Bacon wrapped pork tenderloin

Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

This Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is a savory and flavorful dish that combines the tenderness of pork with the smokiness and crispiness of bacon. The bacon helps keep the pork tenderloin juicy while adding a delightful crunch and flavor. Perfect for a special dinner or a family gathering!

Ingredients:

• 1 pork tenderloin (about 1-1.5 pounds)

• 8-10 slices of bacon (depending on the size of your tenderloin)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a rack in the center of the oven.

2. Season the Pork Tenderloin:

   • Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

   • Rub the tenderloin with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat the pork evenly on all sides.

3. Wrap with Bacon:

   • Lay the bacon slices out on a clean surface, slightly overlapping, to form a “bacon blanket.”

   • Place the seasoned pork tenderloin at one end of the bacon and carefully roll it up, wrapping the bacon around the pork tenderloin. Tuck the ends of the bacon underneath the tenderloin so it stays in place.

   • If you’re using fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary), you can sprinkle them over the pork before wrapping with bacon for added aroma and flavor.

4. Sear the Pork (Optional):

   • For a crispier bacon exterior, you can sear the wrapped pork tenderloin in a hot skillet before baking. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil.

   • Once the skillet is hot, place the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin in the skillet and sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the bacon begins to crisp up. This step is optional but adds a beautiful texture to the bacon.

5. Roast the Pork Tenderloin:

   • If you’ve seared the pork, transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven. If you didn’t sear it, simply place the wrapped pork tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

   • Roast the pork for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This will result in a tender and slightly pink center. If you prefer your pork more well-done, continue roasting for another 5-10 minutes.

6. Rest and Serve:

   • Once the pork tenderloin reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy, tender cut of meat.

   • Slice the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin into medallions and serve.

Tips:

• Bacon Selection: Thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe because it holds up better in the oven and provides a nice crispy exterior.

• Flavor Add-ins: For extra flavor, you can stuff the pork tenderloin with ingredients like cream cheese, spinach, or roasted garlic before wrapping it with bacon.

• Gravy or Sauce: If you like, you can serve this dish with a simple gravy or a balsamic glaze for added flavor.

This Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is juicy, flavorful, and visually impressive, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. The bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor to the tender pork, and the result is a deliciously satisfying meal. Enjoy!