Irresistible Maple & Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin: Your Go-To Grilling Delight
There are few things as satisfying as the sizzle of bacon on the grill, especially when it’s wrapped around a succulent pork tenderloin. This recipe for **Maple & Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin** isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It combines the smoky, crispy perfection of bacon with the tender, juicy lean cut of pork, all elevated by a sweet and savory glaze. This isn’t just any pork tenderloin; it’s marinated in a delightful blend of brown sugar and maple syrup, creating a caramelized crust that locks in flavor and moisture, making every bite unforgettable. If you’re looking for an easy-to-make dish that delivers gourmet taste with minimal effort, you’ve found your next favorite.
Grilling transforms simple ingredients into something truly special, and this pork tenderloin is a prime example. The high heat of the barbecue renders the bacon beautifully crisp, while its rendered fat bastes the pork, infusing it with incredible flavor. The maple and brown sugar glaze melts and caramelizes, forming a sticky, glistening coating that adds an irresistible sweetness to contrast the savory pork and bacon. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Best of all, this impressive dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a fantastic centerpiece for your next backyard gathering.
Maple & brown sugar bacon wrapped pork tenderloin
Ingredients
- 1 pork tenderloin, depending on how many you’re feeding, feel free to cook more than 1
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp light maple syrup
- 8-10 slices low point bacon, such as Oscar Mayer center cut (check packaging for specific point values if tracking)
Instructions
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Preheat your barbecue grill to medium heat. Ensure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
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In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and maple syrup. Stir thoroughly until the sugar is well dissolved and you have a smooth, luscious glaze.
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Place the pork tenderloin on a clean surface. Using a pastry brush, liberally coat the entire surface of the tenderloin with approximately half of the prepared maple brown sugar mixture. This initial layer will begin to tenderize and flavor the pork.
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Starting from one end, tightly wrap the uncooked bacon slices around the entire pork tenderloin. Overlap the bacon slightly as you go to ensure full coverage. Tuck the ends of the bacon underneath the tenderloin as much as possible to help them stay in place during grilling.
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Once wrapped, use the pastry brush again to cover the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin generously with the remaining maple brown sugar mixture. This will create a beautiful, caramelized crust.
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Carefully place the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin on the preheated grill. Cook, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and browning of the bacon, for approximately 20-25 minutes. The bacon should be nicely cooked and crispy, and the internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer at the thickest part. Remove from grill and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Remember, approximately 2 ounces of pork will be around 3 Weight Watchers SmartPoints or PersonalPoints. The addition of sugar and syrup contributes to the point value.
Additional Info
This delightful dish is not just about the incredible taste; it’s also remarkably simple to prepare, making it a fantastic option for both experienced cooks and those new to grilling. Pork tenderloin is a lean and versatile cut of meat, prized for its tenderness and quick cooking time. When paired with the rich, salty flavor of bacon and the comforting sweetness of maple syrup and brown sugar, it creates a symphony of flavors that truly sings on your palate.
Why This Recipe for Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin Stands Out
The magic of this recipe lies in the perfect balance of its components. The bacon does more than just add a delicious crunch; as it cooks, its fat renders down, moistening the pork and adding a deep, smoky undertone. This natural basting helps keep the pork incredibly tender and prevents it from drying out on the grill. The maple and brown sugar glaze is the secret weapon, creating a sticky, sweet crust that caramelizes beautifully under the grill’s heat, forming a mouth-watering exterior that contrasts wonderfully with the juicy interior.
Choosing Your Ingredients Wisely
For the best results, start with a good quality pork tenderloin. Look for one that’s uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking. When it comes to bacon, while any bacon will add flavor, a center-cut or thinner slice bacon works best for wrapping and achieving that desired crispiness without becoming too greasy. The original recipe mentions “low point bacon” (like Oscar Mayer center cut, where 2 slices equal 1 Weight Watchers PersonalPoint), which is a great option if you’re mindful of your nutritional intake. Light maple syrup is preferred for its pure flavor that enhances, rather than overwhelms, the other ingredients.
Tips for Grilling Perfection
- **Pre-Grill Prep:** Before wrapping, trim any silverskin from the pork tenderloin. This thin, silvery membrane can become tough when cooked. A sharp knife can easily remove it.
- **Tight Bacon Wrap:** Ensure your bacon is wrapped tightly around the pork. This helps it adhere and cook evenly. You can secure the ends with toothpicks if needed, but usually, tucking them underneath is sufficient.
- **Even Glaze Application:** Use a pastry brush to apply the maple brown sugar glaze generously. Don’t be shy! The more even the coating, the better the caramelization.
- **Monitor Grill Temperature:** Medium heat is key. Too high, and the bacon will burn before the pork cooks through. Too low, and the bacon won’t crisp up.
- **Turn Frequently:** Rotate the tenderloin often during grilling to ensure all sides of the bacon crisp up and the pork cooks evenly.
- **Internal Temperature is Crucial:** Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Pork tenderloin is safely cooked at 145°F (63°C). Pull it off the grill when it reaches this temperature.
- **Resting Period:** Once cooked, let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist final product.
Beyond the Grill: Alternative Cooking Methods
While grilling imparts a unique smoky flavor and beautiful char, this bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin can also be prepared using other methods if you don’t have a grill or prefer indoor cooking:
- **Oven Roasting:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the wrapped tenderloin on a baking sheet fitted with a wire rack. Roast for 25-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), turning halfway. You might want to finish it under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp up the bacon.
- **Pan-Searing then Roasting:** Sear the bacon-wrapped tenderloin in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until the bacon is browned. Then transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- **Air Fryer:** For a smaller tenderloin or if you cut it into medallions, an air fryer can work wonders. Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until bacon is crisp and pork is cooked.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This Maple & Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is a star on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes to create a complete and satisfying meal:
- **Roasted Vegetables:** Asparagus, green beans, Brussels sprouts, or a medley of root vegetables complement the rich flavors.
- **Creamy Sides:** Mashed potatoes, sweet potato puree, or polenta provide a comforting contrast.
- **Grains:** Wild rice, quinoa, or couscous can absorb some of the delicious glaze.
- **Fresh Salads:** A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance.
- **Apple Sauce or Chutney:** The sweetness of apple or cranberry chutney can highlight the maple and brown sugar notes in the pork.
Variations to Explore
While this recipe is fantastic as written, feel free to experiment with these delicious variations:
- **Spicy Kick:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the maple-brown sugar glaze for a subtle heat.
- **Herb Infusion:** Before wrapping the bacon, rub the pork tenderloin with some garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme or rosemary.
- **Mustard Glaze:** Incorporate a teaspoon of Dijon mustard into the maple brown sugar mix for a tangy twist.
- **Smoked Paprika:** A touch of smoked paprika can deepen the smoky flavor and add a beautiful color.
- **Different Sweeteners:** While maple syrup and brown sugar are classic, you could try honey for a slightly different sweet profile.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Pork Recipe
This Maple & Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary triumph that’s deceptively easy to achieve. With its tender pork, crispy bacon, and glistening sweet-and-savory glaze, it offers a flavor profile that appeals to everyone. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, preparing a special family dinner, or simply treating yourself to something delicious, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Its quick prep and cook time mean you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the incredible taste of this truly irresistible dish!