Bacon wrapped smoked pork tenderloin is one of the most delicious and mouthwatering recipes that’s ever graced a grill or smoker. This dish is a true showstopper that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ pro or just starting out on your grilling journey, this recipe is perfect for any level of experience.
When it comes to cooking bacon wrapped smoked pork tenderloins, you want to make sure that you have the right equipment. A pellet smoker is an excellent choice for this recipe, as it provides a consistent heat source that’s easy to control.
You’ll also need a set of BBQ tongs, a sharp knife, a meat thermometer, and some toothpicks. With these tools, you’ll have everything you need to create the perfect smoked pork tenderloin wrapped.
The bacon wrapped smoked pork tenderloin recipe is not only easy to follow but also requires minimal preparation time. The combination of the smoky and sweet flavors from the bacon and the BBQ sauce will tantalize your taste buds, leaving you craving more.
Whether you are grilling for a family gathering or a summer BBQ, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone! Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious bacon-wrapped smoked pork tenderloin.
So, let’s get ready to fire up the smoker and create a truly unforgettable meal. Get ready to become a backyard BBQ hero!
Overview: Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
Whether you’re a beginner or just need a refresher, these bullet points highlight the most essential steps and key information you need to know to make this delicious dish.
- Preheat the pellet smoker to 225°F before starting the recipe
- Mix together brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to create a dry rub
- Trim the pork tenderloin of any silver skin and excess fat, then wrap with bacon and season with the dry rub mixture and BBQ sauce
- Smoke the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin for 2 hours, brushing with BBQ sauce halfway through, until it reaches a final internal temperature of 145°F
What Is Pork Tenderloin?
Pork tenderloin is a long, cylindrical cut of meat that comes from the muscle along the spine of the pig. It is considered one of the most tender cuts of pork, making it a popular choice for grilling, roasting, and smoking. Unlike other cuts such as pork chops or shoulder, pork tenderloin is lean, with very little fat or marbling, which makes it a healthier option for those watching their fat intake.
The tenderloin is located near the backbone of the pig and runs from the shoulder to the loin. It is usually sold whole, but can also be cut into smaller portions for individual servings. This cut of pork is known for its delicate, tender texture and mild flavor, which makes it an excellent choice for a variety of cooking methods.
Pork Tenderloin vs Pork Loin: What’s the Difference?
Pork tenderloin and pork loin are two cuts of pork that are often confused with one another. While they come from the same part of the pig, they are different cuts that are prepared and cooked in different ways.
The pork tenderloin is a long, thin, cylindrical cut of meat that is found near the spine of the pig. It is one of the most tender cuts of pork and is often prized for its delicate texture and mild flavor. Due to its lean composition, it is important to be careful not to overcook the pork tenderloin, as this can cause it to become tough and dry.
Pork loin, on the other hand, is a much larger and thicker cut of meat that comes from the back of the pig. It is a versatile cut that can be roasted, grilled, or braised, and is often used for making pork chops or roasts. Pork loin has a slightly more robust flavor than pork tenderloin, and a little more fat, which helps to keep the meat moist during cooking.
While both pork tenderloin and pork loin are great cuts of meat, they are best prepared and cooked differently due to their distinct textures and flavors like bacon wrapped pork tederloin and bacon wrapped pork loin. When choosing between the two, consider the desired outcome of your dish and choose the appropriate cut accordingly.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Smoked Pork Tenderloin On A Pellet Smoker
Step 1: Preheat Pellet Smoker
The first step in making this delicious bacon wrapped pork tenderloin is to preheat the pellet smoker to 225°F. This temperature is crucial to the success of this recipe as it will ensure that the pork tenderloin is cooked low and slow so that the bacon does not burn.
Step 2: Mix Dry Rub
While the smoker is preheating, mix together the dry rub ingredients. In a large bowl, add brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
The dry rub is a key component of this recipe, as it provides a delicious layer of flavor to the pork tenderloin that will be further enhanced by the smoky flavor from the smoker. The spices and herbs used in this dry rub are commonly used in BBQ recipes and work well together to create a delicious, savory flavor.
