Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
Looking for a recipe that’s simple, impressive, and full of flavor? This Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is the perfect choice. Juicy pork tenderloin is coated in a savory pesto butter marinade, then wrapped in smoky bacon and baked until golden and crispy. The result is tender, flavorful meat that looks and tastes like a restaurant-style dish, but it’s easy to prepare in your own kitchen.This recipe works beautifully for a cozy weeknight dinner, a festive holiday table, or any special occasion. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create a dish that feels elegant yet effortless.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bacon – fresh high-quality for the best crispy texture
- 2 pork tenderloins about ¾–1 lb each, trimmed of fat and silver skin
- 2 tbsp pesto homemade or store-bought
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter ½ stick, melted
- ½ tsp lemon pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp dried garlic
- ½ tsp dried onion
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Place the pork tenderloins on a cutting board and make shallow cuts along the length to help the seasoning absorb.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix melted butter, pesto, lemon pepper, paprika, salt, dried garlic, and dried onion until smooth.
- Season the Meat: Rub the mixture evenly over the pork, coating all sides.
- Wrap with Bacon: On parchment paper, arrange bacon slices slightly overlapping. Place the seasoned pork in the center and carefully wrap the bacon around the tenderloins.
- Bake Covered: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap bacon-covered pork loosely in foil, sealing the edges. Place on a baking sheet or roasting pan and bake for 30 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove foil, increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C), and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, until bacon is golden and crispy.
- Optional Crisping: Broil on high for 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Rest & Serve: Let the pork rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Cut into medallions and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
Approximate breakdown for the whole recipe (serves 6):
Per Serving (6 servings): ~525 calories
- Pork tenderloin (2 x 1 lb): ~1,360 calories
- Bacon (8 oz): ~1,220 calories
- Butter (4 tbsp): ~400 calories
- Pesto (2 tbsp): ~160 calories
- Spices: ~20 calories (negligible)
Per Serving (6 servings): ~525 calories
*Nutrition info is a rough estimate based on the ingredients. Note that values may vary from case to case.
*As with all recipes, there is a number of ways you can get things done. If you believe that some of the instructions can be improved, or have a good alternative solution, feel free to leave a comment.
