There's something incredibly satisfying about mastering the art of grilling, especially when it involves cooking a succulent pork tenderloin wrapped in crispy bacon. This culinary delight not only tantalizes your taste buds but also impresses guests and family alike. In today's comprehensive guide, we'll delve deep into the process of how to cook bacon wrapped pork tenderloin on a gas grill, providing you with essential tips and step-by-step instructions to achieve that perfect, mouthwatering dish.

Why Choose Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin?

Pork tenderloin is a lean, tender cut of meat that's perfect for grilling. When wrapped in bacon, it takes on an extra layer of smoky flavor and juiciness, making it an irresistible choice for any barbecue enthusiast. The bacon not only adds rich taste but also keeps the pork moist during grilling, ensuring a truly delectable result. Plus, the presentation of bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is visually stunning, adding a touch of gourmet flair to your meals.

Ingredients You'll Need

Important Tools: Gas Grill, Knife, Cutting Board

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Cook Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin on a Gas Grill

1. Preparing the Pork Tenderloin

Start by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the pork tenderloin using a sharp knife. Place it on a cutting board for easy handling. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. This mixture will serve as your rub. Generously coat the pork tenderloin with this flavorful rub, ensuring it's evenly covered.

2. Wrapping the Pork with Bacon

Next, lay out the bacon slices on a flat surface, slightly overlapping each piece. Place the seasoned pork tenderloin on top of the bacon. Carefully wrap the bacon around the pork, securing the ends with toothpicks or butcher's twine. This step is crucial as it ensures the bacon remains intact during grilling.

3. Preheating the Gas Grill

Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400F. It's important to get the grill grates nice and hot before placing the pork tenderloin on them; this helps in achieving those beautiful sear marks and prevents sticking. If your gas grill has multiple burners, aim to create a two-zone heating system one area for direct heat and another for indirect heat. This method allows for more controlled cooking. For more tips on optimizing your gas grill, check this guide on how to use a gas grill effectively.

4. Grilling the Pork Tenderloin

Place the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin on the grill over direct heat. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until the bacon is crispy and browned. Once seared, move the tenderloin to the indirect heat area and close the grill lid. Continue grilling for approximately 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145F. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, as overcooking can dry out the pork.

5. Resting and Serving

Once the pork tenderloin reaches the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor. After resting, slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and serve immediately.

Optional: Drizzle a bit of your favorite barbecue sauce for an extra burst of flavor or serve with grilled vegetables for a complete meal. If you're looking for a delicious way to cook vegetables, check out this guide on grilling eggplant.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

Cooking bacon wrapped pork tenderloin on a gas grill can be an enjoyable experience with the right approach. Here are some additional tips to help you achieve perfection:

1. Using Toothpicks

Ensure the toothpicks are soaked in water for 10-15 minutes before using them. This prevents them from burning on the grill and keeps the bacon securely in place.

2. Overlapping Bacon Slices

When wrapping the bacon, ensure the slices overlap slightly to prevent gaps. This not only maintains the structural integrity of the wrap but also enhances the overall flavor.

3. Indirect Heat Cooking

If your grill only has one burner, consider using a heat deflector or drip pan to create an indirect cooking zone. This method helps in evenly cooking the pork tenderloin without charring the bacon excessively. For more details on indirect cooking, explore our recipe on green bean casserole.

4. Basting with Marinade

Periodically baste the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin with your favorite marinade or sauce during grilling. This adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps the meat moist and juicy.

Mouthwatering Sides to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

No meal is complete without delicious side dishes to complement the main course. Here are some mouthwatering options to serve alongside your bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin:

1. Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Slice sweet potatoes into rounds, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill alongside the pork tenderloin until they are tender and have beautiful grill marks. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon and savory pork. For another great grilling recipe, check out this guide on grilling fish.

2. Garlic Butter Green Beans

Saut fresh green beans in garlic butter until they are tender-crisp. The simplicity and freshness of this side dish provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin.

3. Classic Coleslaw

Prepare a classic coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing. The crunch and acidity of coleslaw offer a refreshing and textural balance to your grilled pork dish.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Wrap corn cobs in foil with a pat of butter and grill them until cooked through. The smoky, buttery corn is a delightful addition that complements the hearty pork tenderloin beautifully.

Cleaning Up After the Feast

After indulging in your grilled masterpiece, it's important to properly clean your tools and equipment. Here are some recommended products to make the cleanup process a breeze:

1. Cookware Cleaner

A good cookware cleaner helps in removing grease and burnt-on residues, ensuring your grill grates remain in top-notch condition for future cooking adventures.

2. Cutting Board Oil

Maintaining your cutting board with regular oiling extends its lifespan and keeps it clean and hygienic. Use a food-grade cutting board oil for best results.

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