Step 3: Prepare Pork Tenderloin
The pork tenderloin is the star of this dish, so it is important to properly prepare it for cooking. Take the pork tenderloin out of the packaging and rinse it under running water. Pat it dry with a clean paper towel. Trim any silver skin and remove any excess fat to ensure a tender and juicy result.
Silver skin is a tough, inedible membrane that runs along the surface of the pork tenderloin. Trimming this off will help to ensure that the pork tenderloin is evenly seasoned and will cook to perfection.
Step 4: Arrange Bacon
On a clean work surface, lay out the bacon in a single layer, with the long edges barely overlapping. Make a rectangle that is 10 to 12 inches long or wide enough to cover the length of the pork tenderloin. This will be the base for wrapping the pork tenderloin.
Step 5: Season and Coat With BBQ SauceStep 5:
Place the pork tenderloin in the center of the bacon rectangle and season both sides of the pork with the dry rub mixture. Make sure to roll the pork over so that the rub is evenly distributed on both sides. Then, brush your choice of BBQ sauce over the pork tenderloin, making sure to cover both sides. We recommend using a sweet BBQ sauce, such as one with a hint of fruit, like apple or peach, or you can try our Honey BBQ Sauce Recipe.
Step 6: Wrap with Bacon
Start with the last strip of bacon you placed down to make the rectangle, wrapping it at an angle to create a weave pattern. Tuck the edges of the bacon in as you go until you reach the end. Use toothpicks to secure the bacon in place.
Step 7: Smoke the Pork Tenderloin
Place the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin in the preheated pellet smoker, which should at 225°F by now. Cook the pork for 1 hour, then brush the bacon-wrapped pork with BBQ sauce and use tongs to flip it over, brushing the other side as well. Smoked for one more hour or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Step 8: Soft Or Crispy Bacon, The Choice Is Yours!
This part is a matter of personal preference. If you like your bacon soft, brush the outside of the pork with BBQ sauce once more when the internal temperature of the pork reaches 130°F and smoke it until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
If you prefer your bacon crispy, take the fully cooked pork tenderloin out at 145°F and broil it in the oven for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Step 9: Rest, Slice, and Serve!
Remove the pork tenderloin from the heat and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier and more flavorful meat when sliced. Don’t forget to remove the toothpicks!
Once the pork tenderloin has rested, use a sharp knife to slice it into desired thickness, either in rounds or medallions. It is best to slice against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes, such as grilled vegetables or a fresh salad, and enjoy the delicious flavors of your bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin!
Tips For Making Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pork
Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or a beginner cook, these tips will help you achieve the perfect result every time. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your pork tenderloin turns out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time.
Use Toothpicks
To secure the bacon to the pork tenderloin, toothpicks are an easy and effective solution. Just be sure to remove them before slicing and serving the meat. This will ensure a smooth and easy slicing process, and it will also prevent any accidents or injuries while cutting or eating.
Make sure the toothpicks are inserted firmly but not too deep, as this may cause the bacon to come undone during cooking.
Season To Taste
The dry rub mixture for this recipe is a basic blend of spices, but feel free to add or adjust any seasonings to suit your personal taste. Experiment with different spices and herbs for a unique flavor profile. Consider using smoky paprika for a bold flavor, or add some cumin for a touch of earthiness. The seasoning is a crucial part of this recipe, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
Don’t Skip The Rest Time!
After cooking, let the pork tenderloin rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier and more flavorful meat when sliced.
Do not skip this step, as it is important for the final outcome of your dish. You can cover the meat with aluminum foil to keep it warm while resting.
Best Beer To Pair With Smoked Bacon Wrapped Pork
Pairing the perfect beer with your delicious bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is a must for any barbecue or dinner party. Not only does a well-selected beer enhance the flavors of the meal, but it also provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and smoky flavors of the pork.
Here are the top 3 types of beer that pair perfectly with this dish, each with its own unique flavor profile and taste.
India Pale Ale (IPA)
IPAs have a bold hop flavor that provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the BBQ sauce and the flavor of salty bacon. The bitterness of the IPA helps cut through the richness of the dish, making it the perfect pairing for smoky and juicy pork tenderloin.
