Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and creating memories. This year, why not try some delicious Pork Thanksgiving Recipes? My cousin Sarah once made a mouthwatering pork roast that had everyone asking for seconds. It was a hit and reminded us that turkey isn't the only star of the holiday table.
Why Youโll Love It
- Pork is juicy and flavorful, making it a fantastic alternative to turkey.
- These recipes are easy to prepare, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
- Pork pairs beautifully with seasonal flavors like apples, cranberries, and herbs.
Pure Comfort
There's something so comforting about a well-cooked pork dish. The aroma fills your home, making it feel warm and inviting. Plus, itโs a great way to bring family together around the table.
What You Need
- 1 4 lb pork loin – Trimmed and tied
- 2 2 tbsp olive oil – For searing
- 1 1 large yellow onion, diced – Adds sweetness
- 3 3 cloves garlic, minced – For flavor
- 1 1 cup chicken broth – Low sodium recommended
- 2 2 cups apples, sliced – Use a mix of sweet and tart
- 1 1 tsp cinnamon – For warmth
- to taste Salt and pepper – Season as desired
Time to Cook
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 1 hour 30 minutes | Total: 1 hour 45 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can prepare the pork and refrigerate it overnight.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 375 ยฐF. This ensures a nice, even cooking temperature for your pork loin.
- Season the pork loin generously with salt and pepper. This simple step helps to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork loin on all sides until it's golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. The aroma will be delightful.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You want to smell that garlic but avoid burning it.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the sliced apples and cinnamon. Bring to a simmer, then return the pork to the skillet, nestling it among the apples.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145 ยฐF. This will keep the pork juicy and tender.
- Once done, let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite flavorful.
- Serve the sliced pork with the apple mixture on the side. Itโs a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests!
Make It Perfect
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it takes the guesswork out of cooking.
- If you like a bit of sweetness, consider adding some brown sugar to the apple mixture.
- Pair this dish with roasted vegetables for a complete holiday meal.
Mix It Up
- Try adding dried cranberries for a festive touch.
- Swap the apples for pears for a different flavor profile.
Perfect Partners
- Mashed potatoes
- Green bean casserole
- Cranberry sauce
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FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pork and refrigerate it overnight. Just reheat before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooked pork in slices for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or even apple juice for a sweeter flavor.
What’s a good side dish for this pork recipe?
Roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh salad would pair nicely!
Conclusion
These Pork Thanksgiving Recipes are sure to dazzle your holiday gathering. They offer a delightful twist on traditional fare and are easy to prepare. So, this Thanksgiving, let pork take center stage and create a meal your family will remember for years to come.

Pork Thanksgiving Recipes for a Dazzling Holiday
Equipment
- Oven-safe skillet
Ingredients
Pork Loin
- 4 lb pork loin – Trimmed and tied
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For searing
- 1 large yellow onion, diced – Adds sweetness
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – For flavor
- 1 cup chicken broth – Low sodium recommended
- 2 cups apples, sliced – Use a mix of sweet and tart
- 1 tsp cinnamon – For warmth
- to taste Salt and pepper – Season as desired
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 ยฐF. This ensures a nice, even cooking temperature for your pork loin.
- Season the pork loin generously with salt and pepper. This simple step helps to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the pork loin on all sides until it’s golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. The aroma will be delightful.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You want to smell that garlic but avoid burning it.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the sliced apples and cinnamon. Bring to a simmer, then return the pork to the skillet, nestling it among the apples.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145 ยฐF. This will keep the pork juicy and tender.
- Once done, let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite flavorful.
- Serve the sliced pork with the apple mixture on the side. Itโs a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests!