This bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a tasty treat! The juicy pork is hugged by crispy bacon that adds amazing flavor. It’s the perfect dish for any meal!
I love how the bacon keeps the pork tender and adds a smoky crunch. Seriously, who can resist bacon on anything? Pair it with some veggies, and you’re good to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloins: This dish shines with tenderloins because they are lean and cook up beautifully. If you can’t find tenderloin, you could use pork loin, though it may need a bit longer to cook.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for this recipe, as it gives a nice crispy texture. Turkey bacon is a lighter option, but it may not wrap as tightly or provide the same flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, try wrapping a vegetable like eggplant instead!
Spices: Smoked paprika adds great flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika with a touch of liquid smoke works too. You can swap thyme for oregano or rosemary if you prefer those herbs—both will add a lovely aroma.
Olive Oil: I recommend extra virgin olive oil for its flavor. You can substitute it with canola oil or avocado oil if you prefer a more neutral taste.
How Do You Sear the Pork Properly?
Searing is key for locking in flavors and creating a crispy exterior. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet—medium-high is the way to go.
- Add olive oil and let it heat up until shimmering; this helps the bacon crisp nicely.
- Carefully place the bacon-wrapped tenderloins in the skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Don’t rush this step! The caramelization from the heat will add a delicious layer of flavor. Remember, patience is key!
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Tenderloin:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 pound each)
- 8-10 slices of bacon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Spice Mixture:
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 30-35 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a tasty meal ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that heats up, grab the pork tenderloins and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is key as it helps the bacon stick better to the meat!
2. Make the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix it up well so all the spices are blended together. Now, rub this flavorful mixture all over the pork tenderloins, making sure to coat them evenly.
3. Wrap the Tenderloins in Bacon:
Lay out the slices of bacon on a clean surface, slightly overlapping each slice. Take one of the tenderloins and place it at one end of the bacon. Now, roll it up tightly in the bacon. Repeat this with the second tenderloin, making sure all the bacon is secured around the meat.
4. Searing the Pork:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the bacon-wrapped tenderloins to the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the bacon is nice and crispy. This step adds great flavor!
5. Baking Time:
Now that you’ve got them all seared, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the tenderloins for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
6. Resting and Serving:
Once they are done, take the skillet out of the oven and let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps keep all those juicy flavors in! After resting, slice the tenderloin into medallions and garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pork, you can use chicken breasts instead. Just be aware that cooking times may vary; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For beef, try a tender cut like filet mignon, but adjust the cooking time based on thickness.
What Can I Substitute for Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika combined with a little bit of cayenne pepper for heat, or just omit it if you prefer a milder flavor. Another alternative could be a bit of liquid smoke or a dash of cumin for a different but tasty twist!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use the microwave for quicker reheating, keeping in mind that the bacon may lose some crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pork tenderloins in advance by seasoning and wrapping them in bacon. Simply refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before searing. When ready to cook, bring them to room temperature for about 30 minutes before searing and baking for even cooking.