Brown Ale
Brown Ales have a nutty and malty flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the smoky and savory flavors of the pork tenderloin. The sweetness of the ale balances the salty taste of the bacon and the spice of the dry rub, making it a classic pairing that is sure to impress.
Pilsner
Pilsners are light and crisp, with a refreshingly clean flavor that provides a good contrast to the rich and smoky flavor of the pork tenderloin. The carbonation of the Pilsner helps to cleanse the palate and make way for each bite of the flavorful meat. Plus, the light and refreshing quality of the beer helps to keep the focus on the star of the show – the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin!
Related Recipes
- Applewood Smoked Bacon Recipe
- Smoked Pork Rib Chops
- Smoked Pork Brisket
- Smoked Pork Ribs That Make Your Mouth Water
- Smoked pork loin
Bacon Wrapped Smoked Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb pork tenderloin 1 – 1.5 lbs
- 10 oz Bacon
- 2 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp 1 onion powder divided
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sweet BBQ Sauce of choice (Try: Honey BBQ Sauce Recipe)
Instructions
- Preheat the pellet smoker to 225°F.
- Mix together the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Remove the pork tenderloin from the packaging, rinse, and pat dry. Trim any silver skin and remove any excess fat.
- On a clean work surface, arrange the bacon in a single layer, with long edges barely overlapping. Make a 10 to 12” rectangle, long enough to cover the length of your tenderloin.
- Place the tenderloin in the center of the bacon and season both sides with the dry rub mixture, rolling it over to cover it evenly.
- Brush your choice of BBQ sauce over the pork tenderloin, rolling to coat both sides.
- Wrap the bacon slices around the tenderloin. Start with the last bacon strips of bacon you placed down to make the rectangle, wrapping at an angle to create a bacon weave and tucking the edges in until you reach the end. Secure the ends with toothpicks.
- Place the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin in the smoker and cook for 2 hours, brushing with BBQ sauce and flipping halfway through.
- If you like soft bacon, brush the outside with BBQ sauce once more when the pork tenderloin reaches 130°F and smoke until it reaches a final internal temperature of 145°F
- If crispy bacon is more your style, take the fully cooked pork tenderloin out at 145°F and broil it in the oven for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Remove the pork tenderloin and let it rest for 10 minutes. Remove all the toothpicks before slicing and serving hot.
Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin FAQs
What is pork tenderloin?
Pork tenderloin is a long and thin cut of meat from the muscle that runs along the spine of a pig. It is one of the most tender cuts of pork and is known for its mild flavor and tender texture.
How is pork tenderloin different from pork loin?
Pork tenderloin is a different cut of meat from pork loin. Pork tenderloin is a smaller and more tender cut of meat, while pork loin is a larger and less tender cut of meat. Pork loin also has a more robust flavor compared to the mild flavor of pork tenderloin.
Can I use other seasonings besides the ones listed in the recipe?
Yes, you can use other seasonings in place of or in addition to the seasonings listed in the recipe. Some popular seasonings that pair well with pork tenderloin include cumin, coriander, chili powder, and mustard powder.
What type of BBQ sauce is best for this recipe?
The best type of BBQ sauce for this recipe is a sweet BBQ sauce with a hint of fruit, such as apple or peach. However, you can use any type of BBQ sauce that you prefer for classic bbq flavor, such as a spicy or tangy sauce.
Can I make smoke pork tenderloin without a pellet smoker?
Yes, you can make this recipe without using a pellet smoker by using a conventional oven or a grill. Keep in mind that the cooking time and temperature may differ depending on the cooking appliance used.
How do I know when the pork tenderloin is fully cooked?
The pork tenderloin is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. To ensure accurate temperature readings, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the pork tenderloin in several places.
Can I make this recipe with a different type of meat besides pork tenderloin?
Yes, you can wrap any kind of meat you want in bacon! However, cooking times and temperatures may vary based on the type of meat you use.
How do I make the bacon crispy on my smoked bacon-wrapped tenderloin?
The texture of the bacon when it’s done cooking will depend on the cooking method you choose. If you want crispy bacon, you can broil the fully cooked pork tenderloin in the oven for 2-3 minutes before serving.