Grilled Pork Loin (With Easy Rub!)

My grilled pork loin comes off the grill with a savory, garlicky crust and a juicy center every time. It uses just 7 ingredients and an easy trick on the grill to get the most tender pork you’ve ever eaten!

How to Get Extra Tender Pork Loin on the Grill

Pork loin is one of the most underrated cuts of meat. I often see people skip over it for a more expensive cut because they think it’ll taste better, but I’ve tested my grilled pork loin constantly so you can get that super tender pork while still staying in budget.

All that’s needed is 7 ingredients and a grill. The spices give an incredible flavor while the grill does all the work using the hot and cool side to get perfectly cooked pork every time.

My husband Ben loves when I grab it from the store because it’s an excuse for him to pull the grill out in the summer. He pretends he’s working hard outside when he’s just sitting there relaxing while the pork loin is grilling.

My grilled pork loin uses one of the easiest dry rubs too. The salt draws all that moisture to the surface, then infuses it back into the meat. Once pork loin is on the grill, it forms a beautiful crust that adds texture and helps lock in all of the moisture. Honestly, the results speak for themselves.

If you love pork, once you learn how to grill pork chops, you can’t go back, especially with an easy marinade on them. And pork loin in the air fryer gives a similar taste that can be cooked indoors.

Pork Loin Grilling Ingredients

• Pork loin – This lean, wide cut turns out juicy and moist when cooked on the grill! I use about 2 ¼ pounds of meat for this grilled pork loin recipe.
• Salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the pork while also helping the meat retain its moisture.
• Garlic powder – Adds savory notes to each bite. I prefer powdered garlic since it sticks better to the surface and won’t burn on the grill like fresh garlic does.
• Onion powder – Brings depth and earthiness without overpowering the taste of the meat.
• Paprika – Gives the meat a splash of color while also adding a mild sweetness. I use smoked paprika if I want a deeper, smokier taste!
• Black pepper – For a subtle, peppery warmth that adds just the right amount of bite.
• Olive oil – Helps the seasoning stick while also promoting browning on the grill.

How to Grill Pork Loin 

STEP ONE: Coat the pork loin with olive oil and the seasoning blend, gently pressing it into the surface.

STEP TWO: Refrigerate the seasoned pork for at least 30 minutes, then bring it to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.

STEP THREE: Set up a two-zone grill with one hot side (around 350-400F) and one cool side (completely off or no coals on that side). Most of the cooking will be done on the cool side, but the hot side can be used for searing and making grill marks.

STEP FOUR: Place the pork loin on the cool side of the grill, away from direct heat. Cover and cook it until the thickest part of the meat reaches 140 degrees F. 

STEP FIVE: Transfer the pork to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. The temperature will continue to rise to 145 degrees F during this time.

STEP SIX: Slice the grilled pork loin against the grain, then serve and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

• Use a paper towel to remove excess moisture from the meat before seasoning it. This ensures even browning and helps the spices stick.
• I leave the meat uncovered as it rests in the refrigerator. This helps dry out the surface so the crust will form when it hits the grill. I use this method before cooking my BBQ chicken wings too.
• Always use an instant-read meat thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature. It’s easy to use and takes out all of the guessing.
• Leave the grill closed while the meat cooks. The temperature drops every time it’s opened, which makes the cooking time longer.  

Variations

• If pork loin is unavailable, make this recipe with pork tenderloin instead. Because it’s a smaller, leaner cut, it will cook a lot faster, so I start checking it after 20 minutes.
• To kick up the heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle some homemade hot honey sauce on top for a sweet and spicy taste.
• For a full sweeter twist, I add brown sugar to the rub! It helps the crust caramelize and deepens the overall taste of the meat. My brown sugar chops recipe uses the same idea.
• Marinate it first. If I have an extra hour to let the pork marinate, I’ll let it sit in my pork chop marinade recipe before adding the rub. It works wonderful on grilled pork loin.
• Add some BBQ flavor. Brush my 3 ingredient BBQ sauce on it the last few minutes when searing on the hot side of the grill. The BBQ caramelizes onto the crust and turns to a sticky glaze.

What to Serve

I love serving this grilled pork recipe with hearty side dishes like baked beans, Cajun corn on the cob, or an air fryer baked potato. It also goes really well with creamy mashed potatoes or steamed white rice and side of cinnamon applesauce. When I’m craving a lighter plate that’s still satisfying, I pair my protein with a serving of garlic green beans or a fresh chopped salad.

Grilled Pork Loin FAQs 

Is there a difference between pork loin and pork tenderloin?

Yes! Pork loin is a large cut that comes from the upper back area, which is sold whole or cut into chops. The tenderloin also comes from the loin, and it’s a smaller, thinner strip that is quite lean. 

How do I avoid drying out the pork loin on the grill?

The best way to avoid dry pork is to cook it over indirect heat and remove it from the grill as soon as it hits an internal temperature of 140 degrees F. It will finish cooking as it rests.

How should I store leftover grilled pork loin?

I like to wrap my leftover pork loin tightly in foil or transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will last for up to 4 days.

How do I reheat leftovers?

My favorite way to reheat grilled pork loin is in the oven at 300 degrees F. Place the meat in a baking dish with a splash of water or broth, then cover and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through.

More Easy Grilled Recipes

• Grilled hot dogs
• Crispy grilled chicken thighs
• Grilled chicken legs
• Grilled sirloin
• Grilled wings
• London broil on the grill