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Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with Apples and Thyme Sauce is a perfect blend of savory and sweet that will have your taste buds dancing. This easy weeknight dinner showcases juicy pork tenderloin wrapped in crispy bacon and topped with a luscious apple and thyme sauce. It’s visually stunning and packed with flavor, making it an impressive dish that’s simple enough for any home cook to master.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that elevates a classic weeknight meal. The crispy bacon envelops the tender pork, while the sweetness of the apples and the aromatic thyme create a delicious sauce that ties everything together. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory bacon and sweet apples is irresistible.
- Easy to Prepare: Perfect for a weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor.
- Impressive Presentation: A stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
- 8 slices of bacon
- 2 medium apples, diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with Apples
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper.
- Wrap the bacon slices around the pork tenderloin, securing them with toothpicks if necessary.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped tenderloin on all sides until the bacon is crispy, about 4-5 minutes.
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and diced apples. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Return the pork tenderloin to the skillet, spooning some of the apple mixture over the top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven, let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice and serve with the apple and thyme sauce.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork is cooked to the right temperature without drying it out.
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork in a mix of olive oil, garlic, and thyme for a few hours before wrapping it in bacon.
- Let the pork rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite.
Easy Variations
- Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option while still getting that crispy texture.
- Add other fruits like pears or cranberries for a different flavor profile.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the apple mixture.
What to Serve With It
- Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, for a healthy side.
- Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower to soak up the delicious sauce.
- A fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Storage and Reheating
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Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds pork tenderloin
- 8 slices of bacon
- 2 medium apples, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the pork tenderloin generously with salt and pepper.
- Wrap the bacon slices around the pork tenderloin, securing them with toothpicks if necessary.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped tenderloin on all sides until the bacon is crispy, about 4-5 minutes.
- Remove the pork from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and diced apples. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Return the pork tenderloin to the skillet, spooning some of the apple mixture over the top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven, let the pork rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice and serve with the apple and thyme sauce.
Notes: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
