This tasty pork tenderloin is wrapped in crispy bacon and smoked to perfection! The smoky flavor makes it a real crowd-pleaser, and who can resist bacon?
I love how easy it is to make; just wrap, smoke, and enjoy. It’s perfect for dinner or impressing friends at a barbecue. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Tenderloin: This lean cut is perfect for grilling. If you can’t find pork tenderloin, you can substitute it with chicken breast or turkey tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as poultry cooks faster.
Bacon: Bacon adds great flavor and a crispy texture. I enjoy using thick-cut bacon for its heartiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon can be a good alternative, but keep in mind it won’t crisp up as much.
Brown Sugar: It gives a sweet depth to the spice rub. If you’re avoiding sugar, consider using coconut sugar or even a sugar substitute like stevia. Just be sure to check the conversion rates for sweetness.
Spices: Smoked paprika is key here for a smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika with a bit more garlic powder can work. Always adjust spices to your preference—they’re your best friends in flavor enhancing!
How Do I Ensure the Bacon Stays Wrapped During Cooking?
Keeping the bacon in place can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you’ll be just fine. First, make sure to lay the bacon strips out overlapping slightly to create a good base. Use toothpicks to secure the ends of the bacon tightly around the tenderloin as you roll it up. This will help prevent any slipping while it cooks.
- Preheat the grill before placing the tenderloin on it to promote even cooking.
- Consider wrapping with kitchen twine for extra security, if toothpicks seem unsteady.
Pellet Grill Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 to 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
- 8-10 slices of bacon
For the Spice Rub:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 2 to 2.5 hours for smoking the pork. You’ll want to allow an extra 10 minutes for resting after it comes off the grill. In total, be ready to spend around 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours for this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your pellet grill to a nice low temperature of 225°F (107°C). This slow cooking will add amazing flavor and tenderness to the pork tenderloin.
2. Mix the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mix will add a sweet and smoky flavor to the tenderloin!
3. Prepare the Tenderloin:
Now, pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This step helps the spice rub stick better. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the entire pork tenderloin, making sure to cover all sides.
4. Wrap in Bacon:
Lay out the bacon strips on a clean surface so they slightly overlap. Then, take the seasoned pork tenderloin and place it at one end of the bacon. Roll it up tightly, wrapping the bacon all the way around the tenderloin. If needed, secure the bacon with toothpicks to hold it in place.
5. Smoke the Tenderloin:
Place the bacon-wrapped tenderloin on your preheated pellet grill. Let it smoke for about 2 to 2.5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). A meat thermometer is a great tool to check this!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the tenderloin from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist. Lastly, slice, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve your delicious smoked pork tenderloin warm. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat Instead of Pork Tenderloin?
Yes! While pork tenderloin is ideal for this recipe, you can also use pork loin or chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as each cut cooks differently—chicken may take a bit less time, while pork loin may require more.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mixture. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to your spice tolerance. You could also incorporate some diced jalapeños into the bacon wrap for an extra kick!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have a Pellet Grill?
No worries! You can cook this in an oven. Preheat to 225°F (107°C) and follow the same instructions. Use a wire rack on a baking sheet to allow the bacon to crisp up while the tenderloin cooks evenly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the bacon crispy. You can also slice it cold for a delicious addition to salads or sandwiches!
