How to Make Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Pork Filet

Wrapping lean and tender pork filet in bacon is a simple way to add tons of flavor The crispy, salty bacon complements the mild pork beautifully While you can cook it in a skillet, baking it in the oven ensures even cooking and is easy to get just right.

Follow this guide to learn how to cook restaurant-worthy bacon-wrapped pork filet at home.

Benefits of Cooking It in the Oven

There are a few advantages to using the oven rather than pan-frying:

• Evenly cooks the pork all the way through. No raw centers.

• Bacon cooks up crispy on all sides, not just the bottom

• Allows you to cook multiple filets at once easily.

• Less risk of burning compared to a skillet

• Easy to get the doneness just right.

• Minimal work once it’s in the oven.

With minimal effort, the oven gives amazing results every time.

Ingredients Needed

To make this delicious dish, you only need a few simple ingredients:

• Pork tenderloin filets, 1-2 lbs

• Bacon, about 8-12 slices

• Seasonings:

  • Garlic powder

  • Onion powder

  • Dried thyme

  • Salt

  • Pepper

• Butter and olive oil for cooking

That’s it! The flavor pairing is so good, you don’t need much else.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps for perfect bacon-wrapped pork filet:

1. Prepare the Pork Filet

Rinse the pork tenderloin and pat dry. Trim off any excess fat or silver skin. Cut the tenderloin into 1-inch thick medallions.

Season the pork filets on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the spices into the meat.

2. Wrap Bacon Around the Pork

Lay out bacon strips on a plate. They should be room temperature and pliable.

Wrap each seasoned pork medallion completely with a slice of bacon. Secure the bacon in place by spearing with a toothpick or two.

3. Preheat Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

In an oven-safe skillet, melt 1-2 tbsp each of butter and olive oil over medium-high heat.

4. Brown the Pork Filets

When the skillet is hot, carefully place the bacon-wrapped pork medallions in the pan. Don’t crowd them.

Sear on both sides until the bacon is lightly browned, about 2 minutes per side.

5. Finish Cooking in the Oven

Transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Remove the pan from the oven. Let the pork filets rest for 5 minutes before serving.

6. Carve and Serve

Remove the toothpicks from the bacon-wrapped pork medallions. Slice into 1/2-inch pieces and serve warm.

Pair it with roasted veggies, potatoes, or salad for a easy yet impressive dinner.

Cooking Tips

• Use thick, good quality bacon so it gets nice and crispy. Regular sliced bacon works too.

• If the bacon won’t stay wrapped, secure it by skewering with toothpicks.

• Add minced garlic to the melted butter and oil for extra flavor.

• Roasting on a rack over a baking sheet prevents sticking and allows air circulation.

• Cook 2-3 bacon-wrapped filets per person. They shrink as they cook.

• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Pork should reach 145°F.

• Let rest 5 minutes before slicing for juicier meat.

Useful Utensils

Having the right kitchen tools helps make cooking bacon-wrapped pork filet a breeze:

• Oven-safe skillet for searing on the stovetop then roasting.

• Instant-read thermometer to check internal temperature.

• Toothpicks to hold the bacon in place during cooking.

• Sharp butcher’s knife to cleanly slice the cooked pork.

• Baking sheet lined with foil or a rack to prevent sticking.

• Spatula and tongs for handling the pork.

• Mixing bowls for the pork seasoning and bacon.

Any home cook likely has these kitchen staples on hand already!

Common Questions

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about cooking bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin filets:

What cut of pork works best?

Pork tenderloin filets are ideal. The tenderloin is very lean so it stays juicy and tender.

What temperature should the pork reach?

Cook until the internal temperature hits 145°F. This ensures it’s fully cooked.

How long does it take to cook?

Around 15-20 minutes in a 400°F oven. Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.

Can you use turkey bacon instead?

Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon. Just watch closely as it may cook faster than pork bacon.

How do you keep the bacon from sticking?

Cooking on a rack over a baking sheet instead of directly in the pan prevents sticking.

Can you freeze and reheat it after cooking?

Cooked bacon-wrapped pork filet freezes well for 2-3 months. Reheat gently before serving.

Can you cook it on the grill instead?

Yes, it works well cooked over direct medium grill heat, turning occasionally until done.

What sides go well with it?

Roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Fun Flavor Variations

Plain pork and bacon is delicious, but you can also kick up the flavor in lots of ways:

• Apple and Sage – Sauté chopped apples and sage in the skillet before browning pork.

• Southwestern – Use chili powder, cumin, garlic, and cayenne on the pork. Top with avocado.

• Mediterranean – Season pork with lemon, oregano, parsley, and feta cheese.

• Teriyaki – Brush teriyaki sauce on the pork before roasting.

• BBQ – Smother the bacon-wrapped pork in your favorite barbecue sauce before serving.

• Holiday – Use rosemary and cranberries or oranges for a seasonal twist.

Let your imagination run wild with different herb and spice combinations!

Cooking the Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Pork

With its salty and savory bacon paired with tender pork, this dish always satisfies. Preparing it at home is simple and the oven results are flawless every time.

Hopefully this guide has provided all the instructions you need to make this elegant yet easy dinner. Impress your family and friends with your culinary skills by serving up some mouthwatering oven-roasted bacon-wrapped pork filet. Just be prepared for all the recipe requests!