There’s something truly show-stopping about a Crown Roast of Pork. It’s elegant, dramatic, and festive—the kind of dish that almost feels too extravagant for your everyday kitchen. But here’s the good news: it’s actually easier to make than you might think. With just a few simple steps (and some pro tips from me), you can turn this classic centerpiece into the star of your next gathering. Whether it’s a special holiday or an intimate dinner party, this recipe will have everyone at the table gasping in delight.
If you’re searching for a dish that’s both gorgeous and incredibly flavorful, this Crown Roast of Pork is ready to steal the show!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Show-Stopping Presentation: It’s a visual masterpiece that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
- Rich, Juicy Flavor: The herb and garlic rub creates a juicy, flavorful roast with little effort.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Feeds a crowd, and the ‘wow’ factor is built right in—no fancy carving skills required.
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- Crown Roast of Pork: Ask your butcher to prep the rack so it’s tied into the classic crown shape. Aim for about two ribs per person.
- Fresh Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, and sage bring out the roast’s natural flavor. Dried herbs work in a pinch, but fresh really makes a difference here.
- Garlic: A kitchen staple—grab about six cloves for big, bold flavor.
- Olive Oil: Helps the herb mixture coat the pork and roast beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Don’t skimp here; seasoning is key to waking up the flavors of the meat.
- Optional Garnish: Add a touch of whimsy with fresh cranberries, rosemary sprigs, or edible flowers for a seasonal vibe.
Pro Tips
- Look for a pork rack with the bones “frenched”—meaning the meat is trimmed from the ends of the bones—so it’s easy to handle and looks polished.
- Make this ahead: You can prep your rub and coat the meat up to 24 hours in advance, letting the flavors really sink in.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- If your crown roast isn’t already tied, use butcher’s twine to secure it in a circle, bone-side out. Place it in the prepared roasting pan.
- In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, chopped sage, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix into a paste.
- Rub the herb-garlic mixture generously all over the roast, including the top and sides, getting into all the crevices.
- Tent the tips of the exposed bones with foil to prevent burning during roasting.
- Roast the pork in the preheated oven for about 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
- Remove the foil from the bones during the last 15 minutes of cooking to give them a little color.
- Once done, allow the roast to rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This helps retain all those delicious juices!
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Carving Made Easy: Simply cut down between the bones for perfectly portioned chops.
- Thermometer Tips: Investing in a meat thermometer is well worth it to avoid overcooking.
- Juice Saver: Collect the drippings and make a quick pan sauce or gravy to drizzle over the finished roast.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Glaze It Up: Brush with a maple-mustard glaze or balsamic reduction during the last 30 minutes for extra flavor.
- Side Pairings: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a tangy cranberry sauce for the ultimate festive spread.
- Stuffing Option: Fill the center of the crown with your favorite stuffing for an added wow factor (just remember to cook it to a safe temp).
FAQs
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Prep the herb rub and coat the pork the day before. Just roast it fresh on the day you plan to serve.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
- Can I freeze it?
- Yes! Freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven for best results.
Printable Recipe
Crown Roast of Pork
Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 1 Crown Roast of Pork (10-12 ribs)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, leaves only
- 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place seasoned pork in a prepared roasting pan, rub with herb mixture.
- Tent bone tips with foil; roast 2 1/2 to 3 hours (140°F internal temp).
- Rest for 20 minutes, carve, and serve.
There you have it, your centerpiece stunner! If you try this recipe, I’d love to see your creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment below or tag me on social media using #TheKitchensAid. Let’s turn your kitchen into a place where every meal feels like a celebration!
