Transform your dinner table into a gourmet experience with this unbelievably simple yet incredibly elegant Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon recipe. Imagine a perfectly seared, tender cut of beef, embraced by a crisp, savory strip of bacon, locking in every drop of its succulent juices. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a statement, perfect for those cherished Valentine’s Day celebrations, intimate date nights at home, or memorable birthday dinners. Forget the hassle and expense of fancy restaurant reservations; you can master this culinary delight right in your own kitchen.
Cooking a flavorful Filet Mignon wrapped in bacon is surprisingly straightforward, proving that gourmet doesn’t have to mean complicated. Utilizing a single cast-iron pan, this meal comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something special. Its rich flavor profile pairs seamlessly with an array of side dishes, from vibrant roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp, refreshing salad. Prepare to impress your guests and your palate with this restaurant-quality steak that delivers on both taste and presentation.
Indulge in the Ultimate Bacon Wrapped Steak Experience
There’s something inherently luxurious about a perfectly cooked steak, and when that steak is a melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon, elevated by the irresistible crunch and flavor of bacon, you’ve reached culinary nirvana. This bacon wrapped filet mignon isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience, designed for moments when you want to add a touch of sophistication without the stress. The best part? This incredibly elegant meal can be prepared from start to finish in under 30 minutes, all within the convenience of a single pan. It truly redefines what’s possible for a quick, impressive home-cooked dinner.
The bacon isn’t just there for its delicious taste; it plays a crucial role in perfecting this tender cut of meat. As it crisps, the bacon forms a protective, flavorful shield around the filet, effectively sealing in all the natural juices. This innovative technique ensures your steak remains incredibly moist and bursts with flavor in every bite, compensating for the filet mignon’s naturally leaner profile. The contrast between the smoky, crispy bacon and the tender, buttery steak creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is simply unforgettable. The most challenging decision you’ll face after mastering this recipe is choosing the perfect accompaniment, be it a vibrant array of freshly roasted vegetables, a velvety heap of garlic parmesan mashed potatoes, or a light and refreshing simple side salad. For more inspiration on crafting an unforgettable romantic evening, explore our collection of date night dinner ideas.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
Crafting the perfect bacon wrapped filet mignon begins with selecting high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that sought-after juicy, tender, and flavorful result. Here’s what you’ll need and some tips for choosing the best:
- Filet Mignon: The star of our dish. Aim for steaks that are approximately 1 inch thick for optimal searing and even cooking. Filet mignon, also known as beef tenderloin, is renowned for its exceptional tenderness and mild flavor. While filet mignon is the ideal choice, you can also experiment with other cuts like bacon wrapped sirloin steak or even a larger beef tenderloin wrapped in bacon for a roast.
- Bacon: We highly recommend using thin-sliced bacon for this recipe. Thin bacon crisps up beautifully and renders its fat more efficiently, basting the steak as it cooks. Ensure the bacon is wrapped snugly around each steak; this tight embrace helps it adhere during cooking and prevents it from unraveling, ensuring maximum flavor and moisture retention. If needed, secure with a toothpick.
- Olive Oil: Essential for searing, olive oil boasts a high smoke point, which means it can withstand the high heat required for a perfect crust without burning. It also contributes a subtle, fruity note that complements the beef.
- Butter: For an unparalleled depth of flavor and a rich, golden crust, butter is indispensable. We use a combination of olive oil and butter—the oil prevents the butter from burning too quickly, while the butter infuses the steak with its irresistible, creamy essence.
- Garlic: Whole, peeled cloves of garlic are key. When minced, garlic can quickly burn under high heat, leading to a bitter taste. Whole cloves, on the other hand, gently infuse the cooking oil and butter with their aromatic goodness, creating a subtle yet profound flavor base.
- Fresh Herbs: Elevate your steak with the fragrant notes of fresh herbs. Rosemary or thyme are classic choices that pair exquisitely with beef and bacon. A few sprigs tossed into the pan during searing will release their essential oils, adding a sophisticated aroma and taste to your finished dish.
Mastering How to Cook Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon: A Step-by-Step Guide
Achieving a perfectly cooked, juicy bacon wrapped filet mignon is simpler than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps to create a restaurant-quality meal at home:
- Prepare Your Steaks: Begin by removing your filet mignon steaks from the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before cooking. Allowing them to come closer to room temperature ensures more even cooking throughout the steak. This prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside remains cold.
