If you’re craving a show-stopping dinner that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress, then this Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Wrapped in Bacon Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pork medallions, stuffed with a creamy blend of sharp cheddar and fresh broccoli, all enveloped in smoky, crispy bacon. This dish is the perfect harmony of textures and tastes—rich cheese, savory pork, crisp bacon, and vibrant veggies—that will make every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe effortlessly blends comfort and elegance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of straightforward yet essential ingredients that each play a critical role in crafting those incredible layers of flavor. From tender pork to zesty honey mustard, every component contributes texture, color, or a burst of taste that elevates the dish.
- Pork tenderloin (1.1–1.1 kg): The perfect cut for stuffing, tender and lean with just the right amount of moisture.
- Dry pork rub (60 ml): Adds a deep, smoky flavor that infuses the pork inside and out.
- Bacon slices (16 slices): Wraps the pork parcels with a crispy, salty finish that seals in all the juices.
- Broccoli (225 g, finely diced): Brings a mild crunch and a fresh, green touch to the cheesy filling.
- Cream cheese (115 g, softened): Creates a luscious, creamy base for the stuffing that blends beautifully with the cheddar.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (170 g, divided): Sharp and melty, half goes into the filling and the rest tops the pork for that irresistible cheesy crust.
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Adds a subtle kick that balances the richness.
- Honey mustard dressing (60 ml): Brushed on top for a tangy-sweet glaze that perfectly complements the bacon.
- Cherry tomatoes (150 g, diced): A fresh, juicy garnish that brightens every bite.
- Green onions (2, diced): Adds a mild, sharp freshness as a final touch.
How to Make Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Wrapped in Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Grill for Indirect Cooking
Start by igniting your charcoal and letting it heat until the coals are ashed over. Arrange the hot charcoal on one side of the grill to create a cooler zone for indirect cooking, ensuring the pork cooks evenly without burning.
Step 2: Slice and Butterfly the Pork Tenderloin
Cut the pork tenderloin into 8 equal pieces. Carefully butterfly each piece by slicing through the side, opening it like a book without cutting all the way through. This creates the perfect pocket for stuffing.
Step 3: Even Out the Thickness of the Pork
Place each butterflied pork piece between sheets of wax paper. Using a meat mallet, gently pound to create an even thickness. This helps the meat cook uniformly and makes it easier to fold over the stuffing.
Step 4: Season the Pork with Dry Rub
Sprinkle both sides of each pork medallion evenly with the dry pork rub. This step infuses savory flavors deep into the meat and provides a flavorful crust once cooked.
Step 5: Make the Cheese and Broccoli Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, diced broccoli, and 85 grams of shredded cheddar. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper. This creamy, cheesy mixture is the heart of the dish, adding richness and a delicate balance of textures.
Step 6: Assemble the Pork Parcels
Divide the cheese and broccoli mixture over one side of each pork piece. Fold the pork over to enclose the filling completely. Then, wrap each parcel tightly with two slices of bacon, securing all those delicious flavors inside with a crispy bacon embrace.
Step 7: Set Up the Grill Temperature
Arrange your charcoal to one side to maintain a grill temperature of about 120°C. This lower temperature is key to gently cooking the pork until it’s tender and juicy without drying out.
Step 8: Cook the Wrapped Pork on the Grill
Place each bacon-wrapped pork parcel on the cooler side of the grill. Close the lid and cook slowly for approximately 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 63°C, ensuring it’s perfectly cooked through and safe to eat.
Step 9: Add the Final Cheese Layer and Glaze
Brush each cooked pork portion with the honey mustard dressing. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar on top, then close the grill lid for 1 to 2 minutes to melt the cheese into a smooth, bubbly finish that’s utterly irresistible.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve Immediately
Transfer your pork bundles onto plates and garnish generously with the diced cherry tomatoes and green onions. These fresh toppings add a burst of color and brightness, balancing the richness of the dish perfectly.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Wrapped in Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of diced cherry tomatoes and green onions isn’t just pretty—it adds a fresh contrast to the hearty pork and creamy cheese filling. The tomatoes bring slight acidity and juicy bursts, while the green onions introduce a subtle, crisp bite that elevates the entire plate.
