This recipe creates a flavorful and moist pork tenderloin wrapped in crispy bacon and glazed with a sweet and savory brown sugar mixture. The bacon adds a smoky flavor and helps to keep the pork tender during cooking, while the brown sugar glaze creates a delicious caramelized crust. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1-1.5 pounds each)
- 1 pound bacon, each slice cut in half
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup.
- Prepare Pork Tenderloins: Trim any excess silver skin from the pork tenderloins. Season the tenderloins generously with salt and pepper.
- Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each pork tenderloin with the halved bacon slices, slightly overlapping them to cover as much of the pork as possible. Secure the bacon with toothpicks if needed.
- Make Brown Sugar Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the packed brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Glaze Pork Tenderloins: Brush the brown sugar glaze evenly over the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloins.
- Bake: Place the prepared pork tenderloins on the lined baking sheet and bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). The bacon should be crispy and the glaze caramelized.
- Rest: Remove the pork tenderloins from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
- Slice and Serve: Remove any toothpicks and slice the pork tenderloins into 1-inch thick medallions. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Tips and Notes:
- Bacon Quality: Use good quality bacon for the best flavor and crispiness.
- Glaze Adjustment: You can adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less brown sugar. A pinch of cayenne pepper can be added for a touch of heat.
- Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time, as it is crucial for a juicy tenderloin.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this bacon-wrapped brown sugar pork tenderloin with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloins ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Enjoy this delicious and impressive Bacon-Wrapped Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin!