Believe it or not, pork loin is the perfect cut of pork for smoking. Smoking pork allows it to cook slowly, which creates a tender, juicy bite.
However, you can’t smoke pork loin at any temperature. The pork loin will be overcooked if the smoker’s temperature is too high.
In contrast, if the smoker’s temperature is too low, the pork loin won’t cook.
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Pork Loin vs. Pork Tenderloin
First, let’s address one critical thing, pork tenderloin, and pork loin is not the same cut of pork.
While both cuts of pork are relatively lean, there are several differences between the cuts. So, you can use pork loin in place of pork tenderloin.
Location
Both pork tenderloin and pork long are fabricated from the back of the animal. However, they come from different positions on the pig’s back.
The loin is carved from the middle of the pig’s back. In contrast, the tenderloin is located near the animal’s backbone.
Size
Pork loin is bigger than pork tenderloin. For example, the average loin weighs between 5 and 10 pounds. In contrast, the average tenderloin weighs 1/2-1 1/2 pounds.
Cooking Time
Since pork tenderloin is much larger, it will take longer to cook. Pork tenderloin will take 1 hour to cook. In contrast, pork loin takes about 3 hours to cook, depending on its size.
Texture
Out of all the cuts of pork, the tenderloin is the most tender cut. Therefore, it is more tender than pork loin. In terms of texture, pork tenderloin is similar to beef tenderloin.
In contrast, pork loin is much tougher than tenderloin. Pork loin has a texture similar to sirloin.
Additionally, pork tenderloin has a delicate flavor. So, it may need more spices or a BBQ rub to add flavor.
What Are the Best Wood Chips for Smoking Pork Loin?
You cannot smoke pork loin with any wood chips. Pork has a delicate flavor, so the wrong wood chips can easily overpower its flavor.
For example, mesquite wood is popular for smoking meats such as brisket. However, mesquite wood will overpower the flavor of the pork loin.
Oak, applewood, cherry wood, hickory, and pecan woods are the best woods for smoking pork loin. These woods will give the pork loin a beautiful flavor without overpowering the pork’s flavor.
Can You Overcook Pork at 225?
Yes, you can overcook pork at 225°F. Just because you are cooking pork loin low and slow does not mean you cannot overcook pork loin.
If you overcook the pork loin, it will be dry, tough, and extremely chewy. Additionally, the pork loin will fall apart if you try cutting it.
Therefore, it’s best to remove the pork loin from the smoker at a temperature of 145°F.
Additionally, let the pork loin rest when you remove it from the smoker. Letting the pork loin rest will ensure it stays moist and juicy.
How Do I Keep Pork Loin Moist When Smoking?
Misting the pork loin with apple cider or apple juice will help it stay moist. It also helps the smoke penetrate the meat better. Mist your pork loin in 30–45-minute intervals.
How Long to Smoke a Pork Loin at 225
How long it takes to smoke pork loin at 225°F depends on how many pounds the meat weighs. Generally, pork loin takes about 1 1/2 hours to smoke pork loin at 225°F.
However, the cooking time is just a general guideline. It’s best to monitor the pork loin’s internal temperature.
Pork is cooked when it has an internal temperature of 145°F. You can remove the pork when it reaches a temperature between 135°F-145°F.
The pork’s temperature continues to rise as its rests. However, check the pork tenderloin’s temperature again to confirm it is at 145°F before you serve it.
How Long to Smoke a 2-Pound Pork Loin at 225
Pork loin takes about 90 minutes to cook per pound. So, a 2-pound pork loin takes 2-2 1/2 hours to smoke at 225°F.
However, check the pork loin’s temperature after 2 hours. The pork loin can easily dry out, so check it after 2 hours.
How to Smoke a 3-Pound Pork Loin at 225
With your smoker set to 225, the pork will cook for 1 1/2 pounds. A 3-pound pork loin will take about 2 1/2-3 hours. However, check the pork loin’s internal temperature after 1 1/2 hours.
How Long To A 4 Pound Pork Loin At 225
The bigger the pork loin, the longer it will take to cook. A 4-pound pork loin will take 3-3 1/2 to smoke.
How Long to Smoke a 5-Pound Pork Loin Roast at 225
Using the equation of 90 minutes per pound, it will take about 4 1/2-5 hours to cook a 5-pound pork loin. However, check the pork loin’s temperature after 2 hours.
How Long to Smoke a 6 Pound Pork Loin at 225
It takes about 5-6 hours to cook a 6-pound pork loin at 225°F. Check the pork loin’s temperature after 2 1/2 to 3 hours. After you’ve checked the temperature, check the temperature every 30 minutes to an hour.
How Long to Smoke a 8 Pound Pork Loin
An 8-pound pork loin may take up to 4-5 hours to cook. Since this is a larger cut of pork, it will take longer to cook. However, check the pork loin’s temperature after 3-4 hours. This will prevent it from overcooking.
How Long to Smoke a 10 Pound Pork Loin at 225
A 10-pound pork loin will take about 5 1/2-6 hours to cook. However, check the pork’s temperature after 2 hours.
Final Thoughts
Pork loin is a delicately flavored meat. So, smoking enhances its flavor.
However, you must smoke your pork loin at 225 for 3-4 hours, depending on its size. It may take longer to smoke a larger pork loin.
It may take less time to smoke a smaller pork loin. So, keep your thermometer handy, and you will have the perfect smoked pork loin.
I have been smoking and grilling meat from an early age and enjoy sharing my knowledge and expertise through the hundreds of articles I have written about BBQ. I hope to make everyone’s BBQ journey that little bit easier.