Are you looking to grill a boneless pork loin but not sure how long it will take?
Look no further!
Grilling a pork loin can be a delicious and satisfying meal, but it’s important to know the proper cooking time to ensure it’s cooked to perfection.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about grilling a boneless pork loin, including cooking times, seasoning tips, and grilling techniques.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this guide will help you achieve juicy and flavorful results every time.
So grab your apron and let’s get grilling!
How Long To Grill Boneless Pork Loin?
The cooking time for a boneless pork loin can vary depending on the size of the cut and the temperature of your grill. As a general rule of thumb, it takes approximately 20 minutes of cooking time per pound of meat.
For a 2-3 pound boneless pork loin, it will take around 1 to 1.5 hours to fully grill. The grill should be preheated to 350 degrees F and the pork loin should be cooked over indirect heat until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F.
It’s important to remember that cooking to temperature is more important than cooking to time when it comes to meat. Always keep an instant-read meat thermometer handy and take the temperature periodically throughout the cook. Adjust the cook time as needed, and keep in mind that smaller or larger roasts will have different cook times as well.
Preparing The Pork Loin For Grilling
Before grilling your boneless pork loin, it’s important to properly prepare it. First, pat the pork loin dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help ensure that the pork doesn’t steam and will allow for a crispy exterior.
Next, season the pork loin with your desired seasoning. A simple combination of salt and pepper works well, but you can also use a homemade or store-bought seasoning blend for added flavor. If using a rub or seasoning blend, make sure to apply it evenly to all sides of the pork loin.
Once seasoned, it’s time to get the grill ready. For a boneless pork loin, it’s recommended to use a two-zone grilling method. This means that one side of the grill should be heated to high heat for direct cooking (getting a crisp crust and char), while the other side should be left on low or unlit for indirect cooking (cooking the pork to the correct internal temperature).
If using a gas grill, heat one side to high or medium-high heat and leave the other side unlit. If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals on one side of the grill and leave the other side empty.
Sear the pork loin for 5 minutes per side over direct heat, then move it to indirect heat. Cook the roast for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to periodically check the temperature throughout the cook.
Once done, remove the pork loin from the grill and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to settle in for optimal flavor. Pair with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or slaw.
Seasoning Options For Boneless Pork Loin
To add some extra flavor to your boneless pork loin, consider using a dry rub or a marinade. For a dry rub, combine salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the mixture all over the pork loin before grilling. This will create a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
If you prefer a marinade, mix together honey, dijon mustard, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil. Reserve two tablespoons of the sauce for the veggies and brush the rest over the pork loin before grilling. Marinating the meat for at least 4 hours or overnight will infuse it with flavor and keep it moist during cooking.
For a spicy kick, try mixing brown sugar, chili powder, oregano, paprika, cinnamon, garlic powder, and sea salt for a flavorful dry rub. Or, mix together mustard powder, ginger, onion powder, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, cumin, paprika, thyme and brown sugar for a sweet and spicy rub.
No matter which seasoning option you choose for your boneless pork loin, make sure to let it rest for 10 minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat before slicing and serving.
Direct Vs. Indirect Grilling Methods
When it comes to grilling boneless pork loin, there are two main methods to choose from: direct and indirect grilling. Direct grilling involves placing the meat directly over the heat source, while indirect grilling involves cooking the meat away from the heat source.
Direct grilling is best for smaller cuts of meat that cook quickly, such as pork chops. For a boneless pork loin, direct grilling can be used to sear the meat and create a crispy crust on the outside. To do this, preheat the grill to high and place the pork loin directly over the heat source. Sear each side for 5 minutes before moving it to indirect heat to finish cooking.
Indirect grilling is best for larger cuts of meat that require longer cooking times. This method allows the meat to cook evenly without burning or drying out. To cook a boneless pork loin using indirect heat, preheat the grill to 350 degrees F and arrange the coals on one side of the grill or turn off one burner on a gas grill. Place the pork loin on the opposite side of the grill and close the lid. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F, which should take around 1 to 1.5 hours for a 2-3 pound roast.
Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the method that works best for your specific cut of meat and desired outcome. Direct grilling can create a delicious crust on the outside of the meat, but may result in uneven cooking or burning if not monitored closely. Indirect grilling allows for even cooking and juicy results, but may not create a crispy exterior like direct grilling can.
How Long To Grill Boneless Pork Loin: Temperature And Timing Guidelines
When grilling a boneless pork loin, it’s crucial to monitor the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it’s cooked to perfection. Here are some temperature and timing guidelines to help you achieve the ideal result:
– For a medium-rare pork loin with an internal temperature of 145°F, it takes about 25 minutes to grill a 2-3 pound cut at 450°F.
– For a medium-rare pork loin with an internal temperature of 145°F, it takes about 22-27 minutes to grill a 2-3 pound cut at 350°F.
– For a medium pork loin with an internal temperature of 150°F-155°F, it takes about 27-30 minutes to grill a 2-3 pound cut at 350°F.
– For a medium-well pork loin with an internal temperature of 155°F-160°F, it takes about 29+ minutes to grill a 2-3 pound cut at 350°F.
However, these are just rough estimates and the exact timing will depend on various factors such as the size and thickness of the pork loin, the grill temperature fluctuations, and your personal preference.
To ensure that your boneless pork loin is perfectly cooked, use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature periodically throughout the grilling process. Remember to cook to temperature and not to time. The meat will continue to rise in temperature by about 2° to 4° after it’s removed from the grill, so take that into account when checking the temperature.
Resting And Serving Your Grilled Pork Loin
Once your boneless pork loin has reached an internal temperature of 145 degrees F, it’s time to remove it from the grill. However, before you start slicing into the meat, it’s crucial to let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
While the pork loin is resting, cover it with aluminum foil to keep it warm. This is also a good time to prepare any sides or sauces that you plan on serving with the pork loin.
When it’s time to slice the meat, make sure to cut against the grain for maximum tenderness. Cut the pork loin into 1/4-inch slices and serve with your favorite sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, baked mac and cheese, or a buttery dollop of grits are all great options that pair well with grilled pork loin.
Tips And Tricks For Perfectly Grilled Boneless Pork Loin
Grilling a boneless pork loin can be intimidating, but with these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to achieve a perfectly grilled roast every time.
1. Use the “zone cooking” technique: To ensure even cooking and a crispy crust, use a two-zone cooking method. One area of the grill should be turned to high heat for direct cooking, while the other should be low or unlit for indirect heat. Sear the pork loin on the high-heat side for 5 minutes per side, then move it to the low-heat side to cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
2. Let the meat rest: Once the pork loin is cooked, let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the meat to finish cooking from residual heat and for the juices to settle in for optimal flavor.
3. Season properly: Season your pork loin with your desired seasonings, but avoid adding more salt if you’ve already brined it. You can also use a rub or marinade to add extra flavor.
4. Use a meat thermometer: Keep an instant-read meat thermometer handy and take the temperature periodically throughout the cook. The final internal temperature should be between 145°F to 160°F for a nicely done pork loin.
5. Freeze for later: If you want to prep your pork loin ahead of time, you can freeze it in a gallon-sized freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it safely before cooking.
With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to grill a boneless pork loin that’s juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time.