- Dry and Season Liberally: Pat each steak thoroughly dry with a paper towel. This crucial step promotes a superior sear and a beautiful crust. Once dry, season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning, as it forms the initial layer of flavor.
- Wrap in Bacon: Take one slice of thin-cut bacon and carefully wrap it around the perimeter of each steak. The goal is a snug fit. If the bacon seems loose, secure it gently with a wooden toothpick. This ensures the bacon stays in place and crisps evenly around the steak.
- Sear for a Golden Crust: Heat a heavy-bottomed cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s smoking slightly. Add the olive oil, followed by the butter, whole peeled garlic cloves, and sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme. Once the butter is melted and foaming, carefully place the bacon-wrapped steaks into the hot skillet. Sear for approximately 90 seconds per side, or until a beautiful golden-brown crust has formed. As you sear, use a spoon to baste the steaks with the flavorful butter and oil mixture from the bottom of the pan, enhancing both moisture and taste.
- Finish in the Oven: Immediately transfer the entire cast iron skillet to a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven. Continue to cook for an additional 7-8 minutes, or until your steaks reach your desired level of doneness. For the most accurate results, always use a digital meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. (Refer to our FAQ section for a doneness guide.)
- The Essential Rest: Once cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steaks to a cutting board. Allow them to rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period is critical; it allows the juices, which have migrated to the center during cooking, to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in an exceptionally tender and juicy steak. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Expert Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
Achieving a restaurant-quality bacon wrapped filet mignon at home is entirely within reach with a few key techniques. These tips will help ensure your steak is perfectly cooked, incredibly tender, and bursting with flavor every time:
- Prioritize the Resting Period: This is arguably the most critical step for any steak, especially a premium cut like filet mignon. After cooking, allowing your steaks to rest for at least 5-7 minutes enables the internal juices, which have concentrated in the center, to redistribute evenly throughout the meat. The result is a steak that is remarkably tender, consistently juicy, and full of flavor from edge to edge. Skipping this step can lead to a dry steak, even if perfectly cooked.
- Embrace the Bacon’s Benefits: Beyond its undeniably delicious flavor, bacon serves a practical purpose when wrapped around filet mignon. This naturally lean cut of beef benefits greatly from the bacon’s fat, which renders during cooking to baste the steak, adding moisture and an incredible savory depth. The bacon also acts as a protective barrier, preventing the filet from drying out and ensuring a moist, tender interior.
- Choose the Right Pan: For an unbeatable sear and even cooking, a cast iron pan is your best friend. Its superior heat retention and distribution create that coveted golden-brown crust. If cast iron isn’t available, a heavy-bottomed stainless steel or copper pan is a good alternative. Try to avoid nonstick pans for searing steaks, as they often don’t reach or maintain the high temperatures needed for an optimal crust.
- Bring Steaks to Room Temperature: This step is often overlooked but makes a significant difference. Pull your filet mignon from the refrigerator 30-60 minutes before you plan to cook it. A steak that starts closer to room temperature will cook more evenly from edge to center. If the steak is too cold, the exterior can overcook and dry out before the interior reaches your desired doneness.
- Understand Carryover Cooking: Remember that your steaks will continue to cook for several minutes after you remove them from the oven (or stovetop). This phenomenon, known as carryover cooking, can increase the internal temperature by a few degrees. To account for this, it’s often best to remove your steaks when they are 5 degrees below your target internal temperature.
- Resist the Urge to Move Them While Searing: Patience is a virtue when searing steak. Once you place the bacon-wrapped filets in the hot skillet, leave them undisturbed for the recommended searing time. Constant shifting prevents the formation of that beautiful, flavorful, deep brown crust (Maillard reaction), which is key to a truly great steak. Let the pan do its work!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is widely celebrated as the most tender cut of beef, originating from the end portion of the beef tenderloin. Because there is only a small amount of this muscle per animal, it is also typically one of the most premium and expensive cuts available. Its fine grain and buttery texture make it a highly sought-after steak for special occasions.
If filet mignon isn’t available or if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, several cuts can serve as excellent substitutes in this bacon-wrapped recipe. We recommend strip loin roast, top sirloin, or rib roast. While they may not be as exquisitely tender as filet mignon, they still offer great flavor and can be made juicy and delicious when cooked with bacon.
The most reliable method for determining steak doneness is by checking the internal temperature with a digital meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding the bone or bacon. Keep in mind that steaks will continue to cook a few degrees (carryover cooking) after being removed from the oven or pan. Here’s a general guide:
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
- Medium Well: 145-155°F (63-68°C)
- Well: 155°F+ (68°C+)
The oven finishing time can vary based on several factors, including the initial searing temperature, the thickness and size of your steaks, and how many you’re cooking at once. These are approximate times, so always rely on a digital thermometer for accuracy, factoring in carryover cooking:
- Medium Rare: 5-6 minutes
- Medium: 6-7 minutes
- Medium Well: 8-9 minutes
- Well: 10+ minutes
Storing and Reheating Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
While fresh is always best, sometimes you might have leftovers! Here’s how to properly store and reheat your delicious bacon wrapped filet mignon to maintain its quality and flavor:
- Refrigerator: To keep your cooked steaks fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container. They will stay good in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they cool down to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation.
- To Reheat in the Oven: For best results, remove the steaks from the fridge at least 30 minutes before reheating. Preheat your oven to a low 275°F (135°C). Place the steaks on a baking sheet and bake until their internal temperature reaches 110-115°F (43-46°C). Immediately remove them from the oven, then sear them briefly in a hot skillet for about one minute per side to re-crisp the bacon and warm the exterior. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving again.
- To Reheat on the Stovetop: This method also works wonderfully. Take your steaks out of the fridge at least 30 minutes prior. Place them in a preheated cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat. You can add a splash of beef stock or any residual pan juices to help moisten them. Cover the skillet with a lid and warm gently, checking occasionally, until the internal temperature of the meat reads between 110-115°F (43-46°C). Once warm, transfer them to a separate (or cleaned) skillet heated to medium-high and sear for about one minute per side to achieve that desirable crust and crispy bacon. Allow them to rest for 5 minutes before enjoying.
Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon Recipe
The Carefree Kitchen
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Ingredients
- 4 5-6 ounce beef tenderloin steaks, about 1″ thick
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices bacon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- 4 sprigs rosemary, or thyme
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220°C).
- Remove steaks from the fridge and let them come to room temperature (about 30-60 mins). Pat the steaks dry thoroughly with a paper towel, then generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Wrap 1 slice of thin bacon snugly around the edge of each steak. Secure with a toothpick if needed to keep the bacon in place.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the olive oil, followed by butter, whole garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary (or thyme) sprigs.
- Carefully add the bacon-wrapped steaks to the hot skillet and sear for about 90 seconds per side, until golden brown and a crust forms. Flip the steaks and sear on the other side for another 90 seconds, using a spoon to baste the steaks with the flavorful butter/oil mixture from the pan.
- Transfer the skillet directly to the preheated 425°F oven. Cook for an additional 7-8 minutes, or until steaks reach your desired doneness, testing with a digital thermometer for accuracy.
- Remove the steaks from the oven and transfer to a cutting board. Allow them to rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Reheating in the oven: Remove steaks from the fridge at least 30 minutes before placing in a preheated 275°F (135°C) oven. Bake until warmed through to 110-115°F (43-46°C). Remove from the oven and sear again in a hot skillet for about one minute per side to re-crisp the bacon. Let them rest for 5 minutes before eating.
Reheating on the stovetop: Remove steaks from the fridge at least 30 minutes before placing them in a preheated cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add stock or any residual juices, then cover with a lid and warm over medium-low, checking occasionally until the meat reads between 110-115°F (43-46°C). Once warm, sear them again in a separate (or clean) skillet over medium-high heat for about one minute per side to achieve a fresh sear and crispy bacon. Let them rest for 5 minutes before eating.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 1g |
Protein: 3g |
Fat: 21g |
Saturated Fat: 8g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 10g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 30mg |
Sodium: 778mg |
Potassium: 64mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 1g |
Vitamin A: 185IU |
Vitamin C: 1mg |
Calcium: 10mg |
Iron: 1mg
Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.
Main Course
American
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- Classic Beef Stroganoff: Creamy, rich, and deeply satisfying, this timeless dish is pure comfort food.
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This elegant Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon is truly a perfect meal to make anytime you want to infuse a little luxury into your dining experience. It’s not only incredibly juicy and delicious but also surprisingly simple to prepare at home, making it accessible for any home cook looking to impress. Enjoy the confidence of creating a gourmet dish that will be remembered and requested time and time again!