Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with Sticky BBQ Glaze

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet or use an oven-safe skillet.
2. Pat the pork tenderloin dry and season all sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Wrap the bacon slices tightly around the pork, slightly overlapping, with the seam side facing down.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped pork for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until the bacon begins to crisp.
5. In a small bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, honey or brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and chili flakes if using.
6. Brush the pork generously with half of the BBQ glaze.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven, or move the pork to the prepared baking sheet.
8. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, brushing once more with glaze halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
9. Remove from the oven, brush with the remaining glaze, and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.

Variations

• Use maple syrup instead of honey for deeper sweetness.
• Add Dijon mustard to the glaze for extra tang.
• Swap pork tenderloin for pork loin and increase cooking time slightly.
• Use spicy barbecue sauce for a bolder heat profile.

Tips

• Thick-cut bacon crisps best and wraps more evenly.
• Do not overcook the pork; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Broil for the final 2 minutes if you want extra caramelization, watching closely.
• Always rest the pork before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.