Key Takeaways
- Select Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality filet mignon and thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture in your dish.
- Prep for Perfection: Take the filet out of the refrigerator ahead of time and pat it dry to ensure an even cook and good sear.
- Season Well: Generously season the meat with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance its natural flavors.
- Optimal Cooking Temperature: Preheat the oven to 400°F for crispy bacon and evenly cooked steak, baking for 20-25 minutes based on steak thickness.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, targeting 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium.
- Pair with Complementary Sides: Enhance your meal with side dishes like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus, and consider adding sauces like garlic butter or chimichurri for a flavor boost.
Ever wondered how to elevate your steak dinner to a whole new level? Picture this: a juicy filet mignon wrapped in crispy bacon, cooked to perfection in your oven. It’s the kind of dish that impresses guests and satisfies your cravings all at once.
Ingredients Needed
Gather the following ingredients to cook a delicious bacon-wrapped filet mignon in the oven.
Filet Mignon
Select high-quality filet mignon steaks, ideally 6 to 8 ounces each. Freshness matters, so look for marbling, which enhances flavor and tenderness.
Bacon
Choose thick-cut bacon for a better texture and flavor. You’ll need about 1 to 2 strips of bacon per filet mignon, depending on how much coverage you prefer.
Seasonings
Use simple seasonings to enhance the meat’s natural flavor. A mix of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder works well. You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra flavor boost if desired.
Cooking Oil
Opt for a high-smoke-point oil, such as olive oil or canola oil. Use a tablespoon to coat the baking dish, which prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
Preparation Steps
Proper preparation sets the foundation for cooking a delicious bacon-wrapped filet. Follow these steps to get the best results.
Preparing the Filet
- Select high-quality filet mignon steaks at least 1.5 inches thick. Look for marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness.
- Take the steaks out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the meat cook evenly.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture ensures a good sear.
Wrapping with Bacon
- Choose thick-cut bacon for a better texture. Aim for 2-3 slices per filet.
- Lay each steak flat on a cutting board. Start wrapping at one end with the bacon, making sure to cover the entire filet.
- Secure the bacon ends with toothpicks or kitchen twine if needed. This keeps the bacon in place during cooking.
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garlic powder generously over each filet. Aim for an even coat, about 1 teaspoon of salt and pepper per steak.
- Rub the seasonings into the meat gently. This enhances the flavor and creates a delicious crust.
- Optionally, drizzle a little cooking oil on the wrapped steaks. This adds moisture and helps to crisp the bacon in the oven.
Take these preparation steps seriously to create a mouthwatering dish your guests will love.
Cooking Process
Cooking a bacon-wrapped filet in the oven requires precise steps to achieve optimal flavor and texture. Follow these structured guidelines to ensure a perfect outcome.
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. This temperature allows the bacon to crisp while cooking the filet evenly. Heat helps the bacon fat render, infusing moisture and flavor into the steak. Always allow the oven to reach the desired temperature before placing your dish inside for the best results.
Baking Time and Temperature
Place your wrapped filets on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for air circulation. Bake the filets for 20-25 minutes. Cooking time varies depending on the thickness of the steak and your oven’s efficiency. Aim for a golden-brown bacon crust while the filet reaches your desired level of doneness.
Checking for Doneness
Use an instant-read meat thermometer for accuracy. Insert it into the thickest part of the filet without touching the bacon or bone. For medium-rare, target an internal temperature of 130°F; for medium, aim for 140°F. If the temperature isn’t reached, continue baking in 5-minute increments until it’s done. Let the filets rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your bacon-wrapped filets with complementary side dishes and sauces to create a well-rounded meal. These additions enhance the overall dining experience and elevate the flavors of your dish.
Side Dishes
Include hearty side dishes that balance the rich flavors of the bacon-wrapped filet. Opt for:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes mixed with garlic add comfort and pair well with the steak.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus offers freshness and a nice crunch.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese provides a refreshing contrast.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed with olive oil and almonds introduce a delightful texture.
Sauces and Condiments
Enhance your bacon-wrapped filets with flavorful sauces and condiments. Consider offering:
- Red Wine Reduction: A rich sauce made by simmering red wine and beef broth creates a sophisticated touch.
- Garlic Butter: Melted butter infused with minced garlic adds richness and extra flavor when drizzled over the filet.
- Chimichurri Sauce: This vibrant sauce, made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, adds a fresh, herby note.
- Horseradish Cream: A zesty cream sauce provides a sharp contrast to the savory flavors of the bacon and steak.
These serving suggestions bring balance and excitement to your meal, making it memorable for you and your guests.
Conclusion
Cooking a bacon-wrapped filet in the oven is a fantastic way to elevate your dinner experience. With just a few simple steps and quality ingredients you can create a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Don’t forget to let your filets rest before serving to keep them juicy and tender. Pair them with delicious sides and sauces for a meal that’s not only satisfying but also memorable.
So next time you’re looking to treat yourself or wow your guests give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need for bacon-wrapped filet mignon?
To make bacon-wrapped filet mignon, you will need high-quality filet mignon steaks (at least 1.5 inches thick), thick-cut bacon (2-3 slices per filet), simple seasonings like salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, and a high-smoke-point cooking oil. These ingredients ensure a delicious and satisfying dish.
How do I prepare the filet mignon for cooking?
Begin by taking the filet mignon out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. Pat the steaks dry to remove excess moisture. Then, wrap each filet with 2-3 slices of thick-cut bacon, securing them with toothpicks or kitchen twine. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
What temperature should I bake the bacon-wrapped filets?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for baking the bacon-wrapped filets. This temperature allows the bacon to crisp up while ensuring the filet is cooked evenly and retains its juiciness.
How long do I need to bake the filets?
Bake the bacon-wrapped filets for about 20-25 minutes. Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the steak and your oven’s efficiency. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check for doneness.
What is the ideal internal temperature for filet mignon?
For medium-rare filet mignon, target an internal temperature of 130°F. For medium, aim for 140°F. If the filets haven’t reached the desired temperature, continue baking in 5-minute increments until achieved.
Why should I let the filets rest before serving?
Allowing the cooked filets to rest for at least 5 minutes helps retain their juices. This step ensures a more flavorful and tender steak when served, enhancing the overall dining experience.
What sides pair well with bacon-wrapped filet mignon?
Great side dishes to accompany bacon-wrapped filet mignon include garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, Caesar salad, and sautéed green beans. These options balance the rich flavors of the steak and complete the meal.
What sauces can I serve with filet mignon?
To elevate your meal, consider serving sauces like red wine reduction, garlic butter, chimichurri sauce, or horseradish cream. These sauces add complementary flavors that enhance the taste of the bacon-wrapped filet mignon.
