Stuffed Pork Loin with Cranberries & Apples

The holidays are the perfect time to bring something special to the table, and this stuffed pork loin hits all the festive notes. Juicy pork is filled with sweet apples, tart cranberries, and savory herbs, making it a show-stopping centerpiece that’s easier to make than it looks. Perfect for holiday dinners or cozy winter gatherings, this dish is full of flavor and seasonal cheer.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Pork Loin & Seasoning

• 2–3 lb boneless pork loin
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary

Stuffing

• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp cinnamon

Before you start cooking, take a moment to gather your ingredients and envision how beautiful this dish will look on your holiday table. The combination of tender pork, sweet apples, and tart cranberries brings a perfect balance of flavors, while the breadcrumbs and butter in the stuffing add a comforting richness. This step also gives you a chance to prep your apples and cranberries, measure out your herbs and spices, and set everything within reach—making the cooking process smooth and stress-free. Once your ingredients are ready, the assembly comes together quickly, and your kitchen will start filling with the warm, festive aromas of the season.

HOW TO MAKE IT

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a roasting pan with foil for easy cleanup.

1. Using a sharp knife, carefully butterfly the pork loin by slicing it lengthwise almost to the bottom, then open it like a book. Season the inside with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
2. In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the apples, cranberries, garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, and cinnamon. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are slightly softened and fragrant.
3. Spread the apple-cranberry mixture evenly over the pork loin, then carefully roll the loin back up and secure with kitchen twine.
4. Rub the outside with olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the stuffed pork loin in the prepared roasting pan.
5. Roast for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
6. Slice and serve warm, letting the juices from the pork mingle with the sweet stuffing for maximum flavor.

This stuffed pork loin is festive, flavorful, and full of the seasonal ingredients that make December dinners so memorable. It’s a dish that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to pull together — perfect for celebrating with family and friends.