If you want to impress your family or guests with a mouthwatering meal, learning how to cook bacon wrapped pork tenderloin is a great place to start. This dish combines tender, juicy pork with crispy, flavorful bacon—a combination that’s hard to resist.
You might be wondering how to get that perfect balance of smoky bacon and succulent pork without overcooking either. Don’t worry, you’re about to discover simple steps that will help you master this delicious recipe every time. Keep reading, and you’ll soon be serving up a bacon wrapped pork tenderloin that’s bursting with flavor and sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
Pork tenderloin is the main ingredient for this dish. Choose a fresh, lean cut around 1 to 1.5 pounds. Bacon strips are essential to wrap the tenderloin. Use thick-cut bacon for better flavor and texture. Garlic adds a nice aroma and taste. Fresh rosemary sprigs give a pleasant, herbal note. Olive oil helps to sear the meat and keep it moist. Salt and black pepper are needed for seasoning. Dijon mustard can be used to coat the pork for extra flavor. Optionally, garlic powder and onion powder can be added for more depth. All these ingredients combine to create a tasty, juicy bacon wrapped pork tenderloin.
Preparing Pork Tenderloin
Start by removing the silver skin from the pork tenderloin. This thin, shiny layer does not cook well and can make the meat tough.
Use a sharp knife to gently lift and cut the silver skin away. Take care not to cut into the meat itself.
Next, pat the meat dry with paper towels. Drying helps the bacon stick better and makes the pork brown nicely.
Removing moisture also helps the seasoning stick to the meat. This step is simple but very important for a tasty result.
Seasoning And Wrapping
Start by mixing salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to make a simple rub. Rub this all over the pork tenderloin. This adds flavor and helps the bacon stick.
Lay out the bacon strips side by side on a clean surface. The bacon should slightly overlap to cover the pork fully. This creates a nice, crispy outside.
Place the seasoned pork on the bacon. Roll it tightly, making sure the bacon wraps around evenly. This keeps the pork moist while cooking.
Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to secure the bacon in place. This stops it from unraveling in the oven. Tie or poke at regular intervals for best results.
Cooking Methods
Searing the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin helps to lock in juices. Use medium-high heat and cook each side until the bacon is crisp and brown. This step creates a tasty crust and keeps the meat moist.
Oven baking cooks the tenderloin evenly inside. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the seared tenderloin on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
A cast iron skillet works well for both searing and baking. It holds heat well and gives a nice crust to the bacon. After searing, place the skillet in the oven to finish cooking.
Grilling adds a smoky flavor. Use medium heat and turn the tenderloin often. Grill for 20-25 minutes until the pork is cooked through and bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time And Temperature
The recommended oven temperature for bacon wrapped pork tenderloin is usually 375°F (190°C). This temperature helps the bacon crisp up nicely while cooking the pork evenly.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The pork is safe to eat at 145°F (63°C). Let the meat rest for 3 minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy and tender.
| Factor | Effect on Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Meat Thickness | Thicker cuts need longer cooking times |
| Oven Type | Convection ovens cook faster than standard ovens |
| Bacon Thickness | Thicker bacon may require more cooking time |
| Starting Temperature | Room temperature meat cooks more evenly |
Serving Suggestions
Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions about 1/2 inch thick. This helps serve easy portions and shows off the crispy bacon wrap.
Use a sharp knife and cut straight down to keep slices neat. Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps juices inside, making the meat juicy and tender.
Pair the dish with simple sides like mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables. These sides balance the rich bacon and pork flavors well.
Fresh salads with a light vinaigrette also work great. They add a fresh, tangy taste that cuts through the bacon’s saltiness.
Try sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a creamy garlic sauce. These add extra flavor and moisture to each bite.
A light apple sauce or cranberry chutney can bring a sweet contrast to the smoky bacon taste.
Tips For Best Results
Keep the pork tenderloin moist by not overcooking it. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check. Wrap bacon tightly around the tenderloin so it stays in place and crisps evenly.
Cook bacon wrapped tenderloin on a rack or in a pan that allows fat to drip away. This helps the bacon become crisp and golden. Avoid turning the meat too often; let the bacon cook undisturbed for best texture.
Rest the meat for about 5-10 minutes after cooking. This lets juices spread inside the pork, making it juicier and easier to slice. Cover the tenderloin loosely with foil during resting to keep it warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long To Cook Pork Tenderloin Bacon Wrapped?
Cook bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes. Ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Rest 5 minutes before slicing.
What Is The Best Method To Cook A Pork Tenderloin?
Sear pork tenderloin in a hot pan to brown bacon, then roast in the oven at 400°F until internal temperature reaches 145°F. Rest before slicing.
How Long Does A Pork Tenderloin Take In The Oven At 350 Degrees?
A pork tenderloin takes about 25 to 30 minutes to cook in a 350°F oven. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F.
What Is The 7 6 5 Method For Pork Tenderloin?
The 7 6 5 method for pork tenderloin means cooking it at 425°F for 7 minutes, resting 6 minutes, then slicing into 5 pieces.
Conclusion
Cooking bacon wrapped pork tenderloin is simple and rewarding. Follow the steps carefully for juicy, flavorful results. Use fresh ingredients and monitor the cooking time closely. Let the meat rest before slicing to keep it tender. Enjoy this tasty dish with your favorite sides.
Practice makes perfect, so keep trying and adjusting to your taste. This recipe suits both beginners and experienced cooks. Serve it at dinner or special occasions to impress guests. Cooking can be fun and delicious with easy recipes like this.
