Apricot Glazed Bacon Wrapped Cajun Pork Tenderloin

Apricot Glazed Bacon Wrapped Cajun Pork Tenderloin is a savory and sweet main dish that’s as flavorful as it is visually impressive. The tenderloin is first rubbed with a blend of Cajun seasoning and brown sugar, then wrapped in crispy bacon and finished with a sticky apricot glaze. The result is a tender, juicy interior with a smoky, sweet-spicy crust that hits every flavor note—perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

What makes this dish particularly irresistible is the balance of textures and flavors. The pork stays moist and flavorful thanks to the bacon wrap, which not only enhances the flavor but also helps seal in the juices. The Cajun rub delivers a punch of heat and spice, while the apricot and mustard glaze brings in just enough sweetness and tang to round it all out. It’s a simple yet show-stopping recipe that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor Explosion

The Cajun spice, smoky bacon, and sweet apricot glaze create a bold, mouthwatering combination.

Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Impact

Only a few pantry staples are needed for a restaurant-quality meal.

Family Friendly

Sweet glaze and savory pork appeal to both kids and adults.

Versatile Serving Options

Pairs well with a variety of side dishes, from grains to greens.

Impressive but Easy

Simple steps, but the presentation and taste make it feel gourmet.

Ingredients

• Pork tenderloin
• Cajun seasoning
• Brown sugar
• Bacon strips
• Apricot preserves
• Grainy Dijon mustard

Variations

Spicier Kick

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze for more heat.

Herb Blend

Replace Cajun seasoning with Italian herbs or a rosemary-garlic rub for a different flavor profile.

Maple Glaze

Substitute apricot preserves with maple syrup for a seasonal variation.

Apple Mustard

Use apple butter and spicy brown mustard in place of apricot and Dijon.

Oven to Grill

Sear the bacon-wrapped tenderloin in a skillet, then finish on the grill for a smoky twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

Step 2

Pat the pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. Rub the surface with Cajun seasoning and brown sugar until evenly coated.

Step 3

Wrap the tenderloin tightly with bacon strips, overlapping slightly and tucking the ends underneath to secure.

Step 4

In a small bowl, mix apricot preserves and grainy Dijon mustard to form the glaze.

Step 5

Brush about half of the glaze over the bacon-wrapped pork.

Step 6

Place the pork on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Step 7

Halfway through cooking, baste with more glaze. Broil during the last 2–3 minutes for extra caramelization.

Step 8

Let the pork rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to secure the bacon if needed.
• Don’t skip resting time—it helps retain the juices.
• For extra caramelization, finish under the broiler.
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• Let glaze ingredients melt slightly for easier brushing.

How to Serve

Slice into medallions and serve with roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, or a fresh salad. Drizzle extra glaze on top for added flavor. It also pairs well with wild rice or cornbread for a Southern-inspired meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store sliced pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Wrap tightly and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through. To keep bacon crisp, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes, pork loin or boneless chops work, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Do I need to marinate the pork?

No, the seasoning rub and glaze provide plenty of flavor.

3. Can I use turkey bacon?

Yes, but it may not crisp up the same as regular bacon.

4. What if I don’t have apricot preserves?

Peach, orange marmalade, or apple butter are great alternatives.

5. How do I make it less spicy?

Use a mild Cajun blend or reduce the quantity slightly.

6. Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, season and wrap in bacon ahead of time, then glaze and bake when ready.

7. Is a glaze necessary?

The glaze adds a great finish, but you can skip it for a more savory dish.

8. What internal temperature should pork tenderloin reach?

Cook to an internal temperature of 145°F for perfect doneness.

9. Can I grill this instead of baking?

Yes, sear over medium heat and finish with indirect heat while glazing.

10. Can I make extra glaze?

Absolutely—double the glaze and use it as a sauce for serving.

Conclusion

Apricot Glazed Bacon Wrapped Cajun Pork Tenderloin is a sensational dish that strikes the perfect balance between spicy, sweet, and smoky. With its juicy interior and crispy bacon exterior, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking a special family meal, this recipe brings bold flavor and elegant presentation to the table with minimal effort.

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