Cedar Plank Pork Loin
Infuse your next barbecue with the rich, smoky aroma of this Cedar Plank Pork Loin, a recipe that elevates classic grilling to gourmet status. Featuring a tender 2-pound pork loin marinated in a savory blend of minced garlic, fresh rosemary, thyme, paprika, and black pepper, this dish delivers a burst of herbaceous flavor in every bite. As it grills gently atop a cedar plank, the wood imparts a subtle smoky essence, while a honey and lemon glaze adds a perfectly balanced, caramelized finish. This show-stopping main dish is perfect for backyard gatherings or special occasions, offering a stunning centerpiece with minimal effort. With just 30 minutes of prep time, it’s an easy yet impressive recipe that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Optimize your grilling game and savor the art of cedar plank cooking!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 large piece cedar plank
- 2 pounds pork loin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 pieces garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour. This prevents it from catching fire on the grill and ensures it produces smoke.
Trim any excess fat from the pork loin, pat it dry with paper towels, and place it on a clean plate or tray.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful rub.
Rub the mixture all over the pork loin, ensuring even coating. Let it sit for 20 minutes at room temperature to marinate and absorb the flavors.
In another bowl, whisk together honey and lemon juice to create a glaze. Set aside for later use.
Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F). Set up the grill for indirect cooking by turning off one side of the burners or arranging coals to one side.
Place the soaked cedar plank directly over the heat for 3-5 minutes until it starts to smoke lightly and develops a mild crackling sound. Flip it once during this time to heat both sides.
Move the cedar plank to the cooler side of the grill. Lay the marinated pork loin on top of the plank.
Close the grill lid and cook for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork loin reaches 145°F when tested with a meat thermometer.
In the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the pork loin with the honey-lemon glaze for a glossy, caramelized finish.
Once cooked, remove the pork loin from the cedar plank and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to retain its juices.
Slice the pork loin into even portions and serve warm. Enjoy the delicious smoky flavor with your favorite sides!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2540 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 155.4 g | 199% | |
| Saturated Fat | 49.8 g | 249% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 717 mg | 239% | |
| Sodium | 1452 mg | 63% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 23.7 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.7 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.8 g | ||
| Protein | 246.1 g | 492% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 204 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 9.5 mg | 53% | |
| Potassium | 3970 mg | 84% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
