Why You’ll Love this Sweet Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Why will you love this Sweet Pork Tenderloin recipe? Let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! This dish brings together the succulent flavor of pork, the smoky richness of bacon, and the sweetness of apricot preserves for a truly irresistible combination.
I can’t get enough of how easy it’s to prepare. Just wrap the tenderloin in bacon, toss it in the oven, and let it do its magic. The aroma fills my kitchen, and I always find myself enthusiastically anticipating that first bite.
It’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions, and trust me, your guests will rave about it. Once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Ingredients of Sweet Pork Tenderloin
When it comes to whipping up a scrumptious meal, the ingredients can make all the difference, and this Sweet Pork Tenderloin recipe is no exception. You’re going to need some key players that not only bring flavor but also a little bit of magic to the table.
Trust me, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that mouthwatering dish everyone will be talking about long after the last bite. So, let’s break it down and see what you’ll need to get started.
Here’s what you’ll need for the Sweet Pork Tenderloin:
- 2 lbs pork tenderloin
- 1/2 lb bacon, sliced thin
- 1 large onion, sliced thin
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 12 – 16 ounces apricot preserves
Now, let’s talk a bit more about these ingredients. The pork tenderloin is the star of the show, so you’ll want to pick a nice one—go for a cut that’s bright pink without any dark spots.
The bacon? Well, you can never go wrong with bacon, right? It adds this incredible smokiness that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the apricot preserves.
And speaking of sweetness, those preserves are what really elevate this dish from good to great. You can even experiment with different fruit preserves if you’re feeling adventurous, like peach or mango, for a fun twist.
Just remember, the onions are there to add a savory depth, so don’t skip them. They’ll cook down beautifully and create such a lovely base for the tenderloin.
Happy cooking!
How to Make Sweet Pork Tenderloin
Making Sweet Pork Tenderloin is easier than you might think, and the results? Well, they’ll have your family and friends raving. So, grab your 2 lbs of pork tenderloin and let’s explore the deliciousness.
First, you’ll want to wrap that tenderloin in the 1/2 lb of thinly sliced bacon. Now, I can’t help but think that bacon is like a cozy blanket for the pork, keeping it juicy and adding that irresistible flavor. It might get a little messy, but that’s all part of the fun, right? Just make sure the bacon is snug, and if any pieces fall off, it’s no biggie—more bacon for you to nibble on later.
Next comes the layer of onions. Grab your large onion, slice it thin, and spread those slices evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish. This is where the magic happens—those onions will soften and caramelize while the pork cooks, creating a savory base that complements the sweetness of the apricot preserves.
Speaking of which, in a separate bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of soy sauce with 12 to 16 ounces of apricot preserves. It’s a simple combination, but oh boy, does it pack a flavor punch! Once that’s ready, pour it over the wrapped tenderloin. Don’t be shy, let that sauce soak in.
Finally, pop the dish into a preheated oven at 350°F and let it bake for 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F. Just keep an eye on it, and maybe sneak a taste of the sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.
Once it’s out of the oven and resting, slice that beautifully glazed tenderloin and serve it over a fluffy bed of white rice. I promise, the combination of savory, sweet, and a bit of smokiness will make each bite a little piece of heaven.
And don’t forget to sprinkle those delicious onions on top for an extra punch of flavor. So, there you have it—a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress. Just remember, cooking should be fun, so don’t stress if things get a little chaotic. After all, that’s what makes home-cooked meals so special, right? Enjoy!
Sweet Pork Tenderloin Substitutions & Variations
While the classic bacon-wrapped sweet pork tenderloin is a crowd-pleaser, it’s fun to experiment with substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For a healthier twist, consider using turkey bacon instead of pork bacon; it still adds great flavor without the extra fat. You can also switch out the apricot preserves for peach or pineapple to create a different fruity profile.
If you’re looking for a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the soy sauce mixture. For a vegetarian option, try marinating and roasting eggplant or portobello mushrooms in the same sauce.
These variations keep the dish exciting and cater to everyone at the table! Enjoy customizing your sweet pork tenderloin.
What to Serve with Sweet Pork Tenderloin
To elevate your bacon-wrapped sweet pork tenderloin, consider serving it alongside a bed of fluffy white rice, which absorbs the delicious juices from the dish.
I also love pairing it with roasted vegetables like carrots and green beans; their natural sweetness complements the pork perfectly.
A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the bacon.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes can provide a comforting side that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Finally, don’t forget to offer some warm, crusty bread to mop up any remaining juices on your plate.
These sides transform the meal into a delightful feast that everyone will enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing your bacon-wrapped sweet pork tenderloin, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind for the best results.
First, make sure your bacon is thinly sliced; this helps it cook evenly and wrap better around the tenderloin. I recommend letting the tenderloin marinate in the soy sauce and apricot mixture for at least an hour before cooking to enhance the flavor.
Don’t skip the onions; they add great moisture and depth to the dish. Keep an eye on your cooking time, as ovens can vary.
Finally, let the meat rest for about 10 minutes after baking before slicing. This step helps retain the juices, making every bite deliciously tender.
Enjoy your meal!