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Perfect Bourbon-Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

bourbon-glazed bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin - featured image

A quick and easy bourbon-glazed bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin recipe that delivers a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tender flavors, ideal for busy weeknights or dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
  • 8 to 10 slices bacon, thin or regular cut
  • 1/4 cup bourbon (60 ml)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (50 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Trim any silver skin from the pork tenderloin and pat dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt and black pepper.
  2. Lay out bacon strips slightly overlapping on a clean surface. Place the tenderloin at one end and roll it tightly in the bacon. Secure loose ends with toothpicks if needed.
  3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped tenderloin on all sides until bacon is browned and starting to crisp, about 2–3 minutes per side.
  4. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine bourbon, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and smoked paprika. Stir frequently and simmer until thickened and glossy, about 6–8 minutes.
  5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the glaze liberally over the seared tenderloin. Transfer the skillet or pan to the oven and roast for 15–20 minutes, brushing with more glaze halfway through. Cook until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  6. Remove from oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Slice into medallions and drizzle with any remaining glaze.

Notes

If bacon isn’t crisping enough in the oven, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork reaches 145°F for juiciest results. Apply glaze in layers for best sticky coating. Let meat rest after roasting to keep it juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork tenderloin, bourbon glaze, bacon wrapped, easy dinner, quick recipe, comfort food, dinner party, smoky, sweet glaze