When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like a tender, flavorful roast pork loin smothered in a creamy, savory sauce. The combination of the pork’s rich taste with the smooth, slightly earthy notes of cream of mushroom soup creates a mouthwatering symphony of flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting friends, or looking for a simple, weeknight meal, this Pork Loin with Cream of Mushroom Soup recipe is perfect for all occasions.
What’s great about this dish is how it blends convenience with gourmet-style flavors. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a pro in the kitchen, even if you’re a beginner. You don’t have to spend hours preparing intricate dishes to get impressive results. With a few pantry staples and a little patience, you can whip up a meal that everyone will rave about.
Pork Loin And Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe
This dish involves slow-roasting the pork loin, then smothering it in a rich, creamy sauce made from the iconic cream of mushroom soup. The pork itself remains juicy, with crispy edges that contrast beautifully with the smooth sauce. And the beauty of this recipe? It requires minimal prep, yet the final product is incredibly impressive.
Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients Needed
- Pork Loin (about 3-4 pounds) – Make sure to choose a well-marbled cut. The fat renders as it cooks, ensuring a juicy and tender roast.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup (2 cans) – You’ll use this as the base of your sauce. The soup’s earthy flavor adds richness and a velvety texture to the dish.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Used for searing the pork loin, giving it a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
- Onion (1 large, chopped) – A sweet and savory component that enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
- Herbs (2 teaspoons dried thyme, 1 teaspoon rosemary) – These aromatic herbs give the dish an earthy, rustic flavor.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup) – Adds liquid to the sauce, preventing it from becoming too thick while infusing extra flavor.
- Salt and Pepper – For seasoning the pork and the sauce to taste.
- Fresh Parsley (optional, chopped) – For garnish, bringing a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot while you prep the pork.
- Prepare the Pork Loin: Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. This helps it sear nicely. Season generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- Sear the Pork: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork loin and sear it on all sides until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes per side). This step is crucial for locking in the juices and developing that crispy crust.
- Prepare the Sauce: Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits (that’s flavor!). Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and mix everything together.
- Combine and Roast: Return the pork loin to the skillet, making sure it’s mostly covered with the sauce. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once done, let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Serve with the creamy mushroom sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Ingredient Insights
- Pork Loin: This cut of pork is incredibly versatile, and when roasted properly, it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s lean but still flavorful due to its natural fat. A pork loin roast is often preferred over other cuts like pork tenderloin because it’s more forgiving and offers a juicier result when cooked slowly.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Often seen as a pantry staple, this ingredient serves as the foundation for a rich sauce. It’s not just about convenience; the soup brings an umami flavor from the mushrooms that works wonders when paired with the pork.
- Chicken Broth: Chicken broth is more than just a liquid here. It adds a savory depth that balances the richness of the soup, while preventing the sauce from becoming too heavy or one-dimensional.
- Herbs: The combination of thyme and rosemary is a classic pairing for pork. Thyme has a subtle lemony flavor that cuts through the richness, while rosemary adds an aromatic, slightly piney depth.
Expert Tips
- Searing Matters: Don’t skip the searing process! It creates a caramelized exterior that locks in the moisture, leading to a juicier roast.
- Low and Slow Cooking: If you want the pork to be extra tender, cook it low and slow. Consider cooking it at 325°F instead of 350°F, and letting it go for a little longer to achieve a fall-apart texture.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork, invest in a meat thermometer. This helps avoid overcooking and ensures the pork is done just right without being dry.
- Make It Ahead: If you want to save time, this dish can be prepped ahead. You can sear the pork and make the sauce a day in advance, then simply reheat and finish cooking when you’re ready.
- Add Mushrooms: For an extra mushroom flavor, sauté some fresh mushrooms and add them to the sauce before roasting the pork.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can substitute the pork loin with a large, meaty portobello mushroom. It has a similar texture and flavor profile when roasted.
- Add Veggies: Toss some vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans into the skillet with the pork. They’ll soak up the delicious sauce while roasting, creating a complete one-pan meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add a bit of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle, spicy twist that cuts through the richness of the cream.
- Smoky Flavor: For a smoky twist, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the seasoning blend or tossing in some cooked bacon bits into the sauce.
Final Words
This Pork Loin with Cream of Mushroom Soup is the ultimate recipe for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful meals without the hassle of complicated preparation. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel like you’re eating something fancy, but with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it for a Sunday dinner, a holiday feast, or just a cozy night at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The creamy mushroom sauce brings out the best in the pork, creating a comforting, rich, and savory dish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For A Pork Loin And Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe?
To make a pork loin and cream of mushroom soup, you will need pork loin, cream of mushroom soup, onions, garlic, chicken broth or water, salt, pepper, olive oil or butter, and optional herbs like thyme or rosemary. Some recipes may also include vegetables like carrots or potatoes.
How Do You Prepare The Pork Loin For This Recipe?
Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork loin. You can either cut it into cubes or leave it whole. To enhance the flavor, season the pork loin with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings before cooking.
Can I Use Fresh Mushrooms Instead Of Cream Of Mushroom Soup?
Yes, you can substitute fresh mushrooms for the cream of mushroom soup. In this case, you’ll need to sauté the mushrooms with onions and garlic, and then add a creamy base such as heavy cream or milk, along with broth to create the desired consistency.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Pork Loin In Cream Of Mushroom Soup?
The cooking time for pork loin in cream of mushroom soup depends on the size and thickness of the pork. If cooking a whole pork loin, it typically takes around 1-1.5 hours at 350°F (175°C) in the oven, or 30-45 minutes if cooked in a slow cooker on low. If using cubed pork, it will cook faster, usually within 20-30 minutes.
Can I Make This Dish In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, a slow cooker is an excellent method for making pork loin and cream of mushroom soup. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The pork will become tender and the flavors will meld together.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Pork Loin And Cream Of Mushroom Soup?
Pork loin with cream of mushroom soup pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Is It Possible To Make A Dairy-free Version Of This Recipe?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using dairy-free cream of mushroom soup and substituting coconut milk or almond milk for the cream. Additionally, ensure that your broth is also dairy-free if needed.
Can I Freeze Leftovers From This Recipe?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, be sure to do so slowly over low heat to prevent the pork from becoming dry.
What Are Some Variations I Can Make To The Recipe?
You can add vegetables such as carrots, peas, or green beans to the recipe. You can also experiment with different seasonings like paprika or garlic powder. For a tangy twist, add a splash of white wine or a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the soup.
Can I Use A Different Cut Of Pork For This Recipe?
Yes, while pork loin is commonly used, you can also use pork shoulder, pork tenderloin, or even boneless pork chops. The cooking time may vary depending on the cut you choose, with pork shoulder requiring longer cooking times for tenderness.