The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Sara a passionate home cook who loves turning simple ingredients into meals that make everyone at the table smile. One of my favorite dishes to serve when I want to impress with minimal stress is this Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin.
I remember the first time I made it. My kitchen smelled heavenly the smoky aroma of crisping bacon mixed with the rich scent of roasted pork. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted something cozy yet elegant for dinner. This recipe became an instant hit! Everyone thought I’d spent hours preparing it, but the secret is: it’s surprisingly easy.
The beauty of Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin lies in its simplicity. The bacon locks in the moisture, giving the pork a juicy, tender texture, while the slight saltiness balances perfectly with the natural sweetness of the meat. The combination of smoky, savory, and juicy flavors is absolutely irresistible.
If you’re looking for a meal that looks restaurant-worthy but comes together effortlessly, this Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is your new go-to. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a date night, or a special holiday meal, this dish never disappoints.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds pork tenderloin
- 8–10 slices of bacon (thin-cut works best)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for glaze)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Pat your pork tenderloin dry with paper towels this helps the seasoning stick. Rub it all over with olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes to soak in all the flavor.
Step 2: Wrap in Bacon
Lay the bacon slices slightly overlapping on a sheet of parchment paper. Place the pork on top, then carefully roll it so the bacon wraps around it evenly. Secure the ends underneath or with toothpicks if needed.
Step 3: Sear for Flavor
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin seam side down and sear for about 2–3 minutes on each side until the bacon starts to crisp.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). For extra flavor, brush the top with honey or maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Rest & Slice
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps your pork tender and moist.
Serving Suggestions
This Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. I love drizzling a little pan juice over the slices for added flavor.
If you’re planning a dinner party, serve it on a wooden board with fresh thyme sprigs for that rustic touch. The presentation alone will make your guests’ eyes light up!
🕒 Recipe Card
⏰ Time Cook: 40 minutes total (15 prep, 25 cook)
🥓 Ingredients: Pork tenderloin, bacon, garlic, thyme, Dijon mustard, olive oil
👩🍳 Instructions: Season pork → wrap with bacon → sear → bake → rest & serve
💡 Note: Use a thermometer to check doneness (145°F)
💪 Nutrition (per serving): ~320 calories | 25g protein | 20g fat | 3g carbs
Conclusion
There’s something magical about the simplicity of Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin it’s rustic yet sophisticated, hearty yet light. The bacon ensures every bite is juicy, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
Every time I make this recipe, I’m reminded that the best dishes don’t need to be complicated. With just a few good ingredients and a little love, you can create something unforgettable. So the next time you’re looking for a dinner that brings comfort and elegance to the table, trust this recipe it’ll make your kitchen smell divine and your guests smile from the first bite.