Cinnamon-Spiced Pork Loin with Roasted Potatoes: A Flavorful Fall Feast

Fall is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a hearty and flavorful meal? This cinnamon-spiced pork loin with roasted potatoes is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly evening. The combination of savory pork, sweet cinnamon, and earthy potatoes creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s relatively easy to make, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

## Why This Recipe Works

This recipe stands out for several reasons:

* **Flavor Profile:** The cinnamon adds a warm, subtly sweet note that complements the savory pork beautifully. It’s not overpowering, but rather enhances the overall flavor profile.
* **Ease of Preparation:** Roasting is a simple and relatively hands-off cooking method. Once the pork is prepped and the potatoes are chopped, the oven does most of the work.
* **One-Pan Meal:** Roasting the pork loin and potatoes together simplifies cleanup. Everything cooks in one pan, saving you time and effort.
* **Versatility:** You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking. Add other vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. Adjust the spices to suit your taste.
* **Impressive Presentation:** A beautifully roasted pork loin makes a stunning centerpiece for any meal.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

**For the Pork Loin:**

* 1 (2-3 pound) pork loin roast, trimmed of excess fat
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)

**For the Roasted Potatoes:**

* 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Optional: 1 onion, quartered

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to make the perfect cinnamon-spiced pork loin with roasted potatoes:

**Preparation (20 minutes):**

1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure the rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
2. **Prepare the Pork Loin:** Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels. This helps create a nice crust during roasting. Trim off any excess silver skin or large pieces of fat. While some fat is desirable for flavor, too much can result in a greasy final product.
3. **Make the Spice Rub:** In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. The smoked paprika adds a depth of flavor that complements the cinnamon.
4. **Apply the Spice Rub:** Rub the spice mixture all over the pork loin, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Press the spices into the meat so they adhere well. This step is crucial for infusing the pork with flavor.
5. **Add Dijon Mustard and Maple Syrup (Optional):** In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and maple syrup (if using). Spread this mixture evenly over the spiced pork loin. The Dijon mustard adds a tangy note, while the maple syrup provides a touch of sweetness that complements the cinnamon.
6. **Prepare the Potatoes:** While the pork is resting, prepare the potatoes. Wash and scrub the Yukon Gold potatoes. Cut them into 1-inch cubes. Yukon Gold potatoes are a good choice because they have a creamy texture and hold their shape well during roasting. You can use other types of potatoes, but the cooking time may vary.
7. **Season the Potatoes:** In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, dried rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Rosemary adds a fragrant and earthy note to the potatoes.
8. **Optional: Prepare the Onion:** If you’re using onion, quarter it and add it to the bowl with the potatoes. The onion will caramelize as it roasts, adding a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.

**Roasting (45-60 minutes):**

9. **Arrange the Potatoes:** Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. If you have a rimmed baking sheet, that’s ideal, as it will prevent any juices from spilling over. If not, use a regular baking sheet and be careful when moving it in and out of the oven.
10. **Place the Pork Loin:** Place the spiced pork loin on top of the potatoes in the center of the baking sheet. This allows the pork juices to drip down and flavor the potatoes. Make sure the potatoes are not overcrowded, as this can prevent them from browning properly.
11. **Roast:** Roast in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork loin reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the pork loin, avoiding any bones. For medium doneness, aim for 145°F (63°C). For medium-well, aim for 150°F (66°C). Be careful not to overcook the pork loin, as it can become dry.
12. **Check the Potatoes:** While the pork is roasting, check the potatoes periodically. If they are browning too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly or tent the baking sheet with aluminum foil. You can also toss the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly.

**Resting and Serving (15 minutes):**

13. **Rest the Pork Loin:** Once the pork loin reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork loin. Do not skip this step!
14. **Slice the Pork Loin:** After resting, slice the pork loin into 1/2-inch thick slices. Use a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts. Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
15. **Serve:** Serve the sliced pork loin with the roasted potatoes. Drizzle any pan juices over the pork and potatoes for added flavor.

## Tips for Success

* **Choose the Right Pork Loin:** Look for a pork loin roast that is even in thickness. This will ensure that it cooks evenly. Avoid pork loins that are excessively fatty, as they can be greasy.
* **Don’t Overcook the Pork:** Overcooked pork loin can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that it reaches the correct internal temperature. Remove it from the oven when it reaches 145°F (63°C) and let it rest.
* **Space the Potatoes:** Make sure the potatoes are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding the potatoes will prevent them from browning properly.
* **Use Fresh Herbs:** If you have fresh rosemary, use it instead of dried. Fresh herbs add a more vibrant flavor to the dish.
* **Adjust the Spices:** Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you like a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice rub. If you prefer a sweeter dish, add more maple syrup.
* **Get a Good Sear:** For an even richer flavor consider searing the pork loin in a hot skillet before roasting. This will create a beautiful brown crust and lock in the juices.
* **Brining:** For an even more moist and flavorful pork loin, consider brining it before roasting. A simple brine can be made with water, salt, and sugar. Submerge the pork loin in the brine for several hours or overnight, then rinse and pat dry before proceeding with the recipe.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** Invest in a good quality meat thermometer. This is the best way to ensure that your pork loin is cooked to the perfect temperature. Digital thermometers are generally more accurate and easier to read than analog thermometers.
* **Roast at a High Temperature:** Roasting at a high temperature helps to create a nice crust on the pork loin and allows the potatoes to brown properly. However, be sure to keep an eye on the pork and potatoes to prevent them from burning.
* **Don’t Open the Oven Too Often:** Opening the oven too often can lower the temperature and increase the cooking time. Try to resist the urge to peek until the pork loin is almost done.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Vegetables:** Add other vegetables to the roasting pan, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or parsnips. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
* **Potatoes:** Use different types of potatoes, such as red potatoes or fingerling potatoes. The cooking time may vary.
* **Spices:** Experiment with different spices, such as thyme, sage, or oregano. Use a different blend of spices for the potatoes to complement the pork.
* **Sweetener:** Use honey or brown sugar instead of maple syrup.
* **Mustard:** Use a different type of mustard, such as whole grain mustard or spicy brown mustard.
* **Wine:** Add a splash of white wine to the roasting pan for added flavor.
* **Apple Cider Vinegar:** Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the spice rub for a tangy flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

This cinnamon-spiced pork loin with roasted potatoes is a complete meal in itself. However, you can also serve it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.

Here are some specific serving suggestions:

* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the pork and potatoes.
* **Steamed Vegetables:** Steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are healthy and flavorful side dishes.
* **Crusty Bread:** Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious pan juices.
* **Applesauce:** Applesauce is a classic accompaniment to pork.
* **Cranberry Sauce:** Cranberry sauce adds a festive touch to the meal.
* **Green Bean Casserole:** A classic holiday side dish.
* **Mashed Sweet Potatoes:** A sweet and savory side dish that complements the cinnamon spice.

## Make-Ahead Tips

* **Spice Rub:** You can make the spice rub ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
* **Potatoes:** You can chop the potatoes ahead of time and store them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Drain and pat dry before using.
* **Pork Loin:** You can rub the pork loin with the spice mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before roasting.

## Storage Instructions

* **Leftovers:** Store leftover pork loin and potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat leftover pork loin and potatoes in the oven or microwave. Be careful not to overcook the pork loin, as it can become dry.

## Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

(Note: This is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.)

* Calories: 450-550
* Protein: 40-50g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g

## Conclusion

This cinnamon-spiced pork loin with roasted potatoes is a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for fall. The combination of savory pork, sweet cinnamon, and earthy potatoes creates a flavor sensation that will leave you wanting more. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly memorable meal! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy!