A stuffed pork roast makes for an impressive and comforting main course. When you get that savory pork paired with a delicious stuffing it’s a mealtime winner. But cooking a 2lb stuffed pork roast properly can be tricky. Undercook it and the stuffing might not get hot enough. Overdo it and you’ll end up with dry, overcooked meat.
Follow this guide to learn how long to cook a 2lb stuffed pork roast for tender juicy results every time.
Choosing the Right Size Roast
Pork roasts are available anywhere from 1-5 pounds or more. For a stuffed roast that will feed about 4-6 people, aim for one around 2 pounds. This provides enough heft for ample stuffing but isn’t so large that it requires extra long cook times.
Boneless pork loin roasts are ideal for stuffing Look for a evenly shaped, compact roast without too much tapered ends This helps the stuffing stay neatly tucked inside.
Picking a Flavorful Stuffing
When it comes to the stuffing, creativity is key. Just about any flavor combination that appeals to you will work well. Consider ingredients like:
- Sautéed onions, celery, herbs
- Dried fruits like apples, apricots, cranberries
- Fresh spinach, kale or other greens
- Cheese, bacon, sausage, mushrooms
- Nuts like pecans or pine nuts
- Spices like sage, thyme, rosemary
Mix and match to suit your tastes. Just avoid extremely wet stuffings, as excess moisture can hinder cooking and food safety.
Trussing the Roast for Even Cooking
Once you’ve prepared the savory stuffing, carefully pack it into the pork roast. To keep it neatly contained, tie the roast at 1-2 inch intervals with kitchen twine. This trussing holds the shape, helps the roast cook evenly and prevents the stuffing from falling out.
Make sure the twine is tightened snugly but not so tight that it squeezes out the stuffing. Trim any excess twine once trussed.
Determining Doneness
Since the pork and stuffing both need thorough cooking, doneness is critical. Pork should reach a minimum internal temp of 145°F. Stuffing packed in the roast needs to reach 165°F.
Insert an instant read thermometer into the center of the roast, avoiding bones, to monitor temperatures. Cook until BOTH the pork and stuffing portions register the proper internal temperature.
Roasting in the Oven
Roasting in the oven is a foolproof way to cook a stuffed pork roast. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the trussed roast in a roasting pan or baking dish.
Cook for approximately 25-30 minutes per pound, until the internal temperature hits 145°F in the pork and 165°F in the stuffing. For a 2lb roast, this usually takes 50-60 minutes.
Let the roast rest about 10 minutes before removing the twine and carving. The stuffing and meat will both stay juicy and delicious.
Slow Cooker Method
While quick-cooking pork does best with high heat, you can make a stuffed roast work in the slow cooker.
Sear the trussed roast in a skillet first to brown it. Then place in a slow cooker with 1/2 cup broth or water. Cook on LOW for 7-8 hours until tender.
Use a meat thermometer to verify safe internal temperatures before serving.
Grilling Tips
Grilling over indirect heat can infuse a stuffed pork roast with smoky barbecue flavor. Maintain a cooler temperature zone to avoid burning.
Cook with the lid closed as much as possible, turning occasionally, until the center hits 145°F. If browning too quickly, loosely tent foil over the top.
The stuffing provides insulation to keep the pork moist and delicious. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Pairing with Sides
A stuffed pork roast deserves hearty side dishes like:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Herb roasted carrots and parsnips
- Sauteed Brussels sprouts with bacon
- Cranberry compote
- Dinner rolls or biscuits
Don’t forget a vibrant green salad to balance the meal. And consider offering gravy made from the flavorful roast pan drippings.
Using Leftovers
Stuffed pork roast leftovers make amazing sandwiches layered with extra stuffing and cheese. You can also dice up leftovers to top pizzas, fold into omelets or add to pasta.
Slice into portions and reheat gently in the microwave or oven to serve again. Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
With the right size roast, delicious stuffing, and accurate cook times, you can master how long to cook a 2lb stuffed pork roast. Monitor with a meat thermometer for the best results. In around 1 hour or less, an incredible stuffed roast can be the centerpiece of a memorable meal.
Or you can make your own stuffing!
I have been cooking with Ricky and writing and recording about his recipes for a while now. I have been thinking about doing a “He Said…She Said” section where I give another version of a recipe every once in a while. This recipe has really brought me closer to doing that. I can’t wait to try an apple and herb stuffing.
Those of you who have read our other posts may know that we share Ricky’s recipes because they are as basic and easy to make as they get. They use everyday, cheap, and simple ingredients. And they taste great. No fancy equipment, spices, ingredients; just everyday meals made the easy way. People who think making dinner is too much work will see that it doesn’t have to be. These simple homecooked dinners can save you a fortune if you have been ordering out. And more than likely they will have a lot more nutritional value for the buck.
My recipes, on the other hand, could be considered a hassle. When I think about changing this stuffing, I think of all sorts of unique ingredients, such as whole grain breadcrumbs I make myself. And I’m pondering what herbs I will use, fresh or dried. Nonetheless, I think I can come up with an apple herb stuffing concoction that may be a winner. If it is, I might share it with those of you who have time and want to make it. For now, let’s just get on with making this easy dinner recipe.
How to make a Stuffed Pork Loin roast
It’s no coincidence that this stuffed pork roast recipe follows our PANKO PORK recipe. This is the other side of the whole pork loin we bought on sale. That’s a great way to stretch your food dollar. When something is on sale, buy it. If the price is really good, buy enough for two meals. These two dinner recipes of Ricky’s are a great way to use a whole pork loin. If you like pork, give these a try.
Stuffed Pork Loin Experiment – Cooked 3 Ways!
FAQ
How long does it take to cook a 2 pound pork roast and at what temperature?
Is it better to cook a pork loin at 350 or 400?
How long does a 2lb joint of pork take to cook?
How long to cook a 2 pound pork shoulder at 350?