Italian Stuffed Pork Loin with Spinach and Cheese
Juicy, savory, and packed with rich flavor this Italian Stuffed Pork Loin with Spinach and Cheese is a show-stopping dish perfect for special dinners and gatherings! Tender pork loin is filled with a delicious blend of sautéed spinach, melty cheese, and Italian-inspired seasonings, then roasted to perfection for a beautifully golden finish.
Ingredients
- For the Pork Loin:
- 2–3 lb pork loin, butterflied
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- For the Stuffing:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional for Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Pork Loin: Butterfly the pork loin by slicing it lengthwise, leaving about ½ inch uncut on one side, then open it like a book. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound to an even thickness (~½ inch). Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a medium bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper (if using), and salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff the Pork Loin: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the pork loin, leaving a small border along the edges.
- Roll and Tie: Carefully roll the pork loin tightly from one end to the other. Use kitchen twine to secure the roll at 1–2 inch intervals.
- Sear the Pork Loin: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan over medium-high heat. Sear the pork loin on all sides until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Roast the Pork Loin: Transfer the skillet or roasting pan to the preheated oven. Roast for 50–65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest the Pork Loin: Remove from oven and cover loosely with foil. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice and Serve: Remove twine and slice into 1-inch thick rounds to reveal the spiral of spinach and cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.