Sweet And Sour Pork Loin
Sweet and savory pork loin wrapped in bacon with colorful peppers and onions, baked to perfection—ideal for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the pork tenderloins lengthwise, but not all the way through.
- Pound the meat until it is 1/2 inch thick.
- Cook bacon until limp.
- In bacon drippings, cook onion and green pepper until tender.
- Stir in tomato sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, seasoned salt, and pepper. Cook until thoroughly heated.
- Spoon the mixture into the center of each tenderloin.
- Wrap bacon slices around the tenderloin and secure with toothpicks.
- Bake in a covered roaster for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, you can substitute the pork tenderloins with chicken breasts or turkey cutlets. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Ensure you cut the bacon into smaller pieces before cooking for even distribution. If you want to save time, consider using pre-cooked bacon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sweet and Sour Pork Loin with steamed rice or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. Roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes also complement this dish nicely. For a festive touch, consider pairing it with Christmas Cheese Ring as an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This will help retain moisture and keep the bacon crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Pork Loin contains roughly 327 calories, with 5g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2012mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pork tenderloins and fill them with the bacon mixture a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate until you are ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What side dishes go well with Sweet and Sour Pork Loin?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with sautéed green beans, fluffy rice, or a simple coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. You can also complement it with dishes like Cheese Tortilla Roll-Ups.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the Sweet and Sour Pork Loin. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).