The Story & Intro
Every time I cook bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, I think about family dinners in Crete, when my grandmother would prepare pork roasts with herbs and olive oil that filled the house with the most amazing aroma. She didn’t use bacon that’s my little twist but she believed that meat should always be seasoned with love, garlic, and patience.
The first time I wrapped pork tenderloin in bacon, I was nervous. Would it cook evenly? Would it stay juicy? The moment I sliced into it and saw that perfect tender pink center surrounded by crispy golden bacon, I knew it was magic.
Now, this dish has become one of my go-to recipes when I want something simple yet impressive. It’s the kind of meal that looks fancy but is actually so easy to make. The bacon keeps the pork tenderloin incredibly moist, while the smoky flavor melts into the meat. Add a touch of Dijon mustard, garlic, and rosemary, and you’ve got something that feels like it came straight from a restaurant but with that homemade warmth we love.
What I love most about this bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin recipe is its versatility. You can serve it for Sunday dinner, a date night, or even during the holidays. It pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, or a crisp green salad.
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be special. I believe it’s all about moments standing by the oven, sipping a little wine, and watching bacon turn perfectly golden while the aroma fills your kitchen. That’s when the magic happens.
So, let’s grab our aprons (and maybe a little extra bacon) and get started on this juicy, flavorful bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin that’ll make any dinner feel like a celebration.
Ingredients
For the pork:
- 1 (1 to 1.5 lb) pork tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
- 10–12 slices of thin-cut bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the glaze (optional):
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil an oven-safe skillet.
Step 2: Season the pork
Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard, minced garlic, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly all over the pork.
Step 3: Wrap with bacon
Lay the bacon slices side by side on a cutting board, slightly overlapping. Place the pork tenderloin at one end and carefully roll it up, tucking the bacon edges underneath as you go. The bacon should cover the pork completely.
Step 4: Sear for flavor
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the wrapped pork for 2–3 minutes per side, until the bacon starts to crisp up and turn golden. This step locks in the flavor and gives a beautiful crust.
Step 5: Roast to perfection
Transfer the seared tenderloin to your prepared baking sheet or skillet. Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Optional glaze
In the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the top with honey and balsamic vinegar for a sweet, glossy finish.
Step 7: Rest and slice
Once cooked, remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps your pork tenderloin incredibly juicy.
Serving Suggestions
This bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is versatile and absolutely delicious served with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
- Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
- A drizzle of honey-mustard sauce or pan gravy
For a Greek-inspired twist, serve it with a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese and of course, a generous drizzle of Cretan olive oil.
Pair it with a glass of white wine or a dry rosé, and you’ve got the perfect cozy dinner.
💛 Recipe Card
🕒 Time:
Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Rest: 10 mins | Total: 55 mins
🧂 Ingredients:
Pork tenderloin, bacon, Dijon mustard, garlic, rosemary, olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rub pork with mustard, garlic, and herbs.
- Wrap in bacon and sear on all sides.
- Roast 20–25 mins until tender.
- Brush with honey glaze and rest before slicing.
💡 Notes:
- Don’t skip resting it keeps the meat juicy.
- Try adding crushed pepper or thyme for extra flavor.
- Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter version.
🍽️ Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 420 | Protein: 38g | Fat: 26g | Carbs: 5g | Sugar: 3g
Conclusion
Cooking this bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin reminds me why I love sharing food it’s simple, joyful, and full of love. The smoky bacon, the tender pork, and the herbs all come together in perfect harmony.
Food doesn’t have to be complicated to be special. It just needs care, good ingredients, and a little creativity. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this dish brings comfort and celebration to any table.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and make this pork tenderloin because every meal deserves a little magic and a lot of love. ❤️
✨ 100-Word Short Story + Recipe
My grandmother in Crete always said pork should be seasoned with love and she was right. This bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin takes her wisdom and adds a delicious twist. I rub the pork with Dijon mustard, garlic, and rosemary, then wrap it in bacon for that irresistible smoky flavor. After searing and roasting, the result is juicy, tender, and beautifully golden. Brush it with a little honey glaze before serving, and you’ve got a meal that’s both comforting and elegant. Perfect for Sunday dinners, holidays, or any night when you want to make something truly special. 🍷