Description
Sizzling Cajun flavors dance through “Apricot Glazed Bacon Wrapped Cajun Pork Tenderloin,” creating a mouthwatering symphony of sweet and spicy notes. Juicy pork infused with bold Cajun spices and caramelized apricot glaze promises a culinary adventure that leaves you craving more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pork tenderloin (about 1–1.5 lbs)
- 8–10 bacon slices (enough to wrap the tenderloin)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- ¼ cup apricot preserves
- 2 tbsps Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preparation: Warm the oven to 400F (200C), arranging a foil-lined baking sheet with a wire rack for optimal bacon crisping.
- Seasoning: Thoroughly dry the pork tenderloin and massage generously with Cajun spice blend, ensuring complete coverage.
- Bacon Wrapping: Create a woven bacon blanket on the cutting board, carefully enveloping the seasoned tenderloin, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Searing and Glazing: Quickly sear the wrapped tenderloin in a hot oven-safe skillet to develop rich caramelization, then craft a vibrant glaze by whisking apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, honey, vinegar, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth and glossy.
- Roasting: Transfer the meat to the prepared baking sheet, liberally brush with the apricot glaze, and roast for 25-30 minutes, periodically reapplying glaze and monitoring internal temperature until it reaches 145F (63C).
- Finishing: Activate the broiler for 2-3 minutes to achieve an irresistibly crisp, caramelized exterior, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serving: Allow the tenderloin to rest for 5 minutes, slice artfully, and drizzle with remaining glaze for a stunning presentation.
Notes
- Overlap bacon slices slightly to ensure complete pork coverage and prevent gaps during wrapping.
- Use a meat thermometer to accurately check internal pork temperature, avoiding overcooking which can dry out the tenderloin.
- Apply glaze generously and repeatedly during baking to create a rich, caramelized exterior and lock in moisture.
- Watch carefully during broiling phase to achieve crispy bacon without burning, as it can quickly turn from golden to charred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 7
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg