Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin
Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is a classic Southern dish that combines tender, juicy pork loin with a sweet and tangy Coca-Cola glaze. This easy-to-make recipe balances savory spices, the sweetness of brown sugar and Coca-Cola, and a mild tang from apple cider vinegar to create a flavorful main course perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 to 3 lbs pork loin
- 1 cup Coca-Cola
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Prepare and Season the Pork: Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Rub it evenly with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to infuse it with savory flavors.
- Sear the Pork Loin: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the pork loin on all sides until it develops a golden brown crust. This locks in the juices and builds flavor.
- Mix the Coca-Cola Sauce: While the pork sears, combine Coca-Cola, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved to make a sweet and tangy sauce.
- Bake the Pork Loin: Transfer the seared pork loin to a baking dish, pour the Coca-Cola mixture over it, and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Reduce the Sauce: Remove the pork loin from the baking dish and let it rest. Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it thickens to a glossy glaze.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the rested pork loin and drizzle with the reduced Coca-Cola glaze. Serve with preferred sides and garnishes.
Notes
- Pat Dry for Searing: Removing moisture helps achieve a crispy, well-browned exterior.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures perfectly cooked pork without overcooking or drying it out.
- Rest the Meat: Let the pork rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute.
- Simmer Sauce Separately: Reducing the sauce apart from the pork intensifies flavor and thickens the glaze.
- Choose Quality Coca-Cola: Using classic Coca-Cola provides authentic sweet caramel notes essential for this dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (114 g)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Coca-Cola pork loin, Southern pork recipe, sweet and savory pork, pork loin glaze, easy pork dinner, baked pork loin, Coca-Cola glaze pork