Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

A Sweet and Savory Showstopper

Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is an irresistible combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. The juicy pork tenderloin is wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a rich brown sugar glaze, creating a mouthwatering caramelized crust. This dish is perfect for a special occasion, family dinner, or even meal prep, as it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Juicy: The bacon wrap locks in moisture, preventing the tenderloin from drying out.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation process.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The balance of sweet brown sugar, smoky bacon, and tender pork is unbeatable.
• Versatile Side Pairings: Pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

• 1 pork tenderloin (1 to 1.5 lbs)
• 8-10 slices of bacon (enough to wrap around the tenderloin)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Tenderloin

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Trim any silver skin or excess fat from the pork tenderloin. Pat it dry with paper towels.

2. Season the Tenderloin

• In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Rub the mixture evenly over the pork tenderloin, coating all sides.

3. Wrap with Bacon

• Lay the bacon slices on a cutting board, slightly overlapping.
• Place the seasoned tenderloin on top and carefully wrap the bacon around it, securing the ends underneath.
• If needed, use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place.

4. Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional)

• Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
• Sear the bacon-wrapped tenderloin for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned.

5. Bake to Perfection

• Transfer the skillet (or place the tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with foil) to the preheated oven.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for a slightly pink center.
• If desired, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to crisp up the bacon.

6. Rest and Serve

• Remove from the oven and let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
• Slice into medallions and serve with your favorite sides.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the brown sugar rub.
• Maple Glaze: Replace the brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer, deeper sweetness.
• Herb-Infused: Add rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix for a more aromatic touch.
• BBQ Twist: Brush with barbecue sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking for a smoky-sweet finish.
• Cheesy Surprise: Stuff the tenderloin with cream cheese and chives before wrapping it in bacon.

Serving Suggestions

This pork tenderloin pairs well with:

• Mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes.
• Green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
• A fresh salad with balsamic dressing.
• Rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

• Oven: Bake at 325°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, covered with a damp paper towel.
• Skillet: Sauté over medium-low heat to re-crisp the bacon.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes! A pork loin can be used, but it will take longer to cook. Adjust the baking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

2. How do I keep the bacon from falling off?

Secure it with toothpicks or wrap the tenderloin tightly so the bacon stays in place as it cooks.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can season and wrap the pork in bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated until ready to cook.

4. What’s the best way to get crispy bacon?

Broiling for the last 2-3 minutes helps crisp up the bacon. You can also partially cook the bacon before wrapping.

5. Can I cook this on the grill?

Absolutely! Grill over medium heat (375°F) for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

6. Can I use turkey bacon instead?

Yes, but it won’t crisp up as much as regular bacon. A light brush of oil can help with browning.

7. What internal temperature should pork tenderloin be?

For safe consumption, cook pork to 145°F and let it rest for a juicy texture.

8. Is this dish keto-friendly?

To make it keto, swap brown sugar for a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit sweetener.

9. Can I air-fry this?

Yes! Cook at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature is 145°F.

10. What’s the difference between pork loin and pork tenderloin?

Pork tenderloin is smaller, leaner, and cooks faster than pork loin, which is thicker and requires a longer cooking time.

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is a simple yet impressive dish that delivers juicy, flavorful, and crispy perfection in every bite. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try different variations, pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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