Side Dishes
This Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Wrapped in Bacon Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted garlic green beans, or even a simple mixed green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. These sides complement without overpowering the complex flavors of the pork.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the pork medallions open to showcase the colorful cheese and broccoli filling for a stunning presentation. Alternatively, serve the pork parcels whole atop a rustic wooden board surrounded by vibrant cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs. These touches will make your dish a centerpiece that invites conversation and complements any festive occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, during which the flavors continue to meld beautifully. Just be sure to cool the pork parcels completely before refrigerating.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked pork parcels for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 160°C for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. This will keep the bacon crisp and the cheese melty without drying out the pork. Avoid microwaving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without a charcoal grill?
Absolutely! While the charcoal grill adds a wonderful smoky flavor, you can cook the Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Wrapped in Bacon Recipe in a conventional oven at 120°C. Just use a baking tray and follow the same timing and temperature guidelines for perfect results.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the filling?
You can use ricotta or mascarpone cheese if you prefer a lighter or slightly different texture. These substitutes will still blend well with the broccoli and cheddar, though cream cheese offers the best creaminess and tang in the original recipe.
Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the pork parcels a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This makes it convenient for dinner parties or busy weeknights where some prep is done in advance.
How do I know when the pork is cooked perfectly?
The best way to ensure juicy and safe pork is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 63°C, which is the ideal balance of doneness and tenderness. After removing from the heat, let the meat rest a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Can I use smoked bacon for a stronger flavor?
Using smoked bacon can add a deeper, smoky character to the dish, which many find delicious. Just be mindful of additional saltiness and adjust the dry rub seasoning accordingly to keep flavors balanced.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Wrapped in Bacon Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings the best of savory pork, creamy cheese, and fresh veggies together in one impressive package. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a home cook looking for something special, this recipe is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Give it a try and watch your dinner guests light up with every bite!
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Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Wrapped in Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously juicy pork tenderloin stuffed with a creamy broccoli and cheddar cheese mixture, wrapped in crispy bacon, and cooked low and slow over indirect charcoal grill heat. Finished with a tangy honey mustard glaze and topped with fresh cherry tomatoes and green onions for a flavorful and elegant meal.
Ingredients
Pork and Bacon
- 1.1–1.1 kg pork tenderloin
- 16 slices bacon
- 60 ml dry pork rub
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Stuffing
- 225 g broccoli, finely diced
- 115 g cream cheese, softened
- 85 g shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 85 g shredded cheddar cheese (remaining)
- 60 ml honey mustard dressing
- 150 g cherry tomatoes, diced
- 2 green onions, diced
Instructions
- Prepare the Grill: Ignite charcoal and allow it to heat until ashed over, suitable for indirect grilling, creating a cooler side for slow cooking.
- Butterfly the Pork: Slice the tenderloin into 8 equal pieces. Butterfly each portion by slicing through the side without cutting all the way through, creating a flap.
- Pound the Meat: Lay each butterflied pork piece flat, cover with wax paper, and gently pound with a meat mallet until they reach an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Season Pork: Evenly sprinkle both sides of the pork medallions with the dry pork rub and some freshly ground black pepper to build flavor.
- Make Filling: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, finely diced broccoli, and 85 g shredded cheddar cheese. Season the mixture with freshly ground black pepper.
- Stuff and Wrap: Divide the cheese and broccoli mixture over one side of each pork piece. Fold the pork over the filling to enclose it completely, then wrap each parcel securely with 2 slices of bacon.
- Set Up for Indirect Cooking: Arrange the hot charcoal to one side of the grill to create a cooler zone. Confirm the grill temperature is about 120°C (248°F).
- Cook Pork: Place the bacon-wrapped pork parcels on the cool side of the grill. Close the lid and cook for 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 63°C (145°F) for safe doneness.
- Glaze and Melt Cheese: Brush each cooked pork portion with honey mustard dressing, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top, close the lid, and let the cheese melt for 1–2 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the stuffed pork bundles and garnish with the diced cherry tomatoes and green onions. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Maintaining the grill temperature at around 120°C is crucial for slow, even cooking to keep the pork tender and juicy.
- Using indirect heat prevents the bacon from burning while allowing it to crisp up nicely.
- Allow the pork to rest a few minutes after cooking to let juices redistribute before serving if desired.
- The stuffing can be customized with other cheeses or finely chopped vegetables according to preference.
- Using a meat thermometer ensures the pork is cooked safely to the correct internal temperature.
