the Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin is a true Southern classic! It’s sweet, savory, and incredibly tender thanks to the unique use of Coca-Cola as a marinade and braising liquid. Think slow-roasted pork with deep caramel notes, a hint of spice, and a sticky, spoon-worthy glaze.
🐖 Old South Coca-Cola Pork Loin
🍽️ Serves: 6–8
⏱️ Time:
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Marinate: 2–8 hours (optional but ideal)
- Cook: 2–2.5 hours
🧾 Ingredients:
- 3–4 lb pork loin (boneless)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 can (12 oz) Coca-Cola (NOT diet)
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Optional: pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for heat
🔪 Instructions:
1. Season & Marinate
- Pat the pork loin dry.
- Mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Rub it all over the pork.
- Optional: Place the pork in a large bag or dish and pour in half the Coca-Cola. Marinate in the fridge for 2–8 hours.
2. Make the Sauce
- In a bowl, combine:
- Remaining Coca-Cola
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Worcestershire sauce
- Apple cider vinegar
- (Optional) dash of hot sauce or cayenne
- Mix until smooth — this is your Southern-style glaze.
3. Roast the Pork
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Place pork loin in a roasting pan or Dutch oven. Pour sauce over the top.
- Cover tightly with foil or a lid and roast for 2 hours, basting occasionally.
4. Glaze & Finish
- Uncover and raise oven temp to 375°F (190°C).
- Spoon sauce over the pork, then roast uncovered for another 20–30 minutes until caramelized and internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
🍴 Serve With:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or Southern mac & cheese
- Collard greens or roasted green beans
- Buttermilk biscuits or cornbread
- Extra sauce on the side!
🧨 Pro Tips:
- Make extra sauce in a saucepan if you like it really saucy.
- Want a slow cooker version? Ask — it’s even easier.