Why Make This Recipe?
When you want a restaurant-quality meal at home, this Bacon Brown Sugar Beef Tenderloin is the perfect choice! The juicy, tender beef is wrapped in crispy, caramelized bacon and coated with a sweet and savory brown sugar glaze. It’s simple yet elegant, making it great for weeknight dinners, holidays, or special occasions.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 4-6
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Resting Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
How to Make Bacon Brown Sugar Beef Tenderloin
Ingredients
- 1 (2 to 3-pound) beef tenderloin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 8-10 slices of bacon
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Tenderloin
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the Beef: Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season it with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Wrap in Bacon: Wrap bacon slices around the tenderloin, slightly overlapping each piece. Secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks if needed.
Step 2: Make the Brown Sugar Glaze
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and olive oil until smooth.
- Brush the Glaze: Brush half of the glaze over the bacon-wrapped tenderloin.
Step 3: Roast the Tenderloin
- Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional): Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side to crisp up the bacon.
- Bake: Transfer the beef to a baking dish and roast for 35-40 minutes, basting with the remaining glaze halfway through.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check for:
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
Step 4: Rest and Serve
- Rest the Meat: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle with fresh rosemary for extra flavor and serve!
How to Serve Bacon Brown Sugar Beef Tenderloin
- Classic Pairing: Serve with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
- Low-Carb Option: Pair with a fresh Caesar salad or sautéed asparagus.
- Fancy Style: Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.
How to Store Bacon Brown Sugar Beef Tenderloin
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or in a skillet over low heat.
Tips to Make the Best Bacon Brown Sugar Beef Tenderloin
- Use high-quality beef for the best flavor.
- Overlap the bacon slightly to keep it from shrinking while cooking.
- Let the beef rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Baste with glaze halfway through baking for the best caramelization.
Variation Ideas
- Spicy Glaze: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Honey Glazed: Replace brown sugar with honey for a deeper flavor.
- Garlic Butter Version: Brush with melted garlic butter instead of mustard.
Tips for Success
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Trim excess fat from the tenderloin before wrapping in bacon.
- Cook bacon slightly before wrapping if you want extra crispiness.
How Many Servings?
This recipe makes 4-6 servings.
Calories and Nutrition Facts Per Serving
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 40g
- Fats: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 750mg
Health Benefits of Bacon Brown Sugar Beef Tenderloin
- High in Protein: Supports muscle growth and energy.
- Rich in Iron & Zinc: Helps with immune function and oxygen transport.
- Bacon provides essential fats for brain and heart health (when eaten in moderation).
Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?
Yes! This dish is high in protein and essential nutrients, which support muscle health and energy levels. To make it healthier for seniors:
- Reduce sodium by using low-sodium bacon.
- Swap brown sugar for honey for a natural sweetener.
- Serve with fiber-rich sides like roasted sweet potatoes or steamed greens.
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the tenderloin up to 24 hours in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready.
2. What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Tenderloin is the best, but you can also use sirloin or ribeye for a more budget-friendly option.
3. Can I cook this on the grill?
Yes! Sear the tenderloin over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, then move it to indirect heat and cook until desired doneness.
This Bacon Brown Sugar Beef Tenderloin is the perfect mix of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors! Try it today and tell us how it turned out!









