Pork is a versatile and popular meat that comes from pigs. There are many different cuts of pork that can be prepared in various ways. Two of the most common cuts used for roasting are the pork loin roast and pork tenderloin. Both cuts yield tender, juicy meat when roasted, but they have some differences that impact flavor and texture. This article will compare pork loin roast and pork tenderloin to help you decide which is better for your cooking needs.
What is Pork Loin Roast?
Pork loin roast comes from the loin section of the pig, which runs from the shoulder through the hip. This area contains little fat and connective tissue, making it lean yet tender when cooked properly.
Pork loin roasts are sold bone-in or boneless. A full bone-in pork loin roast contains the loin muscle attached to the pork ribs and backbone. The boneless version is just the loin muscle itself, sometimes tied into a uniform shape for roasting.
Boneless pork loin roasts are oval or cylindrical in shape and weigh between 2 to 4 pounds. Since the bone has been removed, boneless roasts will cook faster than bone-in. They also allow for easier carving.
What is Pork Tenderloin?
The pork tenderloin is an oblong, tube-shaped muscle that runs along the spine of the pig. It’s located inside the loin primal cut below the backbone.
Pork tenderloins are very tender because they contain little connective tissue. However, they are also much smaller than a pork loin roast. Tenderloins usually weigh between 1⁄2 to 1 1⁄2 pounds each, so you often need multiple to feed a group.
Since the tenderloin does minimal work, it has less fat marbling compared to other pork cuts. This makes it lean with a mild flavor.
Nutrition Comparison
Both pork loin roast and pork tenderloin are lean, healthy cuts of meat:
| Nutrient | 3 oz Pork Loin Roast | 3 oz Pork Tenderloin |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 122 | 120 |
| Fat | 2.3g | 1g |
| Protein | 25g | 24g |
| Iron | 0.9mg | 0.9mg |
As you can see, both meats are high in protein and low in fat and calories. The tenderloin has slightly less fat than the loin roast. But overall, they are both nutritious options.
Flavor
Pork loin roast has a more pronounced pork flavor than tenderloin. This is because the loin contains more fat marbling, which enhances the flavor as it renders during cooking. The tenderloin is very mild tasting and lean.
Any seasonings and spices you add will be absorbed more by the tenderloin since it doesn’t have as much natural pork flavor. Simple seasoning like salt, pepper and herbs work well with tenderloins.
The pork loin benefits from bolder seasoning blends, brines and marinades since its flavor stands up to them. You can also elevate the loin roast flavor with a spice rub.
Texture
When roasted correctly, both pork loin and tenderloin turn out tender and juicy.
However, the loin roast has a slightly firmer texture than the tenderloin. This meatier chew comes from the connective tissue in the loin muscle.
The tenderloin has an ultra-fine, smooth texture since it contains no connective tissue. It can become dry if overcooked.
Loin roast has a little more protective fat that keeps it moist during roasting. The lack of fat in the tenderloin means it can overcook quickly.
Cooking Methods
Loin roast and tenderloin can both be prepared using dry heat cooking methods like roasting, grilling, broiling or pan searing.
However, the size differences between the cuts means they require different approaches:
Pork Loin Roast
The pork loin roast’s large size requires a longer cooking time at lower heat. Roast it uncovered in a 300-325°F oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and rests for 5 minutes. This extended time allows the interior to cook through without overdoing the exterior.
You can enhance flavor by searing the roast first and basting it as it cooks. Bone-in loin roasts take even longer than boneless, so plan accordingly.
Pork Tenderloin
Since pork tenderloins are small, they cook much faster using high heat methods. Grill or broil them over direct heat or pan sear them on the stovetop. Cook to an internal temperature of 145°F.
To prevent overcooking, it helps to butterly the tenderloin first so it cooks evenly. You can also roast tenderloins in a hot 425°F oven for 15-25 minutes. Just watch the temperature closely so they don’t dry out.
Ease of Preparation
Pork tenderloin requires very little preparation since it’s already an individual portion size. Simply trim off any excess fat or silver skin, then season as desired.
Preparing a pork loin roast takes a bit more work. You’ll need to remove it from packaging and pat it dry. Tie it with cooking twine to maintain shape if boneless. Score the fat cap if present.
Seasoning and searing also takes more time compared to quickly seasoning a tenderloin. But neither roast requires advanced skills.
Cost Comparison
Pork loin roasts tend to cost slightly less per pound compared to tenderloins.
Here are some average per-pound prices for each:
| Cut | Average Cost Per Pound |
|---|---|
| Pork Loin Roast | $3.99 – $5.99 |
| Pork Tenderloin | $5.99 – $9.99 |
Keep in mind you need around 1 pound of tenderloin per person, while 1 pork loin roast feeds multiple people. The tenderloin’s small size leads to the higher price tag.
Sales prices can affect the costs. Loin roasts often go on sale more frequently than tenderloins as well.
Versatility
Both pork loin roast and tenderloin are versatile cuts you can use in a variety of recipes:
Pork Loin Roast
– Roast with vegetables
– Stuffed loin roast
– Chili verde with roasted pork
– Tacos with sliced roasted pork
– Sandwiches with roasted pork
– Pork salad or wraps using sliced roasted pork
Pork Tenderloin
– Roasted whole tenderloin
– Pork medallions
– Tenderloin with pan sauce
– Tenderloin stuffed with herbs and cheese
– Thinly sliced tenderloin for stir fries or fajitas
– Tenderloin kabobs
The loin roast feeds more people, so it works for larger dishes and meal prepping. The individual tenderloins work well for quick weeknight meals.
Conclusion
Pork loin roast and pork tenderloin each have their advantages, so it really comes down to your cooking needs:
- Pork loin roast offers more pork flavor and feeds a crowd at a lower cost. It’s a better choice for large roasts and meal prepping.
- Pork tenderloin has an ultra-tender, mild flavor. The smaller size works for fast weeknight meals for 1-2 people.
For special gatherings and big holiday meals, a seasoned and roasted bone-in pork loin is tough to beat. The pork tenderloin makes an easy, fuss-free dinner any night of the week. It also cooks faster than a big roast.
So rather than deciding between them, it’s helpful to keep both pork loin roast and tenderloin in your cooking repertoire. That way you can select the right cut for every occasion and recipe. Both deliver juicy, delicious roasted pork.