Cooking the perfect bacon wrapped pork tenderloin on a gas grill is an incredible skill that can elevate your BBQ game to the next level. Whether you’re a kitchen professional or a novice griller, there are key techniques and tips to ensure you achieve a mouthwatering result every single time. This guide dives deep into all aspects of how to cook bacon wrapped pork tenderloin on gas grill, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to impress your guests. From preparation to grilling and flavoring, this is your go-to resource.
Why Choose Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin?
Pork tenderloin is a lean, tender cut of meat thats just begging to be grilled. Wrapping it in bacon not only adds fantastic flavor but also helps keep the meat moist and juicy. The fat from the bacon melts and bastes the pork while cooking, enhancing its natural flavors and ensuring a succulent end product. When you cook bacon wrapped pork tenderloin on a gas grill, you combine the smoky, charred flavors from the grill with the sumptuous flavors of pork and bacon – a match made in grill heaven.
Ingredients Youll Need
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you will need for this delightful dish:
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Ingredients:
– 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
– 8-10 slices of bacon
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 3 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional)
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Essential Tools for Success
For this recipe, having the right tools at your disposal can make a significant difference. Here are the must-have items:
– A reliable gas grill makes all the difference in cooking evenly and achieving that beautiful smoky flavor.- A good quality knife for precise cutting and trimming.- Cutting board for safely preparing and seasoning your tenderloin.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients and tools, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step process of cooking bacon wrapped pork tenderloin on a gas grill.
Step 1: Preparing the Tenderloin
Start by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the pork tenderloin using a sharp knife. This ensures an even cook and better texture. Once trimmed, pat the tenderloin dry with paper towels to prepare it for seasoning.
Step 2: Seasoning
Rub the pork tenderloin with olive oil, ensuring it’s evenly coated. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Rub this mixture all over the tenderloin to impart deep flavor. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 3: Wrapping with Bacon
Lay out the bacon slices on a cutting board, slightly overlapping them. Place the seasoned tenderloin on one end of the bacon and begin rolling it up, ensuring the bacon wraps tightly around the pork. Secure the wrapped tenderloin with toothpicks to keep the bacon in place during grilling.
Step 4: Prepping the Grill
Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat (about 375F to 400F). While it heats up, oil the grates to prevent the bacon from sticking. You can do this by using a grill brush or a folded paper towel dipped in oil, held with tongs.
Step 5: Grilling the Tenderloin
Place the bacon wrapped pork tenderloin on the grill. Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes, turning to ensure even cooking and a crispy bacon wrap. Use tongs to carefully turn the meat, avoiding puncturing the bacon and losing those precious juices. Continuously monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The target internal temperature should reach 145F for perfectly cooked pork tenderloin.
Step 6: Resting and Serving
Once the tenderloin reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful result. Slice the tenderloin into medallions and serve with your favorite sides. Consider pairing it with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic mashed potatoes.
Additional Tips for Perfect Results
Whether youre an experienced griller or a beginner, these additional tips can help you master cooking bacon wrapped pork tenderloin on a gas grill:
– Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensuring your pork reaches the right internal temperature is key to avoiding undercooked or overcooked meat. A reliable meat thermometer can make all the difference.- Let the Meat Rest: Patience is key. Allowing the meat to rest after cooking seals in the juices and enhances the tenderness.- Consider Marinating: For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating your pork tenderloin overnight before wrapping it in bacon. Assorted marinades like teriyaki, balsamic, or honey mustard can introduce unique flavors.- Experiment with Wood Chips: If you’re looking to create a smokier flavor, consider using wood chips in your grill. Applewood or hickory chips are excellent choices that pair well with pork.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to side dishes, the options are plentiful. Here are some of our favorite pairings that complement the rich flavors of bacon wrapped pork tenderloin:
Grilled Vegetables
A colorful medley of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus can provide a perfect balance and add a touch of freshness to your plate. Lightly toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill until tender with a slight char.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and decadent garlic mashed potatoes can be a comforting side dish that pairs well with the savory bacon and tender pork. Ensure to infuse your mashed potatoes with a good amount of butter and roasted garlic for that extra flavor punch.
Caesar Salad
A fresh Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a robust Caesar dressing can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the pork tenderloin. The tangy and creamy dressing enhances the meats flavors.
Cleaning Up
Cooking on a gas grill can result in a delicious meal, but it also generates a fair bit of cleanup. Here are some tips to make the cleanup process easier:
– Cookware cleaner: A good grill cleaner can help remove the burnt-on residue and keep your grill looking like new.- Cutting board conditioner: Keeping your cutting board in top shape ensures it remains hygienic and serves you well for future cooking adventures.
For more grilling inspirations and tips, check out these resources:
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