Description
This Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin recipe transforms a simple cut of pork into a flavor-packed, show-stopping dish. The sweetness of brown sugar and honey combines beautifully with the savory bacon and tangy Dijon mustard, creating a glaze that caramelizes to perfection during baking. The bacon not only adds a smoky flavor but also helps to keep the pork tenderloin incredibly moist and juicy. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. The tenderloin is wrapped in crispy bacon and glazed with a mixture of brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The bacon keeps the pork incredibly moist, while the glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Ingredients:
- 1 pork tenderloin (1-2 pounds)
- 8-12 strips of bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce until well combined. This glaze will provide a delicious sweet and savory coating for the pork.
Step 3: Season Pork: Pat the pork tenderloin dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasonings adhere better. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the pork.
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon: Lay bacon strips on a cutting board, slightly overlapping each strip. Place the seasoned pork tenderloin on top of the bacon. Wrap the bacon strips around the tenderloin, ensuring it’s fully covered. If needed, secure the bacon with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during baking.
Step 5: Add Glaze: Brush half of the prepared brown sugar glaze evenly over the bacon-wrapped tenderloin. Reserve the remaining glaze for later.
Step 6: Bake: Place the tenderloin on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking. About halfway through the baking time, brush the tenderloin with the remaining glaze.
Step 7: Rest and Serve: Once the pork tenderloin reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Remove any toothpicks before slicing and serving.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and simple ingredients. Second, it delivers an explosion of flavor, balancing sweet and savory notes perfectly. The bacon adds a smoky richness, while the brown sugar glaze creates a beautiful caramelization. Third, it’s a crowd-pleaser, suitable for both casual weeknight dinners and more formal gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. This dish also offers versatility, as you can easily customize the glaze with different spices or herbs to suit your taste preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to elevate a simple pork tenderloin into a memorable meal.
DRINK Rating:
- Red Wine: Medium-bodied red wines like Pinot Noir or Merlot complement the sweetness and smokiness of the dish.
- White Wine: A crisp Riesling or Gewürztraminer can also pair well, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pork.
- Beer: Amber ales or brown ales are good choices, as their malty flavors enhance the savory notes of the dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or sweet potatoes.
- Creamy mashed potatoes or polenta make a comforting side dish.
- A fresh green salad provides a light and refreshing contrast.
- Quinoa or rice pilaf can be served as a healthy and satisfying accompaniment.
- For a complete meal, add a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious glaze.
Tips:
- For extra crispy bacon, broil the tenderloin for the last few minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard.
- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a hint of spice.
- To ensure even cooking, use bacon strips that are of similar thickness.
- Leftover pork tenderloin can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 404 per serving Protein: 35g Sodium: 500mg (This can vary based on the bacon used)
Conclusion
This Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky elements makes it a truly unforgettable dish. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. The bacon-wrapped tenderloin stays incredibly moist, while the brown sugar glaze creates a beautiful caramelized crust. So, fire up your oven and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional pork tenderloin, elevating it to new heights with the addition of bacon and a luscious brown sugar glaze. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this dish is a must-try for any home cook.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use thick-cut bacon for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use thick-cut bacon, but it may take longer to cook and become crispy. Keep an eye on it and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: What if I don’t have brown sugar? Can I use white sugar instead? A: While brown sugar adds a depth of flavor, you can substitute it with white sugar in a pinch. However, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses to mimic the flavor of brown sugar.
Q3: How do I know when the pork tenderloin is fully cooked? A: The best way to ensure the pork is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the tenderloin and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q4: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: You can wrap the pork tenderloin with bacon and prepare the glaze ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble them just before baking.
Q5: What can I do with the leftover glaze? A: Leftover glaze can be used as a marinade for other meats, such as chicken or steak. You can also drizzle it over roasted vegetables for added flavor.
