If you’re looking for a recipe that combines the smoky goodness of bacon with the tender, juicy perfection of pork tenderloin, you’ve come to the right place. This Easy Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is packed with flavor, has just the right balance of sweet and spicy, and is simple enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for company. Fire up that pellet grill, and let’s get cooking!
What is Pork Tenderloin? A Fun History Lesson
Pork tenderloin is one of the most prized cuts of pork, and for good reason. This cut comes from the loin of the pig, specifically the muscle that runs along the backbone. Since it’s a non-weight-bearing muscle, it stays incredibly tender and lean. Unlike the pork loin (which is larger and often cooked as a roast), the tenderloin is smaller, usually weighing about a pound or so, and cooks quickly.
Historically, pork tenderloin has been a favorite for centuries. In fact, it was a delicacy in early European cuisine, especially in Spain and Portugal, where it was often marinated and cooked over open flames. Today, it’s a staple in American barbecue and grilling culture, thanks to its mild flavor and versatility.
The Secret to an Amazing Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
Bacon makes everything better, and this recipe is proof! Wrapping the pork tenderloin in bacon adds incredible moisture and flavor, and when you combine that with a sweet and spicy rub, it takes things to the next level.
Easy Bacon Wrapped Pellet Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Ingredients
- 1 Hormel Pork Tenderloin or your favorite brand
- 1 pack of bacon thin-cut works best for wrapping
- 2 tbsp of your favorite sweet and spicy pork rub popular options include a blend of brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil to help the rub adhere
- Toothpicks or butcher’s twine to secure the bacon
Instructions
- Prep the Pork Tenderloin – Remove the pork tenderloin from the packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better.
- Rub it Down – Lightly coat the pork tenderloin with olive oil. Then, generously apply the sweet and spicy rub all over the meat. We recommend Kosmos Honey Chipotle Killer Bee.
- Wrap in Bacon – Lay out the bacon slices on a cutting board, slightly overlapping each piece. Place the tenderloin on top and wrap the bacon around it. Secure with toothpicks or butcher’s twine.
- Preheat Your Pellet Grill – Set your pellet grill to 275°F. A pellet grill (like this Traeger Pellet Grill or Pit Boss Pellet Grill) infuses the meat with delicious smoky flavor.
- Smoke the Tenderloin – Place the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin on the grill grates. Close the lid and let it smoke for about 90 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Sear for Crispy Bacon – If the bacon isn’t crispy enough, you can crank up the heat to 400°F for the last few minutes, or use a cast iron skillet for a quick sear.
- Rest, Slice, and Serve – Remove the pork tenderloin from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a more flavorful bite.
The Perfect Cooking Temperature for Pork Tenderloin
One of the most common misconceptions about pork is that it needs to be cooked to 165°F like chicken. That’s actually not the case with pork tenderloin!
The USDA recommends cooking pork tenderloin to 145°F with a 3-minute rest time. This means that when you slice into it, the inside might be slightly pink, and that’s completely safe to eat. The pink hue is due to the myoglobin in the meat, and as long as the internal temperature is right, there’s no risk.
Using a reliable meat thermometer is crucial to get the perfect doneness. I highly recommend using a ThermoPro Digital Meat Thermometer or a MEATER+ Wireless Smart Thermometer to ensure your pork is cooked to perfection.
Why Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin is a Must-Try
- Flavor Explosion – The combo of sweet and spicy rub, smoky bacon, and juicy pork is unbeatable.
- Moisture Retention – Bacon locks in moisture, preventing the pork from drying out.
- Impressively Easy – Looks gourmet, but it’s actually simple to make!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use thin-cut bacon so it crisps up nicely without overcooking the pork.
- Secure the bacon well with toothpicks or twine to prevent unraveling.
- Let it rest before slicing so the juices redistribute properly.
- Experiment with different rubs—maple, honey, or even a coffee-based rub can add unique twists.
What to Serve with Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
This dish pairs well with classic BBQ sides like:
- Smoked Mac and Cheese – Creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of smoke.
- Grilled Asparagus – A healthy side with a smoky char.
- Honey Butter Cornbread – A sweet contrast to the savory bacon.
- BBQ Baked Beans – A must-have at any backyard cookout.
Final Thoughts
Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, spicy, and savory. It’s an easy dish to master and is guaranteed to impress at your next BBQ or family dinner. With the right tools—like a quality pellet grill and an accurate meat thermometer—you’ll nail the perfect cook every time.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a pork tenderloin, wrap it in bacon, and get that grill fired up! Happy grilling!