If you’re looking for a mouthwatering, juicy, and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress, bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a perfect choice. This recipe combines the lean tenderness of pork with the smoky, crispy goodness of bacon, creating a delightful balance that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into how you can easily cook this savory dish at home.
What You’ll Need
– 1 pound pork tenderloin, trimmed
– 8 to 10 strips of thin-cut bacon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary (dried won’t do here)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– Optional: Dijon mustard, thyme, or honey for extra flavor
Preparing Your Pork Tenderloin
Start by trimming any silver skin or excess fat from your pork tenderloin to ensure even cooking. If the tenderloin has a thinner end, tuck it under to create a more uniform thickness. This helps the meat cook evenly and makes wrapping easier.
Flavoring the Meat
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork tenderloin, coating it thoroughly. For a flavor twist, you can also mix Dijon mustard with garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper and rub it on the pork before wrapping.
Wrapping with Bacon
Lay your bacon strips side by side on a clean surface, slightly overlapping them to form a “bacon blanket” wide enough to cover the tenderloin. Place the seasoned pork at one end of the bacon and roll it tightly, wrapping the bacon around the pork. If needed, secure the bacon with toothpicks to keep it in place while cooking.
Cooking Your Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
Oven Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the bacon-wrapped tenderloin seam side down on an oven-safe rack set inside a foil-lined baking sheet. Brushing the rack with a little olive oil prevents sticking.
- Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness precisely.
- Let the pork rest for 5 to 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
Sear and Roast Method
For an extra crispy bacon exterior and juicy interior, try searing before roasting:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the bacon-wrapped tenderloin seam side down and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until the bacon is browned and crisp.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest before slicing as above.
Optional Glaze
For a sweet and smoky glaze, brush the tenderloin with a mixture of honey, barbecue sauce, or even raspberry preserves combined with a touch of liquid smoke during the last 8-10 minutes of roasting. This adds a sticky, flavorful finish that complements the smoky bacon beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the rested pork tenderloin into medallions and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve alongside roasted baby potatoes, garlic green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
– Use thin-cut bacon for easier wrapping and even cooking. Thick-cut bacon may need longer cooking times and can overpower the pork.
– Don’t overcook the pork; 145°F (63°C) is the ideal internal temperature for juicy, tender meat.
– Resting the meat after cooking is crucial to keep it juicy.
– If you want extra crispiness, broil the tenderloin for a few minutes after roasting, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a simple yet impressive dish that combines savory flavors with juicy tenderness. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the crispy bacon, the aromatic herbs, and the succulent pork all in one bite!