There’s something magical about a well-cooked pork tenderloin that’s wrapped in smoky, crispy bacon and finished with a caramelized glaze. It’s the kind of dish that instantly elevates a regular dinner into something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for your family, preparing a holiday meal, or simply treating yourself to a hearty and flavorful dish, this Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin is sure to impress. The combination of salty, smoky bacon and sweet, slightly crispy brown sugar creates a beautiful contrast of flavors that makes each bite incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s a simple yet elegant dish that doesn’t require complicated techniques, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced home cooks.
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a light side salad with a citrus dressing to balance the richness of the pork. If you’re in the mood for something a little sweeter, consider serving it with baked apples or honey-glazed carrots. No matter how you plate it, this tenderloin is bound to be a crowd-pleaser!
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1.5-2 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8-10 slices of bacon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Trim any excess fat and silver skin from the pork tenderloin to ensure an even cook.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing until well blended.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over the entire pork tenderloin, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Wrap the bacon slices around the tenderloin, slightly overlapping them. Use toothpicks if necessary to keep the bacon in place.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin and sear on all sides until the bacon is crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the pork rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for a moist and tender bite.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Variations & Tips:
- For a smoky kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- If you don’t have Dijon mustard, substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a slightly different but equally delicious glaze.
- Want a more herbaceous flavor? Try adding fresh rosemary or thyme to the rub.
- To make this dish keto-friendly, omit the brown sugar and use a blend of smoked paprika and garlic for natural sweetness.
- If you prefer a crispier bacon exterior, broil the tenderloin for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time.
Nutritional & Dietary Information:
This dish is a great source of protein and healthy fats from the pork and bacon. However, due to the bacon and brown sugar, it does contain a moderate amount of sodium and sugar. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using a lower-sodium bacon or reducing the amount of added salt. For a lower-carb option, you can skip the brown sugar glaze and use a blend of herbs and spices instead. This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring:
Cooking is more than just a task—it’s a way to bring people together, create lasting memories, and share the love of good food. If you tried this recipe and loved it, share it with friends or leave a comment about how it turned out for you! Did you try any variations? Do you have a favorite side dish to pair with it? Your feedback helps others discover new ways to enjoy this delicious meal. So don’t be shy—let’s keep the conversation going and inspire more home cooks to bring this mouthwatering dish to their tables!