Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Mashed Cauliflower
Tips for Experienced Cooks
To elevate the flavor profile, consider adding a touch of sweetness to the Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of honey before roasting, or sprinkle them with parmesan cheese in the last 5 minutes of roasting for a crispy, cheesy crust. For the mashed cauliflower, infusing it with roasted garlic instead of raw can add a deeper, more nuanced flavor. Additionally, resting the pork not only allows the juices to redistribute but also gives you an ideal window to quickly sear the medallions on a high flame after slicing for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Step 1: Preheat oven and prepare pork
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each pork tenderloin with 6 slices of bacon, securing the bacon with toothpicks if needed. Season the pork with salt, pepper, dried rosemary, and dried thyme.
- 2 pork tenderloins
- 12 slices of bacon
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Step 2: Sear the pork
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork tenderloins and sear them on all sides until the bacon is crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 3: Roast the pork
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the pork for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Prepare the Brussels sprouts
While the pork is roasting, in a separate baking dish, combine the Brussels sprouts, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the Brussels sprouts evenly.
Step 5: Roast the Brussels sprouts
Add the Brussels sprouts to the oven and roast alongside the pork for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Step 6: Prepare the mashed cauliflower
In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 10 minutes, or until tender. Drain the cauliflower and transfer it to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 1 head of cauliflower (cut into florets)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Step 7: Serve the dish
Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Remove the toothpicks and slice the pork into medallions. Serve the bacon-wrapped pork medallions with the roasted Brussels sprouts and mashed cauliflower.
Meat, Eggs, & Dairy
- 2 whole pork tenderloin
- 12 slices bacon
Fresh Produce & Herbs
- 1 pound brussels sprout
- 2 cups cauliflower floret
Seasonings & Spices
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- salt
- pepper
Pantry Items
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar