How to Cook Bacon Wrapped Beef Filet: A Simple Guide to Gourmet Perfection

Have you ever craved a meal that combines the rich flavor of beef with the irresistible crunch of bacon? You’re not alone. Cooking a bacon-wrapped beef filet is a surefire way to impress your family or guests while satisfying your taste buds.

Overview of Bacon Wrapped Beef Filet

Bacon wrapped beef filet combines savory flavors with a delightful texture. This dish features tender beef filet mignon encased in crispy bacon, creating a satisfying contrast. The combination elevates a simple cut of meat into a gourmet experience.

Key Ingredients

• Beef Filet Mignon: Choose high-quality, well-marbled cuts for the best flavor.
• Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for added crunch and flavor.
• Seasoning: Opt for salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or herbs.

Cooking Techniques

• Searing: Start by searing the bacon-wrapped filet in a hot skillet. This step locks in juices and enhances the flavors.
• Baking or Grilling: After searing, finish cooking in the oven or on a grill. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish: Serve with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a touch of color.
• Sides: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

• Prep Ahead: Wrap the filets in bacon and season them a few hours before cooking. This allows flavors to meld.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between filets while cooking. This ensures even cooking and allows bacon to crisp nicely.

• How long should I cook the bacon-wrapped filet? The cooking time varies depending on the thickness, generally about 10-15 minutes in the oven after searing.
• Can I use other types of meat? Yes, chicken or pork can also work well, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

This dish’s simplicity and elegant presentation make it an ideal choice for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures that come with each bite.

Ingredients Needed

To create a delicious bacon-wrapped beef filet, gather the following ingredients for the best flavors and textures.

Primary Ingredients

• Beef Filet Mignon: Choose high-quality filet mignon, around 6 to 8 ounces per serving. The tender cut is essential for a flavorful dish.
• Thick-Cut Bacon: Use 1 to 2 slices per filet. Thick-cut bacon provides a satisfying crunch and rich flavor.
• Salt: A generous pinch of coarse kosher salt enhances the natural flavors of the meat.
• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a subtle heat that complements the beef.

• Garlic Powder: Sprinkle a bit of garlic powder for additional depth of flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Consider using rosemary or thyme to add a fresh aroma to your dish.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a touch of balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet tangy finish.
• Vegetable Sides: Pair with vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a complete meal.

Gathering these ingredients sets the stage for a delightful cooking experience.

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to prepare a delicious bacon-wrapped beef filet.

Preparing the Beef Filet

1. Select quality filets: Choose 6 to 8-ounce beef filet mignon cuts for each serving. Look for a nice marbling and firmness.
2. Season well: Generously sprinkle coarse kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder on both sides of the filet. This helps enhance the beef’s natural flavor.
3. Bring to room temperature: Let the seasoned filets sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout.

1. Choose your bacon: Use 1 to 2 slices of thick-cut bacon for each filet. Thicker bacon provides a better crunch and flavor.
2. Wrap the filet: Start at one end of the filet and wrap the bacon around it tightly. Overlap the bacon slightly to prevent gaps.
3. Secure with toothpicks: Insert toothpicks at both ends of the filet to hold the bacon in place. This prevents the bacon from unwrapping during cooking.
4. Optional: For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of freshly chopped rosemary or thyme on the bacon before cooking.

These preparation steps set the stage for a flavorful and visually appealing dish.

Cooking Methods

Cooking a bacon-wrapped beef filet can be done in several ways, with grilling and oven baking being two popular methods. Each technique brings out unique flavors and textures.

Grilling

Grilling adds a delightful smoky flavor to the bacon-wrapped beef filet. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat.

1. Prepare the Grill: Clean the grates and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
2. Sear the Filets: Place the filets on the grill for 3-4 minutes on each side to get a nice sear.
3. Cook to Desired Doneness: After searing, move the filets to a cooler part of the grill. Close the lid and let them cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness.
4. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.
5. Rest the Meat: Allow the filets to rest for about 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Consider adding wood chips for extra flavor. Apple or hickory wood complements the beef well.

Oven Baking

Oven baking delivers evenly cooked, tender filets. It’s easy and requires minimal monitoring.

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sear the Filets: In a hot skillet, sear the wrapped filets for 2-3 minutes on each side until the bacon is crispy.
3. Transfer to the Oven: Move the skillet directly to the preheated oven or place the filets on a baking sheet.
4. Bake: Cook for about 10-15 minutes, adjusting based on thickness. Check for your desired doneness.
5. Rest Before Serving: Let the filets rest for 5 minutes after removing them from the oven.

Optionally, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving for a touch of sweetness. Oven-baked filets pair well with roasted vegetables on the side.

Tips for the Perfect Result

Achieving a perfectly cooked bacon-wrapped beef filet requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

Seasoning Techniques

Seasoning enhances the flavors of your beef filet. Use coarse kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and garlic powder. Generously coat all sides of the filet for a balanced flavor profile.

For added depth, mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Sprinkle them over the filet before wrapping with bacon. This step infuses the meat with herbaceous notes, enriching each bite. Letting your seasoned filets sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before cooking promotes even flavor distribution.

Ensuring Even Cooking

Even cooking ensures a juicy filet. Sear the filet in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side. This locks in the juices, creating a savory crust.

When wrapping the filet with bacon, overlap the bacon slices slightly. Secure the bacon with toothpicks to keep it in place during cooking.

For consistent results, maintain space between filets on the cooking surface. This allows air circulation and prevents steaming. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare, checking with a meat thermometer. After cooking, let the filets rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.

Conclusion

Cooking a bacon-wrapped beef filet is a delightful way to elevate your dining experience. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a dish that’s both impressive and satisfying.

Whether you choose to grill or bake, the combination of tender beef and crispy bacon will surely win over your family and friends. Don’t forget to add your favorite sides and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for that extra touch.

So go ahead and give it a try. You’ll enjoy every bite and the smiles it brings to the table. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients do I need for a bacon-wrapped beef filet?

To make a bacon-wrapped beef filet, you will need high-quality beef filet mignon (6 to 8 ounces per serving), 1 to 2 slices of thick-cut bacon, coarse kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and optional fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. A drizzle of balsamic glaze is also recommended for a sweet finish.

How do I prepare the beef filet before cooking?

Start by selecting a quality beef filet with good marbling. Season it generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Let the filet sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking before wrapping it with bacon.

What cooking methods can I use for this dish?

You can cook the bacon-wrapped beef filet using grilling or oven baking. Grilling adds a smoky flavor, while baking ensures even cooking and tenderness. Both methods begin with searing the filet and then finishing the cooking process at the desired temperature.

How do I know when the filet is done?

For medium-rare, the internal temperature of the bacon-wrapped filet should reach 130°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, and let the filets rest after cooking for optimal tenderness and flavor.

What sides pair well with bacon-wrapped beef filet?

This dish complements well with vegetable sides like roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or other hearty sides for a complete meal. Fresh herbs can be used as garnishes for added flavor and presentation.