Mastering the Art: How to Cook Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin in an Air Fryer
Cooking bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin in an air fryer is a delicious and convenient way to prepare this mouthwatering dish. Whether you are a novice cook or an experienced chef, this article will guide you through the process of mastering the art of cooking bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin in an air fryer. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques – just a few simple steps and you’ll have a tender and flavorful pork dish that will impress your family and friends.
Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before you start cooking, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. For this recipe, you will need:
– 1 pork tenderloin (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
– 6-8 slices of bacon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Cooking twine (optional but recommended)
– Air fryer
Prepare the Pork Tenderloin
The first step in cooking bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is to prepare the meat. Start by removing any excess fat or silver skin from the tenderloin using a sharp knife. This will ensure that the pork cooks evenly and results in a tender texture.
Once the tenderloin is prepared, season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. These spices will add a delicious flavor to the pork. Rub the seasonings all over the tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly.
Wrap the Tenderloin with Bacon
Now comes the fun part – wrapping the pork tenderloin with bacon! Take the slices of bacon and wrap them tightly around the seasoned pork. Make sure each slice slightly overlaps the previous one, so the bacon holds together during cooking.
If you want to secure the bacon in place, you can use cooking twine. Simply tie the twine around the bacon-wrapped tenderloin at one-inch intervals. This step is optional but recommended, as it helps the bacon stay in position and ensures an evenly cooked dish.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. Once it reaches the desired temperature, place the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space around the tenderloin for proper air circulation.
Cook the pork for about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the tenderloin. Flip the tenderloin halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides.
The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C) for a medium cook. If you prefer your pork more well-done, cook it for a few minutes longer until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). It’s crucial to use a meat thermometer to check the pork’s internal temperature accurately.
Resting and Serving
Once the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin is done cooking, it’s essential to let it rest for a few minutes. Carefully remove the tenderloin from the air fryer and place it on a cutting board. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least five minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a succulent and tender pork dish.
After the resting period, it’s time to slice and serve the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin. Use a sharp knife to cut the tenderloin into medallions, about one inch thick. Serve it with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, to complete the meal.
Tips and Variations
– For extra flavor, marinate the pork tenderloin in your favorite marinade for a few hours or overnight before seasoning and wrapping it with bacon.
– Experiment with different seasonings, such as rosemary, thyme, or chili powder, to customize the flavor of your pork.
– If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still enjoy this recipe by baking the bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). The cooking time may vary, so use a meat thermometer to determine when the pork is fully cooked.
– To make the bacon extra crispy, broil the tenderloin for the last few minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
– If you prefer a healthier alternative, consider using turkey bacon instead of pork bacon. It still offers a lovely flavor and texture while reducing the overall fat content of the dish.
In conclusion, cooking bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin in an air fryer is a simple and enjoyable experience that yields a delectable dish. With a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you can create a flavorful and tender pork tenderloin that will impress your loved ones. So, dust off that air fryer and get ready to master the art of cooking bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin!