Why You’ll Love This Sweet Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloin Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that combines the rich flavors of venison with the irresistible crunch of bacon, this Sweet Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloin recipe is a must-try.
You won’t believe how the smoky, savory bacon enhances the tender, juicy venison. The sweet marinade adds a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for both special occasions and casual dinners. Trust me, your guests will be raving about it.
And let’s not forget the leftovers—try them on a bun with BBQ sauce for an amazing sandwich the next day!
Ingredients of Sweet Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloin
When it comes to whipping up a dish that wows, the Sweet Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloin is an absolute star. Imagine this: tender, juicy venison enveloped in crispy, smoky bacon, all bathed in a sweet and savory marinade that sings with flavor. It’s like a party on your plate.
Plus, it’s a breeze to make, so you can impress your family and friends without losing your cool in the kitchen. Get ready to plunge into the list of ingredients that will help you create this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs venison tenderloins (can also use moose, elk, pork, or beef)
- 1/2 lb bacon (thin-sliced is best)
- 3 cups dark brown sugar
- 2 cups soy sauce (regular, not low-sodium)
- 1/4 cup white sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
Now, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. First off, if you’re lucky enough to have fresh venison on hand, that’s fantastic! The flavor is truly unmatched, but if not, don’t fret—pork or beef works beautifully too.
The key here is the bacon; it adds that delightful crunch and richness, which balances out the deep, earthy notes of the venison.
And the marinade? Oh boy, it’s a game changer. The combination of dark brown sugar and soy sauce creates a deliciously sticky glaze that caramelizes as it cooks, giving you that sweet and savory bliss in every bite.
Feel free to adjust the white sugar if you’re looking for a sweeter finish, but remember, it’s not for everyone. So, do what feels right for your taste buds. Happy cooking!
How to Make Sweet Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloin
Alright, let’s plunge into how to make this mouthwatering Sweet Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloin. First, you’re going to need 2 lbs of venison tenderloins. If you don’t have venison, don’t sweat it; you can use moose, elk, pork, or even beef. Just make certain it’s tender, because we want it to melt in your mouth.
Now, grab a mixing bowl and let’s whip up that magical marinade. Combine 3 cups of dark brown sugar with 2 cups of regular soy sauce (trust me on this one, low-sodium just won’t cut it). Mix them together until you have a nice, syrupy liquid that looks like it could be the answer to all of life’s problems.
Once your marinade is ready, place the tenderloin in a cooking tray and pour that sweet concoction all over it. Seriously, drown that meat in it. Roll the tenderloin around to guarantee it’s completely covered. This is where the magic really starts. Let it marinate for at least 3 hours, but if you’ve got the time, overnight is even better. If you’re feeling particularly fancy, you can vacuum seal it. I tried this once and felt like a pro chef. But if you’re like me and don’t have one of those machines, just cover it tightly and toss it in the fridge.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F. Now, remove that beautifully marinated loin from the fridge and place it on a slotted baking sheet. Make sure to catch those drippings with a drip pan or some aluminum foil. It’s all about the clean-up, right?
Next, here comes the fun part—grab 1/2 lb of thin-sliced bacon and start wrapping! Begin at one end of the tenderloin and secure your first piece of bacon with a toothpick. Keep wrapping until the whole thing is covered in delicious bacon loops, resembling a meaty arm adorned with bacon wristwatches.
Drizzle any leftover marinade on top, and pop it in the oven for 30-40 minutes. If you like your meat a little rarer, aim for 25-30 minutes, and then consider giving it a quick sear on the grill for that perfect crispy crust. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later.
Sweet Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloin Substitutions & Variations
Whether you’re looking to switch things up or accommodate dietary preferences, there are plenty of substitutions and variations for the Sweet Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloin that can still deliver on flavor.
You can easily swap venison for elk, pork, or even beef tenderloin if you prefer. For a healthier twist, try turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
If you want a different flavor profile, experiment with maple syrup instead of brown sugar or add spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika.
You can also use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Get creative and enjoy!
What to Serve with Sweet Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloin
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing the Sweet Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloin with complementary side dishes that enhance its rich flavors.
I love serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a savory wild rice pilaf. Roasted Brussels sprouts or glazed carrots add a touch of sweetness and crunch, balancing the dish perfectly.
A fresh arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette brightens the plate and adds freshness. For a hearty touch, some crusty bread or garlic knots are great for soaking up any leftover sauce.
These sides not only complement the tenderloin but also create a delightful and satisfying meal.
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing the Sweet Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloin, it’s helpful to keep a few additional tips in mind to secure the best results.
First, don’t skip the marinating time; overnight gives the best flavor. If you’re short on time, using a vacuum seal can speed up the process.
When wrapping the bacon, overlap the strips slightly to guarantee even coverage. For a touch of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Finally, let the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier slices. Enjoy experimenting and feel free to adjust the flavors to your liking!