Pork tenderloin, a lean and tender cut of pork, is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in various ways. When wrapped in bacon and cooked in an air fryer, it transforms into a delectable dish that combines the savory flavors of pork and bacon. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and recipe variations to help you master the art of cooking bacon-wrapped pork filet in an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork tenderloin
- 8-10 slices of bacon
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Equipment
- Air fryer
Instructions
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Prepare the Pork Tenderloin: Remove the pork tenderloin from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help it cook more evenly.
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Season the Pork: In a small bowl, combine the rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the pork tenderloin.
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Wrap the Pork in Bacon: Wrap each slice of bacon around the pork tenderloin, slightly overlapping the edges. Secure the bacon with toothpicks.
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
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Cook the Pork: Place the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket and cook for 5 minutes. Then, flip the pork over and cook for an additional 4-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius) when measured with a meat thermometer.
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Let the Pork Rest: Remove the pork from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork.
Recipe Variations
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BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin: Brush the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin with BBQ sauce before cooking.
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Honey Garlic Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin: In a small bowl, combine honey, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Brush the mixture over the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin before cooking.
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Apple Cider Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin: In a small bowl, combine apple cider, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Brush the mixture over the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin before cooking.
Cooking Tips
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Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure that the pork is cooked to the desired doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can prevent the pork from cooking evenly.
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Flip the Pork Halfway Through Cooking: Flipping the pork halfway through the cooking time will ensure that it cooks evenly on both sides.
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Let the Pork Rest: Allowing the pork to rest before slicing and serving will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful pork.
Serving Suggestions
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy and colorful touch to the meal.
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Apple Sauce: Applesauce provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory flavors of the pork and bacon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to wrap the bacon around the pork tenderloin?
A: To ensure that the bacon stays in place during cooking, wrap each slice of bacon around the pork tenderloin, slightly overlapping the edges. Secure the bacon with toothpicks.
Q: How long do I cook bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin in the air fryer?
A: Cook the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin in the air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) for 5 minutes. Then, flip the pork over and cook for an additional 4-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius).
Q: Can I use other seasonings on the pork tenderloin?
A: Yes, you can use any seasonings that you like. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or chili powder.
Q: What is the best way to serve bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin?
A: Bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or apple sauce.
Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin by Chef Eric
FAQ
How to cook kwik trip bacon wrapped pork filet in air fryer?
What’s the difference between pork tenderloin and pork filet?
Do you have to flip bacon when air frying?
How long do you cook bacon wrapped sirloin in the air fryer?