Description
This Apricot Glazed Bacon Wrapped Cajun Pork Tenderloin is the ultimate balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy. Cajun-seasoned pork is wrapped in crispy bacon and brushed with a sticky apricot glaze, then baked to perfection for a tender, juicy centerpiece. It’s a show-stopping dish that’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.
Ingredients
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1 pork tenderloin (1–1.25 lbs)
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2–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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8–10 strips of bacon
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½ cup apricot preserves or jam
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tbsp olive oil (for searing, optional)
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Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack on top.
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Season pork with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Wrap with bacon: Lay bacon strips on a board, slightly overlapping. Place pork at one edge and roll to wrap, tucking ends under.
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Optional Sear: Heat oil in a skillet. Sear wrapped tenderloin on all sides until lightly browned.
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Make Glaze: In a saucepan, heat apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, and vinegar until smooth.
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Bake: Place pork on rack. Brush with half the glaze. Bake 25–30 minutes. Brush with remaining glaze and bake an additional 5–10 minutes, until internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C).
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Rest & Serve: Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with herbs if desired.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Resting helps juices redistribute.
Line the baking pan with foil for easy cleanup.
For a spicy kick, add cayenne or hot sauce to the glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: bacon wrapped pork, cajun pork tenderloin, apricot glaze pork, sweet and spicy pork