Description

Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly cooked filet mignon, its rich, buttery flavor complemented by the smokiness of crispy bacon. This classic dish—often associated with fine dining and special celebrations—brings a sense of luxury and indulgence to your dining table. Originating from the tenderloin cut of beef, filet mignon boasts a beautifully marbled texture, which makes it incredibly tender and flavorful. The addition of bacon not only enhances the taste but also adds an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender steak.

Preparing Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon may seem like a culinary endeavor reserved for restaurants or special occasions, but this dish is surprisingly easy to make at home. With just a handful of ingredients, a bit of technique, and a dash of love, you can elevate your dining experience to gourmet levels. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a celebration, or simply a desire to treat yourself, this dish delivers sophistication without overwhelming complexity.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the delicious journey of making bacon-wrapped filet mignon that will surely impress not only your taste buds but also those you share it with.

Ingredients

• For herb butter:
• Two tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• Half a teaspoon finely diced fresh thyme
• Half a teaspoon finely diced fresh rosemary
• One clove garlic, finely minced
• A pinch of salt and pepper
• For the steak:
• Two filet mignon steaks (eight ounces each and about one and a half inches thick)
• Two slices of regular bacon (not thick-cut)
• One tablespoon olive oil
• One tablespoon steak seasoning

Preparation Method

Start by preheating your oven to a warm 400°F (204°C). This step is crucial as it prepares the cooking environment for a perfectly cooked steak.

While the oven heats, focus on creating your herb-infused butter. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with finely diced thyme, rosemary, and minced garlic. As you mix, take a moment to inhale the aromatic herbs that will add layers of flavor to your dish. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste—this herb butter will not only enhance the filet mignon but also serve as a luxurious topping once your steak is ready.

Next, it's time to season your filet mignon. Using half a tablespoon of steak seasoning per steak ensures a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Generously coat all sides of each steak with the seasoning, pressing down gently to adhere the spices. This step not only flavors the meat but also forms a beautiful crust when seared, which is crucial for a great texture.

Now comes the fun part: wrapping the steaks in bacon. Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around the sides of each filet mignon, ensuring the ends overlap. Secure the bacon with a toothpick where the ends meet. This will help maintain the wrap during cooking, so you get that lovely, crispy bacon crust around every bite.

With your steaks prepped, it’s time to sear them to perfection. Heat a large cast iron or ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil, letting it swirl around to coat the base of the pan. When the oil shimmers—an indicator that it’s ready—place the steaks carefully into the skillet. Sear the first side for about one to two minutes until you see a golden-brown crust forming. The sizzle is music to your ears; it’s a good sign you’re on the right track.

Flip the steaks to sear the other side for another one to two minutes. The goal is to build that beautiful crust that will lock in the rich flavors.

But don’t forget the bacon! After searing both sides, take one steak and place it on a clean plate. Using tongs, hold the second steak on its side to sear the bacon edges, rotating it to ensure all bacon edges are cooked evenly—this should take about 30 seconds to one minute per side. This step is what transforms your dish from great to spectacular, as the bacon crisps up beautifully.

It’s time to let the oven do its magic. Return both steaks to the skillet and insert an oven-safe meat thermometer into the thickest part of one steak for accurate temperature readings. Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for approximately eight to twelve minutes. Keep a close eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare doneness. Remember that the temperature will continue to rise about five degrees after removing them from the oven due to carryover cooking.

Once your filet mignon reaches the desired doneness, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. The aroma that envelops your kitchen at this point is nothing short of divine. Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and lavish each one with a dollop of your prepared herb garlic butter. Don’t skimp on this step—this is where the magic happens, as the butter melts into a luscious sauce.

To allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, tent them lightly with aluminum foil and let them rest for five minutes. This crucial step ensures each bite is juicy and flavorful.

Tips and Conclusion

While your filet mignon makes a star appearance, consider pairing it with delightful side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Roasted asparagus with lemon, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple arugula salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette will complement the rich flavors of the steak beautifully. Alternatively, for a twist, you can serve it with sautéed mushrooms or a rich red wine reduction sauce on the side.

If you have leftovers (which is rare), store the cooked filet mignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can be a delicate process; place the steak in a preheated oven at a low temperature to gently warm it up without overcooking.
As you plate your exquisite Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon, take a moment to appreciate the artistry of your home cooking. The tender, juicy steak wrapped in crisp, salty bacon paired with the fragrant herb butter creates a culinary experience that is as delightful to prepare as it is to savor.

Sharing this dish with loved ones will undoubtedly make for lasting memories around the dinner table. Once you've mastered this recipe, consider trying your hand at other flavorful steak dishes or experimenting with different herb combinations for your butter. From garlic and parsley to blue cheese or horseradish, the possibilities are endless.

Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family—after all, who doesn’t want to impress others with their culinary prowess? Explore our other delightful recipes that can accompany your steak or inspire your next meal. With a little creativity and love, every meal can become a special occasion. Happy cooking!