How To Make Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin – The Easy Way!
What To Know
- Place the pork tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Sear the pork tenderloin for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the bacon is browned and the pork is cooked through.
- A fresh and crisp salad provides a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the pork tenderloin.
Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a dish that combines the savory flavors of bacon with the tender and juicy texture of pork. It’s an elegant and flavorful dish that is perfect for special occasions or a weeknight meal. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about how to bacon wrapped pork tenderloin, from selecting the perfect ingredients to mastering the cooking techniques.
Selecting the Right Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the final result of your bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin. Here are a few tips for choosing the best:
- Pork Tenderloin: Opt for a pork tenderloin that is about 1 pound in weight and has a uniform thickness.
- Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture. Look for bacon that is evenly sliced and has a good balance of fat and meat.
- Seasonings: Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
Preparing the Pork Tenderloin
Before wrapping the pork tenderloin in bacon, it’s important to prepare it properly:
- Trim the Fat: Remove any excess fat from the pork tenderloin. This will help prevent the bacon from burning and will make the dish less greasy.
- Season the Pork: Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt, pepper, and your desired herbs and spices. Rub the seasonings into the meat to ensure even flavor distribution.
Wrapping the Pork Tenderloin
Once the pork tenderloin is seasoned, it’s time to wrap it in bacon:
- Overlapping Bacon: Lay out 8-10 slices of bacon on a cutting board, overlapping them slightly.
- Place the Pork: Place the seasoned pork tenderloin on the bacon slices.
- Roll the Bacon: Roll the bacon slices around the pork tenderloin, starting from one end and working your way to the other.
- Secure with Toothpicks: Secure the bacon with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
Cooking the Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
There are several ways to cook bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin:
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pork tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the pork tenderloin for 15-20 minutes, turning frequently, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the pork tenderloin for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the bacon is browned and the pork is cooked through.
Resting the Pork Tenderloin
After cooking, it’s important to let the pork tenderloin rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Slicing and Serving
Once the pork tenderloin has rested, slice it into 1-inch thick slices and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
Perfect Pairings
Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for pork tenderloin, providing a smooth and comforting complement to the savory flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts, add a colorful and nutritious side to the dish.
- Salad: A fresh and crisp salad provides a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the pork tenderloin.
Summary: Elevate Your Culinary Skills
Mastering the art of bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a culinary skill that will impress your family and friends. By following these detailed instructions, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you choose to oven-roast, grill, or skillet-sear your pork tenderloin, the result will be a succulent and flavorful masterpiece that will elevate your culinary skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to season the pork tenderloin?
A: Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Rub the seasonings into the meat to ensure even flavor distribution.
Q: How do I prevent the bacon from burning?
A: Trim any excess fat from the pork tenderloin before wrapping it in bacon. This will help prevent the bacon from burning and will make the dish less greasy.
Q: Can I use any type of bacon?
A: Yes, you can use any type of bacon you prefer. However, using thick-cut bacon will provide the best flavor and texture.
Q: What is the internal temperature the pork tenderloin should reach?
A: The internal temperature of the pork tenderloin should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 150°F (65°C) for medium, or 155°F (68°C) for medium-well.
Q: How long should I rest the pork tenderloin before slicing?
A: Let the pork tenderloin rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
