One-Pan Pork Loin with Brussels & Apples is a comforting yet elegant meal that brings together savory, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors in a beautifully balanced way. This dish is perfect for those who want a hearty, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen or dealing with excessive cleanup. The combination of juicy pork loin, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and tender apples creates a satisfying dinner that feels both rustic and refined.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks together on a single pan, allowing the flavors to blend naturally while saving time and effort. The pork loin roasts until tender and flavorful, the Brussels sprouts develop crispy edges, and the apples soften into sweet, aromatic bites that complement the savory meat perfectly. Whether you are preparing a family dinner, hosting guests, or meal-prepping for the week, this one-pan meal is reliable, nourishing, and impressive without being complicated.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with foil or lightly grease it with oil.
- Pat the pork loin dry using paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the pork loin.
- Place the pork loin in the center of the prepared baking sheet.
- In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts, apples, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the vegetables and apples around the pork loin in an even layer.
- Roast uncovered for 40–45 minutes, turning the vegetables halfway through.
- If the pork browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil.
- Continue roasting until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the pork and serve with roasted Brussels sprouts and apples.
Notes
Nutritional Facts and Total Calories (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 42 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
One-Pan Pork Loin with Brussels & Apples
Ingredient Notes
Pork Loin:
Pork loin is a lean yet tender cut that works exceptionally well for roasting. It absorbs flavors beautifully while remaining juicy when cooked correctly. Unlike pork tenderloin, pork loin is slightly larger and requires a longer cooking time, making it ideal for oven roasting alongside vegetables.
Brussels Sprouts:
Brussels sprouts provide a slightly nutty, earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the apples. When roasted, they develop crispy edges and a soft interior. Trimming and halving them ensures even cooking and better caramelization.
Apples:
Apples add a natural sweetness and subtle acidity that complement the savory pork. Firm apple varieties such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala hold their shape during roasting and do not become mushy.
Olive Oil:
Olive oil helps the ingredients roast evenly while enhancing flavor. It also promotes browning and prevents sticking to the pan.
Garlic:
Garlic adds depth and aroma to the dish. Freshly minced garlic provides the strongest and most fragrant flavor.
Thyme:
Thyme pairs exceptionally well with pork and roasted vegetables. Its subtle herbal notes enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
Rosemary:
Rosemary adds a warm, woodsy aroma that complements both pork and apples. Using it sparingly ensures balance.
Dijon Mustard:
Dijon mustard adds tanginess and complexity while helping the seasoning adhere to the pork loin.
Honey:
Honey provides gentle sweetness and helps caramelize the vegetables and apples during roasting.
Apple Cider Vinegar:
Apple cider vinegar balances sweetness with acidity, brightening the dish and enhancing overall flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper:
These foundational seasonings bring out the natural flavors of each ingredient.
Paprika:
Paprika adds mild warmth and a hint of smokiness without adding heat.
Onion:
Onions add sweetness and depth as they roast, blending beautifully with the apples and Brussels sprouts.
Serving Instructions
Slice the pork loin into even portions and arrange on a serving platter. Spoon the roasted Brussels sprouts, apples, and onions around the pork slices. Serve warm as a complete meal on its own or alongside simple sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. This dish also pairs well with a fresh green salad for a balanced dinner.
Tips
- Allow the pork to rest before slicing to retain its juices.
- Cut vegetables evenly to ensure uniform roasting.
- For extra crisp Brussels sprouts, place them cut-side down on the pan.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking the pork.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey depending on preference.
Storage Information
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze pork and vegetables separately for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I use pork tenderloin instead of pork loin?
Yes, but pork tenderloin cooks faster and may require a reduced cooking time.
2. What apples work best for this recipe?
Firm apples such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are ideal for roasting.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving.
4. How do I prevent the pork from drying out?
Use a meat thermometer and remove the pork at 145°F, then let it rest.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips work well in this recipe.
