Stuffed Rack of Pork with Cider Gravy

Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes

Indulge in the succulent flavors of this Stuffed Rack of Pork with Cider Gravy, perfect for special occasions or a comforting family dinner.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T19:57:44.314Z

This Stuffed Rack of Pork with Cider Gravy is a showstopper, ideal for impressing guests at your next gathering. The tender pork is complemented by a sweet and tangy cider gravy that elevates the entire dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Juicy pork filled with savory stuffing
  • Rich cider gravy adds depth of flavor
  • Perfect for family gatherings and celebrations

The Perfect Choice for Special Occasions

When it comes to hosting a special occasion, few dishes can impress your guests quite like a Stuffed Rack of Pork with Cider Gravy. This dish not only offers a stunning presentation but also delivers a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone raving. The combination of juicy pork and a delightful stuffing creates a heartwarming centerpiece that is as satisfying as it is delicious.

Whether it's a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or just a cozy family dinner, this recipe stands out for its ability to bring people together. The rich aroma of roasting pork fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons your loved ones to join in the feast.

Flavorful Stuffing Secrets

The stuffing for this pork rack is a highlight in itself. Combining breadcrumbs with diced apples, onions, and dried cranberries creates a balance of savory and sweet flavors. The thyme adds an aromatic touch that elevates the dish even further. Each bite of stuffing infuses the pork with flavor, ensuring that every slice is a delightful experience.

Feel free to customize the stuffing to suit your taste preferences. Adding nuts for crunch or different herbs can enhance the flavor profile, making this dish truly your own. The versatility of the stuffing allows you to experiment and create a unique twist that will surprise and delight your guests.

Tips for Perfectly Roasted Pork

Achieving perfectly roasted pork is all about managing temperature and timing. To ensure even cooking, allow the pork to come to room temperature before roasting. This step helps in achieving a juicy interior while the outside develops a beautiful golden crust. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the ideal internal temperature for pork is 145°F (63°C).

After roasting, let the pork rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. Your patience will be rewarded with succulent slices that are perfect for serving with the rich cider gravy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Stuffed Rack of Pork with Cider Gravy:

For the Stuffed Rack of Pork

  • 1 rack of pork (about 2 pounds)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup diced apples
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Cider Gravy

  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can start preparing the dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Stuffed Rack of Pork with Cider Gravy:

Prepare the Stuffing

In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs, diced apples, chopped onion, dried cranberries, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Stuff the Pork

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut a pocket in the pork rack and fill it with the stuffing mixture. Secure with kitchen twine if necessary.

Sear the Pork

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed pork on all sides until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.

Roast the Pork

Transfer the seared pork to a baking dish and roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Make the Cider Gravy

While the pork is roasting, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add apple cider and chicken broth, whisking until smooth.

Cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Once the pork is cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with cider gravy poured over the top.

Enjoy your delicious Stuffed Rack of Pork with Cider Gravy!

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the flavors of the Stuffed Rack of Pork, consider serving it with roasted seasonal vegetables. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes not only add color to your plate but also provide a delicious, earthy balance to the dish. A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also enhance the meal, cutting through the richness of the pork and gravy.

For a beverage pairing, a glass of dry cider or a medium-bodied white wine, such as Chardonnay, works beautifully. The acidity in these drinks harmonizes with the sweet and savory notes of the dish, making each bite and sip a delightful experience.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors of the pork and stuffing continue to meld, making for an even more delicious meal the next day. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cider to keep the meat moist.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed pork. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the pork with chicken or beef, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing and stuff the pork a day in advance. Just roast it on the day you plan to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Stuffed Rack of Pork with Cider Gravy

Indulge in the succulent flavors of this Stuffed Rack of Pork with Cider Gravy, perfect for special occasions or a comforting family dinner.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration60 minutes
Overall Time80 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Comfort Dinner Recipes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Stuffed Rack of Pork

  1. 1 rack of pork (about 2 pounds)
  2. 1 cup breadcrumbs
  3. 1/2 cup diced apples
  4. 1/2 cup chopped onion
  5. 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  6. 1 teaspoon thyme
  7. Salt and pepper to taste
  8. 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Cider Gravy

  1. 1 cup apple cider
  2. 1 cup chicken broth
  3. 2 tablespoons flour
  4. 2 tablespoons butter
  5. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs, diced apples, chopped onion, dried cranberries, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Step 02

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut a pocket in the pork rack and fill it with the stuffing mixture. Secure with kitchen twine if necessary.

Step 03

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed pork on all sides until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.

Step 04

Transfer the seared pork to a baking dish and roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 05

While the pork is roasting, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add apple cider and chicken broth, whisking until smooth. Cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 06

Once the pork is cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with cider gravy poured over the top.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 30g