Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is a dish that perfectly marries tender, juicy pork with the savory, salty goodness of bacon. It’s an extraordinary way to take a humble cut of meat and elevate it into something truly special. The sweet and spicy glaze adds a tangy kick, while the bacon crisps to perfection, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing. It’s hard to resist the wafting aroma as it bakes, and even harder to wait for that first juicy bite!

Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

I first stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a chilly autumn evening when I craved something hearty yet uncomplicated. The idea of wrapping tender pork in smoky bacon seemed perfect for a warm family meal. Little did I know that it would become a beloved family staple, a dish everyone requests at gatherings and holidays. So, whether you’re prepping for a weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is sure to impress!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple & Quick: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
  • Irresistible Flavor: The combination of honey, mustard, and spices create a robust flavor that lingers.
  • Eye-Catching Appeal: Who can resist a dish that is both impressive and unpretentious?
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for everyday meals, special gatherings, or even Sunday dinner.
  • Pork Perfection: Juicy pork tenderloin paired with crispy bacon is a match made in culinary heaven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1¼ lb pork tenderloin: A lean, tender cut that stays juicy during cooking. Look for one with a nice pink hue.
  • 2 tablespoons honey: This adds natural sweetness and helps the glaze stick to the meat.
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar: Brings a deeper sweetness, balancing the savory elements; coconut sugar is a suitable substitute for a similar flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb adds aromatic earthiness; fresh thyme can also be used if you prefer.
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder: Provides a mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish; fresh onions can be sautéed and used instead.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall savoriness; fresh minced garlic works well too!
  • ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors; adjust to your taste.
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a bit of heat; feel free to use white pepper for a milder taste.
  • 1½ tablespoons spicy brown mustard: Gives a nice zing and complements the sweetness of the glaze; yellow mustard can work in a pinch.

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating the oven ensures perfectly cooked pork with crispy bacon.
  2. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and 1½ tablespoons of spicy brown mustard together until smooth. This sweet and spicy mixture will coat the pork and enhance the flavors beautifully.
  3. Glaze the Pork: Using a spoon or a brush, apply half of the delicious glaze over the pork tenderloin, making sure it’s well-coated for the tastiest outcome.
  4. Wrap in Bacon: Lay the bacon slices out on a cutting board, overlapping slightly. Place the glazed pork tenderloin on top and carefully roll it in the bacon, wrapping it snugly while placing the seam side down. Slather the remaining glaze all over the bacon-wrapped pork, ensuring everything is covered.
  5. Bake: Arrange the wrapped tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with foil for easier cleanup. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until the bacon turns golden and crispy, and the internal temperature of pork reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. For extra-crispy bacon, turn on the broiler low for the final 2 minutes.
  6. Let It Rest: Once it’s done cooking, let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moister and more flavorful dish.

Storing & Reheating

To store your Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container in the fridge where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just wrap it tightly in foil or freezer bags. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes, until warmed through. Just remember, the bacon may lose some of its crunch after refrigeration, but a quick toast in the oven will help refresh it!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

  • Be sure to let the pork tenderloin rest outside the fridge for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
  • Using a meat thermometer is a smart move; it’ll help you ensure the pork is perfectly cooked without overdoing it.
  • If your bacon is particularly thick, you might want to increase the cooking time slightly to allow it to crisp up nicely.
  • Serve this dish with roasted vegetables or a light salad to create a well-rounded meal.
  • Consider experimenting with different mustards for unique flavor profiles, like honey mustard or Dijon!

Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is not just a meal; it’s a joyous centerpiece for your dining table. The sweet glaze and crispy bacon offer a sensory experience that will delight anyone who gets to enjoy it. Feel free to play around; maybe add a splash of your favorite vinegar or toss in a sprinkle of your go-to spice mix.

Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Absolutely! While pork tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness, you can use pork loin or pork chops. Just remember that cooking times will vary based on the thickness of the meat, so adjust accordingly.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pork, wrap it in bacon, and coat it with the glaze a few hours before cooking. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Is this recipe good for meal prepping?

Definitely! Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping. Just slice it into portions and reheat whenever you’re ready to eat!

What sides pair well with this dish?

This savory dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also try serving it with a side of couscous or rice for a complete meal.
Print

⭐ If you make my Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin recipe, Awesome! I would love to hear from you. Please give it a star rating and review below! 👇

clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Bacon-Wrapped-Pork-Tenderloin-Recipe

Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

Recipe Author: Sara

This Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin features juicy pork enveloped in crispy bacon, seasoned with honey and spices. It’s a quick way to create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Prep Time 10 minutes
  • Cook Time 35 minutes
  • Yield 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1¼ lb pork tenderloin
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1½ tablespoons spicy brown mustard


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. In a small bowl, combine honey, light brown sugar, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and spicy brown mustard.
  3. Slather half of the glaze over the pork tenderloin using a spoon or a brush.
  4. On a cutting board, overlap the bacon strips. Roll the pork tenderloin in the bacon, ensuring the seam is down, then apply the remaining glaze over the bacon.
  5. Bake for 22-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees. For extra-crispy bacon, switch the broiler on low for the final 2 minutes. Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, marinate the pork tenderloin in the glaze for a few hours before wrapping it in bacon.
You can substitute maple syrup for honey if you prefer a different sweetness.
Choose thick-cut bacon for a meatier texture.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Nutritional information is an estimate. The nutritional values for your final dish may vary based on measuring differences and products used.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star