specific brand of stuffing mix is used?
The recipe specifies Stove Top Pork Stuffing Mix, prepared according to package instructions.
How many sage leaves are needed?
You will need between 6 and 8 fresh sage leaves.
How much dried cranberries are required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of dried cranberries.
Is this recipe suitable for a busy schedule?
Yes, it is adapted for modern kitchens and busy schedules while remaining a hearty meal.
What are the primary flavors of this dish?
The dish features a blend of savory herbs, sweet cranberries, and tart apples.
Is this dish suitable for special occasions?
Yes, it is a perfect centerpiece for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
What is the weight of the stuffing mix package?
The recipe uses a 6 oz package of stuffing mix.
What is the history of this recipe?
It is a beloved family recipe that has been cherished for generations.
What type of oil is used for searing?
Olive oil is used to sear the pork loin in the skillet.