Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin

Introduction

This Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin is the ultimate sweet-and-savory dinner recipe. Juicy pork tenderloin is wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a caramelized brown sugar glaze that melts into the meat as it roasts. It’s an easy oven-baked dish that looks impressive but requires minimal prep—perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1½–2 lb pork tenderloin
• 8–10 slices bacon
• ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Optional: 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the pork: Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels.
3. Season: Rub pork with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Spread Dijon mustard if using.
4. Wrap with bacon: Tightly wrap bacon slices around the pork, overlapping slightly. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Add brown sugar: Press brown sugar evenly over the bacon-wrapped pork.
6. Bake: Place pork in the baking dish and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Caramelize: Optional—broil for 2–3 minutes for extra crispy bacon.
8. Rest: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
9. Serve: Slice into medallions and drizzle with pan juices.

Tips for Best Results

• Use thin-cut bacon so it crisps properly.
• Don’t overcook—pork tenderloin stays juiciest at 145°F.
• For extra sauce, add 2 tablespoons butter to the pan juices after baking.
• Letting the pork rest keeps it tender and moist.

FAQs

Can I make bacon brown sugar pork tenderloin ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I use pork loin instead of tenderloin?
Yes, but pork loin is thicker and requires longer cooking time.

Why is my bacon not crispy?
Use thin bacon and broil for a few minutes at the end.

Is this recipe sweet?
It’s perfectly balanced—sweet from brown sugar and savory from bacon.

What goes well with this pork tenderloin?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or rice pair beautifully.