Get ready for a flavor explosion! This bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin recipe takes a simple classic and elevates it with a touch of honey, creating the perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Keep reading to discover how to make this irresistible dish that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Ingredients
If you are ready to make some bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, let's gather our superstar ingredients: 8 to 10 slices of streaky bacon—make sure they're long enough to wrap around your pork about one and a half times!, 1 lb (or 500g) of pork tenderloin, which should be at room temperature—we don't want it too cold, you know, like it's been snubbing you all day, plus salt and pepper to taste.
I think that these are the stars of our show, but there seems to be more!
Next up, you'll need 1 tbsp of olive oil, this is what we'll sear our pork in, to give it a nice golden color! Then comes 2 tbsp of honey—or maple syrup, though I find honey works better 'cause it's thicker! For some added flavor, you could even consider a glaze made with brown sugar, garlic, and butter.
Make sure your bacon is streaky; it's got the perfect fat content. And don't skimp on the salt and pepper—seasoning is key!
Preparation Instructions
Now, let's jump into the prep, where I'll guide you through turning these ingredients into something amazing! I'm going to walk you through a few simple steps to get this pork ready for its bacon blanket.
First, you'll wanna get all your bacon strips lined up, slightly overlapping – picture a cozy bacon raft! This is where presentation and flavor start to merge. The bacon not only imparts its smoky flavor but also helps to seal in juices during cooking. Let's get that silver skin trimmed from tenderloin too. Gotta prep it right!
Here's what it looks like:
- Lay bacon strips out.
- Trim pork tenderloin.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Tuck the thin end under to even out the thickness.
Don't skip tucking that thin end under – it's like giving the pork a little tummy tuck, so it cooks evenly, and no one likes jerky and dry pork! I think we're set here.
Cooking Instructions
Once your pork is prepped, I'm gonna get that skillet screaming hot with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil – we're talking high heat here! Sear the pork on all sides until it's nicely browned, like you're giving it a suntan. Don't worry about cooking it all the way through now; the oven's job is coming up next!
Remove the pork from the skillet and let it cool down enough so you can handle it. Place the pork on that bacon you laid out earlier, and wrap it up snug like it's going to sleep!
Use a knife to transfer the bacon-wrapped pork back into the skillet, seam-down. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of honey all over, brushing it to make sure, every inch is covered – that's the good stuff!
Into the oven it goes. Now, I'm gonna bake it for about 25 minutes at 200°C (390°F), or until the internal temp hits 65°C (149°F). Baste it with the pan juices at 20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
After your pork has rested and you've basted it one last time, it's showtime! I like to slice it about 1/2 inch thick, but hey, you do you. Serve it right away, while it's still juicy and warm. Don't forget to spoon those pan juices over the top—they're liquid gold!
Now, what to serve with this masterpiece? Well, I always consider the sides. Here are some of my go-to's:
- Roasted vegetables – like broccoli and carrots!
- Mashed potatoes – creamy and dreamy!
- A fresh salad – gotta get those greens, right?
- Crusty bread – for sopping up all those amazing juices!
Seriously, you can't go wrong. This bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a crowd-pleaser, no matter what you serve it with. Enjoy!
Important Information
Serving suggestions always lead me to planning, and I want to share some helpful hints! First, trim that silver skin—it's not the end of the world if you don't, but it's better when you do.
Next, don't overcook it! Aim for 149°F (65°C) internally for a faintly pink center – juicy is the goal! – or 155°F (68°C) if you're not a fan. Check the recipe notes for the perfect time. I like juicy, don't you?
Making ahead? Wrap it, chill it, then pop it in the oven – just remember to take it out of the fridge an hour before you bake it.
Turkey bacon can reduce the calories if you're watching your waistline. Now go make some magic!
Short Recipe Version
Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin Recipe (Concise)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Serving Size: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 pound)
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wrap pork tenderloin with bacon slices, securing with toothpicks if needed.
- Rub tenderloin with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place in a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 2g