Bacon Wrapped Pork Medallions are bite-sized pieces of tenderness wrapped in crispy bacon. It’s a delicious mix of flavors that makes your taste buds happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This cut is lean and tender, perfect for quick cooking. If you can’t find it, chicken breast or beef tenderloin can be substituted, but adjust the cooking time for different meats.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for more meatiness and better flavor. Turkey bacon can work if you’re looking for a leaner option, but it may not get as crispy.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These add great flavor without the hassle of chopping. If you prefer fresh, you can use minced garlic and finely chopped onion, just reduce the quantity slightly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Fresh Parsley: This is mainly for garnish, but it adds a nice touch of freshness. You can skip it or substitute with chives or cilantro if you like those flavors better.
How Do I Ensure the Pork is Cooked Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Cooking pork medallions without drying them can be tricky since they’re lean. Here are some essential tips:
- **Searing:** Make sure your skillet is hot to get a nice crust, which helps keep juices in.
- **Internal Temp:** Use a meat thermometer to check for that perfect 145°F (63°C). This ensures it’s cooked but still juicy.
- **Resting Time:** Let the medallions rest after baking. This helps redistribute the juices, so they don’t spill out when cut.
- **Even Slices:** Try to cut the medallions evenly. This helps them cook at the same rate and ensures all pieces are tender.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Pork Medallions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch medallions
- 8 slices of bacon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and cooking, followed by around 15 minutes in the oven. It’s quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’ll be ready when your medallions are all prepared and ready to go in.
2. Season the Pork:
Take your pork medallions and season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure each piece gets well coated for maximum flavor!
3. Wrap the Medallions:
Now, grab your slices of bacon. Wrap each seasoned medallion with a slice of bacon, making sure it covers as much of the pork as possible. If you need to, use a toothpick to secure the bacon in place.
4. Sear the Medallions:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bacon-wrapped medallions carefully. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bacon crisps up and the pork gets a nice browning.
5. Bake in the Oven:
Once they’re nicely seared, transfer the skillet directly into your preheated oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the pork is fully cooked. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Serve Up Deliciousness:
After baking, carefully take the skillet out of the oven and let the medallions rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm. These medallions pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon if you’d like a lower-fat option! Just bear in mind that turkey bacon may not render as much fat, so you might want to add a bit more olive oil when searing the medallions for extra moisture.
How Can I Make These Medallions Spicy?
If you want to add some heat, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper onto the pork before wrapping them in bacon. Adjust it to your spice preference, and feel free to add a drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce while serving for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to maintain the bacon’s crispiness.
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! While pork tenderloin works best for this recipe, you can also use pork loin or boneless pork chops. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, especially if the cuts are thicker or thinner than medallions.
