Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin Recipe: A Flavorful Family Favorite

If you’re looking for a meal that will impress your entire family, this bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is the answer! Packed with flavor, tender pork, and a savory glaze, it’s perfect for special occasions or a delicious family dinner. The best part? It’s easy to make, and you’ll want to prepare it again and again.

Ingredients:

For this flavorful bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 pork tenderloins
10–12 slices of bacon
1/4 cup of Dijon mustard
1/4 cup of brown sugar
2 tablespoons of honey
2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with aluminum foil for easy cleanup later, and set it aside. The pork tenderloin will be the star of this dish, with a crispy bacon coating that keeps the meat moist and full of flavor.

2. Season the Pork

Before wrapping, season your pork tenderloins generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This step helps the pork soak up all those wonderful flavors as it cooks.

3. Wrap in Bacon

Take your bacon slices and carefully wrap them around each pork tenderloin. Overlap each slice slightly, making sure the bacon is secure and covers the tenderloin completely. The bacon not only adds flavor but helps to retain the pork’s juiciness during roasting.

4. Create the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar. This glaze will add a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, complementing the salty bacon. Brush a generous amount of this glaze over the bacon-wrapped tenderloins.

5. Roast the Pork

Place the pork tenderloins on the prepared baking tray and put them into the preheated oven. Roast for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Halfway through cooking, brush more glaze over the bacon for extra flavor.

6. Broil for Crispiness

Once the pork reaches the correct temperature, switch your oven to broil for an additional 2–3 minutes. This will help crisp up the bacon, giving it that irresistible texture. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

7. Rest and Serve

After removing the pork tenderloins from the oven, allow them to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful. Slice the pork into medallions and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success:

Bacon Choice: Thinner bacon works better for wrapping the pork, as it crisps up faster and more evenly.
Glazing: For a thicker, stickier glaze, you can double the amount of brown sugar and honey in the recipe.
Rest Time: Always allow your meat to rest before slicing to keep it juicy and flavorful.

Perfect Pairings:

To round out this bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, consider these complementary side dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with this rich dish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy taste of roasted Brussels sprouts balances the savory sweetness of the pork and bacon.
Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with a zesty dressing adds freshness to the plate and cuts through the richness of the bacon.

Why This Recipe Works:

The combination of tender pork, crispy bacon, and a sticky-sweet glaze makes this dish irresistible. The bacon not only imparts flavor but also locks in moisture, ensuring the pork stays juicy. The glaze provides a wonderful contrast between sweet, salty, and tangy, elevating the dish from a simple roast to a special occasion-worthy meal.

Cooking Tips & Tricks:

Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your pork is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends pork be cooked to 145°F (63°C), which guarantees it’s safe to eat while remaining juicy.
Broiling for Extra Crisp: If you find the bacon isn’t crispy enough after roasting, broiling it for a few minutes can add the perfect amount of crunch. Just be careful not to overdo it, as bacon can burn quickly.
Double the Recipe for Leftovers: This dish is a family favorite, and if you want to ensure leftovers, consider doubling the recipe. Leftover pork tenderloin makes for a fantastic sandwich filling or can be sliced thin for a quick lunch.

Storing Leftovers:

If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, store the pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat or warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. For best results, wrap the slices in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out during reheating.

Customizing the Recipe:

Want to make this dish your own? Here are some variations to consider:

Add Herbs: Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme over the pork before wrapping it in bacon for an herbal twist.
Spicy Glaze: If you like a bit of heat, add a tablespoon of sriracha or hot sauce to the glaze mixture. It will give your tenderloin a spicy kick that complements the sweet glaze beautifully.
Maple Bacon: Use maple-flavored bacon for an extra layer of sweetness in every bite. You can also drizzle a little maple syrup over the finished dish for even more flavor.

Conclusion:

This bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is sure to become a hit with your family, just as it has with mine. The combination of savory bacon, juicy pork, and a delectable glaze creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or just want to switch up your weeknight routine, this recipe will not disappoint.