A crown pork roast, also known as a pork crown roast, is an elegant cut of meat that makes for a delicious main course, especially for special occasions like holidays. When cooking a crown pork roast, knowing the proper internal temperature to cook it to is key for ensuring it turns out juicy and flavorful.
What is a Crown Pork Roast?
A crown pork roast is made from the rib section of a pig. It consists of a row of pork rib chops that have been tied together into a circle, with the rib bones sticking up to create a “crown” shape. This regal presentation is part of what makes it a great choice for festive meals.
The crown roast encircles a hollow center, which can be stuffed with a bread or wild rice dressing. The stuffing cooks inside the roast, soaking up all the pork juices and becoming infused with flavor. Sliced apples or fennel are also excellent options for stuffing a crown pork roast.
When shopping for a crown roast, look for one with an even shape and a nice layer of fat across the top. The fat will baste the meat while it roasts, keeping it moist. Plan on about 3/4 pound of meat per person if the crown roast is the main course. An 8-rib roast generally serves 6 people.
Seasoning and Preparing a Crown Pork Roast
Crown roasts are easy to prepare, but proper seasoning is important. Start by thoroughly patting the meat dry with paper towels. Then rub the entire roast all over with olive oil or melted butter. This helps the seasoning adhere to the meat.
Next, generously season the roast all over with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs you desire. Popular options include garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano. You can also coat it with crushed garlic and Dijon mustard for bold flavor.
Place the seasoned crown roast bone-side down in a roasting pan fitted with a rack. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, taking care not to hit the bone. The thermometer will allow you to monitor the internal temperature and determine when the roast is done.
Chopped vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery can be scattered around the roast in the pan. As the pork cooks, the vegetables will soak up the flavorful juices. Potatoes and sweet potatoes also pair well with pork.
Roasting and Basting
Roast the crown pork roast in a 300°F oven for approximately 20 minutes per pound. So for a 6-pound roast, roast for about 2 hours. Basting the meat while it cooks will keep it from drying out.
To baste, tip or spoon the hot pan juices over the roast every 30 minutes. If the pan starts to look dry, add a half cup of water, chicken or beef broth, or wine to the bottom. The liquid will evaporate as the pork cooks, creating steam that keeps the meat moist.
If the pork browns too quickly, tent it loosely with foil. But remove the foil during the last 30 minutes so the exterior can crisp back up.
The roast is done when the meat thermometer reads 145°F. This temperature ensures the pork reaches the safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F, as recommended by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Once it reaches 145°F, transfer the roast to a cutting board and loosely tent it with foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute through the meat for moist, tender pork.
Carving and Serving
Carve the crown roast by slicing between each rib bone to free the chops. Arrange them on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon some of the pan veggies alongside the pork chops.
For an elegant presentation, you can leave the pork chops attached in their crown shape. Simply slice through the meat between the bones down to the stuffing. Serve each person a few chops’ worth along with stuffing and veggies.
A crown pork roast makes a beautiful centerpiece for Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, or any special dinner. Pair it with creamy polenta, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the savory juices. Hearty winter vegetables like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and squash also complement the richness of the pork.
Leftover pork roast keeps well refrigerated for 3-4 days. The meat is also perfect for sandwiches, tacos, soups, or casseroles later in the week.
Key Takeaways
- A crown pork roast is an elegant cut made of pork chops tied into a circle with the rib bones sticking up.
- Generously season the roast with salt, pepper, herbs, and spices before roasting.
- Roast at 300°F for approximately 20 minutes per pound, basting periodically with pan juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to determine when the pork reaches the safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F.
- Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing between the bones to carve.
Cooking Chart for Crown Pork Roast
| Crown Roast Size | Approximate Total Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 4 pounds | 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours |
| 5 pounds | 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 hours |
| 6 pounds | 1 3/4 to 2 hours |
| 7 pounds | 2 to 2 1/4 hours |
| 8 pounds | 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 hours |
Tips for Perfect Crown Pork Roast
Follow these helpful tips for the best results when making a crown pork roast:
- Let the roast stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting.
- Thoroughly dry the meat before seasoning to help flavors adhere.
- Tie butcher’s string around the rack to hold the pork chops in place if needed.
- Scatter chopped vegetables around the roast to roast in the flavorful drippings.
- Use an oven-safe meat thermometer to track the internal temperature.
- Baste every 30 minutes to prevent the pork from drying out.
- Rest the roast for 10-15 minutes before slicing for juicy, tender meat.
Serving Suggestions
A crown pork roast makes a stunning centerpiece to build a special meal around. Consider serving it with:
- Rice pilaf or wild rice
- Mashed, roasted, or glazed sweet potatoes
- Roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts
- Green beans with garlic and almonds
- Warm rolls or biscuits
- Pasta in cream sauce or pesto
- Crisp green salad
- Apple, pear, or cranberry sauce
In Summary
A crown pork roast is a beautiful cut of meat perfect for holidays and special events. Cook it to an internal temperature of 145°F and let rest before slicing and serving. Pair it with plenty of classic side dishes for an impressive and delicious meal the whole family will love.