Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
I still remember the first time I made a Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin for my family. The aroma of sizzling bacon and roasting pork filled the entire house, and everyone couldn't wait to take a bite. It was love at first bite, and since then, this dish has become a staple in our household.
There's something special about the combination of tender pork, crispy bacon, and a blend of spices that makes this recipe truly unforgettable. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is sure to impress your family and friends.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a dish that's both elegant and delicious. The key is to use high-quality ingredients, like thick-cut bacon and fresh spices, and to not be afraid to get creative with the seasoning.
In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making a Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin that's sure to become a favorite in your household. From the initial prep work to the final presentation, I'll share my tips and tricks for achieving a dish that's both flavorful and visually appealing.
So, let's get started and make a Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin that will leave everyone wanting more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
- The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- The combination of bacon and pork provides a rich and savory flavor profile.
- The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite spices and seasonings.
- The dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its elegant presentation.
- The leftovers can be easily reheated and enjoyed for days to come.
Why This Recipe Works
The secret to a great Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin lies in the combination of flavors and textures. The crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory element, while the tender pork provides a lean and juicy base. The blend of spices, including thyme, rosemary, and garlic, adds depth and complexity to the dish.
Another important aspect of this recipe is the cooking technique. By cooking the pork tenderloin in a hot skillet with some oil, we can achieve a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The bacon, which is wrapped around the pork, adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Finally, the resting time is crucial in allowing the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together. This step ensures that the pork stays tender and juicy, even after slicing.
Overall, the combination of flavors, textures, and cooking techniques makes this Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin a truly unforgettable dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to making a great Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin, the ingredients are just as important as the cooking technique. Look for high-quality bacon, fresh spices, and a tender pork tenderloin to ensure the best flavor and texture.
In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a dish that's both flavorful and elegant. From the crispy bacon to the fragrant thyme, each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this recipe truly special.
- 1 (1-1.5 lb) pork tenderloinLook for a tenderloin with a good balance of fat and lean meat, as this will ensure the most flavorful and tender results.
- 6 slices of thick-cut baconThick-cut bacon is essential for this recipe, as it provides a nice crunch and flavor to the dish.
- 2 tbsp olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil with a mild flavor to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.
- 2 cloves garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential for adding depth and complexity to the dish.
- 1 tsp dried thymeDried thyme provides a subtle, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the pork and bacon.
- 1 tsp dried rosemaryDried rosemary adds a fragrant, herbaceous flavor to the dish.
- 1 tsp saltUse a high-quality salt with a mild flavor to enhance the other ingredients.
- 1/2 tsp black pepperFreshly ground black pepper adds a nice kick to the dish.
- 1/4 cup chicken brothChicken broth helps to keep the pork moist and adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
- 2 tbsp butterUnsalted butter is essential for adding a rich, creamy flavor to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to tasteAdjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
- 1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 2In a small bowl, mix together the thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- 3Rub the spice mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
- 4Wrap the bacon slices around the pork tenderloin, securing them with toothpicks if needed.
- 5Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
- 6Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- 7Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- 8While the pork is resting, melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken broth and whisk to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- 9Slice the pork tenderloin into thick slices and serve with the pan sauce spooned over the top.
- 10Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve immediately.
Expert Tips
- Make sure to not overcook the pork, as it can become dry and tough.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Let the pork rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Use high-quality ingredients, including thick-cut bacon and fresh spices, to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Don't be afraid to get creative with the seasoning and add your favorite spices and herbs.
- Consider serving the pork with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
- Leftovers can be easily reheated and enjoyed for days to come.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pork, which can result in a dry and tough texture.
- Not letting the pork rest long enough, which can cause the juices to run out and the meat to become dry.
- Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Not deglazing the pan properly, which can result in a lack of flavor in the pan sauce.
- Not using a meat thermometer, which can result in undercooked or overcooked pork.
- Not wrapping the bacon tightly enough, which can cause it to come loose during cooking.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add some diced onions or bell peppers to the pan with the bacon for added flavor.
- Use different types of bacon, such as applewood-smoked or brown sugar-cured, for a unique flavor profile.
- Add some dried cranberries or cherries to the pan sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Use fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to garnish the dish and add a pop of color.
- Serve the pork with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts for a delicious and healthy meal.
- Try using different types of pork, such as pork loin or pork belly, for a unique texture and flavor.
- Add some grated cheese, such as parmesan or cheddar, to the pan sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
What to Serve With Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
This Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is perfect for serving with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Consider pairing it with a glass of red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, for a truly unforgettable meal.
Some other ideas for serving this dish include:
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
If you're not planning to serve the pork immediately, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply slice the pork and place it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
It's also a good idea to let the pork come to room temperature before reheating, as this will help it to cook more evenly. Additionally, you can reheat the pan sauce in a saucepan over low heat, whisking constantly, until warmed through.
When freezing the pork, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can also freeze the pan sauce separately and reheat it when you're ready to serve the pork.
Overall, this Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you're serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a weeknight meal, it's sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of bacon is best for this recipe?
Thick-cut bacon is essential for this recipe, as it provides a nice crunch and flavor to the dish. You can use any type of bacon you like, but applewood-smoked or brown sugar-cured bacon works particularly well.
How do I know when the pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork. The pork is cooked to a safe internal temperature when it reaches 145°F (63°C).
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the pork and let it cool, then refrigerate or freeze it until you're ready to serve. Reheat the pork in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.
What type of pan is best for cooking the pork?
A large skillet with a heavy bottom is best for cooking the pork. This type of pan allows for even heat distribution and can withstand high temperatures.
Can I use a different type of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a different type of pork for this recipe. Pork loin or pork belly work well, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
How do I prevent the bacon from coming loose during cooking?
To prevent the bacon from coming loose during cooking, make sure to wrap it tightly around the pork and secure it with toothpicks if needed. You can also use a little bit of oil or butter to help the bacon stick to the pork.
Can I serve this recipe at a dinner party?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for serving at a dinner party. It's elegant, delicious, and can be made ahead of time to make your life easier. Simply slice the pork and serve it with your favorite sides and sauces.
How do I reheat the pork without drying it out?
To reheat the pork without drying it out, make sure to slice it thinly and heat it in the oven or on the stovetop with a little bit of oil or butter. You can also add some liquid, such as chicken broth or pan sauce, to the pork to keep it moist and flavorful.

Ingredients
- 1 (1-1.5 lb) pork tenderloin
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the pork tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Wrap the bacon slices around the pork tenderloin, securing them with toothpicks if needed.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- While the pork is resting, melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken broth and whisk to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Slice the pork tenderloin into thick slices and serve with the pan sauce spooned over the top.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve immediately.