Description

Imagine an enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen, the sizzle of bacon wrapping a tender pork tenderloin, caramelizing in a sweet, flavorful glaze. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of textures and flavors. The rich, savory notes of the pork, combined with the salty crispness of the bacon and the sweet touch of brown sugar, create a harmony that will make your taste buds dance with delight.

This dish, often a highlight at family dinners and celebrations, is deceptively simple to prepare. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe comes together beautifully. The slow cooker does most of the work while you carry on with your day, allowing you to come home to a warm, hearty meal that might just earn you a standing ovation from your loved ones—like it did for me when my husband first tasted it!

Cooking is not just about the food; it's a joyous experience, often filled with sentimental value as you create memories with those you love. This bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a perfect example of a dish that brings people together around the table, enticing them with its aromas and flavors.

Ingredients

• For the pork and bacon wrap:
• 1 pork tenderloin (about 1.5-2 pounds)
• 6-8 slices of bacon
• For the glaze:
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Substitutions and Variations:
• If you want to switch things up a bit, feel free to experiment with different spices or glazes. For instance, honey can be an excellent substitute for brown sugar if you prefer a more subtle sweetness. You can also swap the smoked paprika for regular paprika for a less smoky flavor or even use chipotle powder for a spicy kick. Looking for a low-carb version? Try wrapping the tenderloin in turkey bacon instead.

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing your workspace; ensure you have everything you need close at hand. Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it ensures the seasoning adheres well. Season it generously with salt and pepper, being mindful to cover all the surfaces.

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix these ingredients until well blended, creating a paste-like mixture that will add layers of flavor to your pork. Rub this brown sugar mixture all over the pork tenderloin. Ensure every inch is covered, allowing the flavors to infuse as it cooks. Set this aside for a moment.

Now, it’s time for the bacon to shine. Take your slices and lay them out on a clean surface, slightly overlapping each slice. The overlapping technique is vital as it ensures full coverage of the pork when wrapped, creating an irresistibly flavorful crust. Place the seasoned pork tenderloin onto the center of the bacon slice array.

Gently wrap the bacon around the pork tenderloin. As you wrap, try to maintain even tension, ensuring the bacon encases the pork snugly but not too tight. This will allow the bacon to crisp up during cooking and ensure the tenderloin retains its moisture. Once wrapped, carefully transfer the bacon-covered tenderloin to your slow cooker, placing it seam side down. This positioning helps keep the bacon in place as it cooks.

Securely cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours. Cooking on low allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the pork becomes tender and juicy. The amount of time needed can vary based on the size of your tenderloin and your slow cooker, so be sure to check for doneness. The pork should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and feel tender when you test it with a fork.

Once the cooking time is up, carefully lift the tenderloin out of the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon, allowing some of the juices to drain. Let it rest for a few minutes on a cutting board before slicing into it. Resting is an essential step in cooking meat as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.

When you’re ready to serve, slice the tenderloin into ½-inch thick medallions, revealing the beautifully cooked center enveloped by the crispy, caramelized bacon. Drizzle some of the cooking juices over the pork for an extra layer of flavor that will make each bite absolutely divine.

Tips and Conclusion

For the perfect accompaniment to this dish, consider preparing a refreshing coleslaw to provide a crunchy contrast to the savory flavors of the pork. Alternatively, roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes can enhance the meal's festive feel.

If you find yourself with leftovers, it’s quite simple to store them. Place the sliced pork in an airtight container, and pour some of the cooking juices over it to keep it moist. It should last in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for making quick lunches! Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring not to dry it out.
As you savor each bite of this delectable bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, you’ll appreciate the perfect balance of flavors and the ease of preparation that it offers. It’s a dish that shines at potlucks, family gatherings, or even a quiet dinner at home. After all, it embodies the essence of comfort food and brings joy to the dinner table.

If you enjoyed this recipe, why not dive deeper into our collection? You might find other mouthwatering options that spark your culinary creativity. Perhaps a succulent slow-cooked beef stew or a zesty lemon herb chicken would catch your eye. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, ensuring they too can experience the joy of this bacon-wrapped delight. Happy cooking!