There are certain dishes that, with surprisingly little effort, deliver an explosion of flavor and a truly impressive presentation. This Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin is precisely one of those recipes! Imagine tender, juicy pork tenderloin, seared to perfection, then coated in a sweet and tangy brown sugar Dijon glaze, and finally, wrapped in crispy, savory bacon. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that feels incredibly gourmet but is deceptively simple to prepare. This dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite for weeknight dinners or even when you want to impress guests.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a revelation for anyone looking to elevate their pork game. What I particularly love about this Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin is the incredible depth of flavor it achieves with such straightforward steps. The initial sear gives the pork a beautiful crust, locking in its juices. Then, that sweet and tangy brown sugar-Dijon glaze creates a caramelized exterior that’s simply divine. And the bacon? Well, crispy bacon always makes everything better! It adds a fantastic layer of smoky, salty crunch that perfectly complements the tender pork.

It’s a fantastic balance of sweet, savory, and smoky, making it incredibly appealing to a wide range of palates. Plus, it’s a relatively quick cook once it’s in the oven, meaning you can have a truly impressive meal on the table in under an hour. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary.

---

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this incredibly flavorful and satisfying pork tenderloin:

• 1 pork tenderloin (approximately 1 lb / 450g)
• 4 bacon strips (thin or regular cut work best)
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Swaps and Notes

• Pork Tenderloin: This recipe is specifically for tenderloin due to its quick cooking time and lean nature. Pork loin is a different cut and would require different cooking times.
• Bacon: Thin or regular-cut bacon works best for crisping around the tenderloin. Thick-cut bacon might need a bit longer to crisp up fully.
• Brown Sugar: Both light and dark brown sugar work. Dark brown sugar will give a slightly deeper molasses flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: Don’t skip the Dijon! It provides a crucial tangy balance to the sweetness of the brown sugar.
• Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic can be used, but garlic powder blends seamlessly into the glaze.
• Seasoning: A pinch of smoked paprika could be added to the glaze for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
• Olive Oil: Any high-heat cooking oil (like avocado or canola) can be used for searing.

---

Preparation:

Creating this flavorful Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for tender, juicy results:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This higher temperature is perfect for both finishing the bake and crisping the bacon.
2. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth, well-combined glaze. Set aside.
3. Sear the Pork Tenderloin: Heat the 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet (like cast iron) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the pork tenderloin to the hot skillet. Sear the pork on all sides until it’s beautifully golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side). This step creates a fantastic crust and locks in moisture.
4. Glaze the Pork: Remove the seared pork tenderloin from the skillet and place it on a clean cutting board or plate. Immediately brush the entire surface of the pork tenderloin generously with the prepared brown sugar Dijon glaze.
5. Wrap with Bacon: Carefully wrap the bacon strips around the glazed pork tenderloin. You might need to overlap them slightly to cover the surface. If necessary, secure the bacon strips with toothpicks to keep them in place during baking.
6. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin to a clean baking sheet (or use the same oven-safe skillet if it’s large enough). Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the tenderloin. The bacon should be crispy and golden.
7. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pork tenderloin from the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial for the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy result. Slice the pork into medallions and serve hot.

---

Pro Tips

• Internal Temperature is Key: Pork tenderloin cooks quickly and can dry out if overcooked. A meat thermometer is your best friend here. 145°F (63°C) is a perfect medium-rare, and it will continue to rise slightly as it rests.
• Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the pork before baking adds a layer of rich flavor and helps create a beautiful crust.
• Pork Tenderloin vs. Loin: Ensure you are using tenderloin, which is a thin, long cut. Pork loin is much larger and would require a significantly longer cooking time.
• Secure Bacon: If your bacon isn’t sticking well, use toothpicks to hold it in place. Just remember to remove them before serving!
• Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting period! It makes a noticeable difference in the juiciness of the meat.

---

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin is the star of the show, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to complete your meal.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes would be fantastic complements.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or a flavorful rice pilaf would be perfect for soaking up any extra glaze.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pork.
• Southern-Inspired Sides: If you’re looking for more comforting, hearty sides, consider my This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage Is My Favorite Quick Dinner Packed with Southern Flavor.
• Other Comfort Foods: For a truly indulgent spread, you might also consider serving it alongside my These Easy Turkey Wings Are My Favorite Comfort Food For Lazy Sundays (though maybe not on the same plate!).

---

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftover pork tenderloin can be delicious, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.

• Storage: Store any leftover cooked pork tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, slice the tenderloin if it isn’t already, and warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water, or in the microwave until just heated through to avoid drying it out.
• Repurpose Leftovers: Sliced leftover pork is fantastic in sandwiches, wraps, or chopped and added to salads.

---

More Recipes You Will Love

If you enjoyed the comforting and flavorful nature of this pork tenderloin, here are a few other fantastic recipes you might want to explore:

• For another incredibly satisfying and easy one-pan meal, check out my This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit.
• If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting dishes that are also easy to make, consider my This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo Is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort.
• And for a fun, customizable meal that’s great for feeding a crowd with minimal fuss, This Walking Taco Bar Is My Favorite No-Fuss Way to Feed a Crowd is always a hit.

---

Final Thoughts

This Bacon Brown Sugar Pork Tenderloin is a recipe that punches well above its weight class. It’s incredibly easy to make, yet delivers a truly memorable meal with its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, and that irresistible crispy bacon crust. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy pork tenderloin and is sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection. Give it a try, and prepare to be delighted!

What’s your go-to method for cooking pork tenderloin? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delicious and easy recipes that bring joy to your kitchen.