Print

Flavorful Whiskey BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin

whiskey bbq bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin - featured image

A smoky, sweet, and slightly boozy pork tenderloin wrapped in crispy bacon and glazed with a whiskey BBQ sauce, perfect for grilling and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole pork tenderloin, about 1 to 1.5 pounds (450-680g), trimmed of silver skin
  • 68 thick-cut bacon slices
  • 2 tablespoons whiskey (bourbon recommended)
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (smoky sweet preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Instructions

  1. Trim the pork tenderloin by removing any silver skin or excess fat with a sharp knife (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Pat the tenderloin dry with paper towels. Rub the seasoning mix evenly all over the meat. Drizzle with olive oil and rub again to coat fully.
  4. Lay the bacon slices slightly overlapping on a cutting board. Place the seasoned tenderloin on the bacon, then carefully wrap the bacon around it. Secure the ends with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
  5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  6. Place the bacon-wrapped tenderloin on the grill. Cook for about 15 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to get even char on all sides. Watch closely to avoid flare-ups from dripping bacon fat.
  7. Mix whiskey and BBQ sauce in a bowl. Brush the mixture generously over the pork during the last 5 minutes of grilling, turning to coat all sides.
  8. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the tenderloin (avoid touching bacon). Aim for 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare to medium. If not reached, move to indirect heat and cover for a few minutes.
  9. Remove the tenderloin from the grill and wrap loosely in foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes to redistribute juices.
  10. Slice the tenderloin crosswise into medallions. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Turn the tenderloin every 5 minutes to prevent bacon from burning. Apply the whiskey BBQ glaze in the last 5 minutes to avoid burning the sugars. Rest the meat for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. For indoor cooking, use a grill pan and roast at 400°F for 25 minutes, then broil to crisp bacon.

Nutrition

Keywords: whiskey BBQ, bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, grilled pork, smoky pork, easy BBQ recipe, backyard grilling, bourbon pork