Key Takeaways
- Ingredients Matter: Use quality pork tenderloin and thick-cut bacon to ensure the best flavor and texture in your dish.
- Preparation is Key: Trim the pork and cut it into uniform 1-inch medallions for even cooking, and wrap each medallion tightly with bacon.
- Cooking Methods: Choose from baking, grilling, or pan-searing to achieve delicious results, each offering a unique flavor profile.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure medallions reach an internal temperature of 145°F for optimal juiciness.
- Achieve Crispiness: Broil for extra crispiness when baking and flip occasionally when grilling to ensure even browning of the bacon.
- Enhance Flavor: Consider marinating the pork and using seasoning to elevate the dish, adding depth to the savory bacon and pork combination.
Have you ever craved a dish that’s both impressive and easy to make? Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin medallions might just be your answer. This delicious combination of juicy pork and crispy bacon is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients Needed
Gather the following ingredients for your bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin medallions. This straightforward list ensures a tasty and satisfying dish.
Pork Tenderloin Medallions
- Pork tenderloin: Get one 1.5 to 2-pound pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1-inch medallions. The tenderloin cooks quickly and remains juicy.
Bacon Selection
- Bacon: Use 8 to 10 slices of thick-cut bacon. This type provides a crispy texture and enhances the flavor without overpowering the pork. Look for high-quality bacon for the best results.
- Salt: Use 1 teaspoon of kosher salt to enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Pepper: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper for added warmth.
- Garlic powder: Add ½ teaspoon for a savory kick.
- Olive oil (optional): Drizzle 1 tablespoon to help keep the medallions moist during cooking.
- Herbs (optional): Consider using fresh rosemary or thyme for additional flavor. A few sprigs on top of the medallions can elevate the dish.
Ensure you have these ingredients on hand to create a delicious meal that impresses.
Preparation Steps
Follow these preparation steps to create delicious bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin medallions, ensuring a mouthwatering result.
Slicing the Pork Tenderloin
Start by trimming the pork tenderloin. Remove any silver skin or excess fat for a cleaner cut. Slice the tenderloin into 1-inch medallions. This thickness allows even cooking and easy wrapping with bacon. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure all medallions cook at the same rate.
Wrapping with Bacon
Lay out the bacon strips on a clean surface. Take one medallion and place it at one end of a bacon strip. Wrap the bacon around the medallion, overlapping slightly. Secure it with a toothpick or kitchen twine to hold it in place. Repeat this process for all medallions. Make sure each one is fully covered for maximum flavor.
Marinating (Optional)
Optional marinating enhances flavor. Mix ingredients like olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs in a bowl. Once mixed, coat the wrapped medallions lightly. Place them in a resealable bag or dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step infuses the medallions with added depth when cooked.
Cooking Methods
You can cook bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin medallions using three main methods: oven-baking, grilling, and pan-searing. Each method provides a distinct flavor and texture, enabling you to choose based on your preference.
Oven-Baking
Oven-baking offers a simple yet effective way to achieve juicy medallions with crispy bacon.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Place the bacon-wrapped medallions on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
This method evenly cooks the medallions and allows the bacon to render its fat, enhancing the overall flavor.
Grilling
Grilling imparts a smoky flavor that elevates the taste of your medallions.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C).
- Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Place the bacon-wrapped medallions directly on the grill.
- Grill each side for 4-6 minutes, flipping carefully until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Grilling adds delicious char marks and enhances the savory profiles of the pork and bacon.
Pan-Searing
Pan-searing delivers a delightful crust and retains moisture in the medallions.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil.
- Once the oil shimmers, place the medallions in the skillet, ensuring they don’t overcrowd.
- Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the pork to cook through.
This technique creates a flavorful crust while keeping the interior tender and juicy.
Each method can yield mouthwatering results. Select the one that best fits your cooking style and enjoy the savory combination of bacon and pork.
Tips for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin Medallions
These tips ensure your bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin medallions turn out perfectly every time.
Achieving the Right Temperature
Monitor the internal temperature of your medallions. Use a meat thermometer to check the center; it should reach 145°F for juicy, tender pork. If using the oven method, consider cooking at 400°F until the desired temperature is reached. For grilling, keep heat at medium-high, ensuring even cooking.
Ensuring Crispiness
Achieve crispy bacon by ensuring two factors: sufficient cooking time and bacon placement. Arrange bacon tightly around the medallions but don’t overlap excessively; this allows heat to circulate. Broil for the last few minutes if baking, to enhance crispiness. If grilling, flip occasionally for even browning.
Flavor Enhancements
Improve flavor with simple enhancements. Season the pork generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder before wrapping with bacon. Consider marinating the pork for 30 minutes to a few hours in an olive oil-based marinade, adding fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor. Use fresh rosemary or thyme for a savory touch that complements the dish beautifully.
Conclusion
Cooking bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin medallions is a delightful way to impress your family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients and cooking methods to choose from, you can create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Whether you opt for the oven, grill, or skillet, each method brings its own unique twist to the meal. Don’t forget to monitor the internal temperature and season generously for the best results.
So go ahead and give this recipe a try. You’ll love the combination of juicy pork and crispy bacon, and your taste buds will thank you. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need for bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin medallions?
To make bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin medallions, you’ll need a 1.5 to 2-pound pork tenderloin (cut into 1-inch medallions), 8 to 10 slices of thick-cut bacon, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and optional ingredients like olive oil and fresh herbs.
How do I prepare the pork tenderloin medallions?
Start by slicing the pork tenderloin into 1-inch medallions. Trim away any silver skin or excess fat. Wrap each medallion with bacon, ensuring a tight fit. For added flavor, consider marinating the medallions before cooking.
What are the cooking methods for this recipe?
You can cook bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin medallions using three methods: oven-baking (bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes), grilling (cook on medium-high heat for 4-6 minutes per side), or pan-searing (cook 3-4 minutes per side in a hot skillet, then cover).
How do I ensure the medallions are cooked perfectly?
To ensure perfect results, monitor the internal temperature of the medallions, aiming for 145°F for juicy pork. Look for even heat distribution and arrange the bacon tightly around the medallions for optimal crispiness.
Any tips for enhancing flavor in this dish?
Enhance flavor by generously seasoning the pork with kosher salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Consider marinating the medallions with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to add depth to the dish.
