How to Cook Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon on Stove

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Allure of Filet Mignon
3. Preparing for Success
4. Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon on the Stove
5. Tips for the Perfect Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
6. What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
7. Frequently Asked Questions
8. Conclusion

Introduction

Imagine the perfect evening: dim lights, soft music, and a dinner that embodies the essence of indulgence. What could be more satisfying than a perfectly cooked bacon-wrapped filet mignon? This sumptuous dish, which combines a tender cut of beef — the filet mignon — with the smoky richness of bacon, is not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or celebrating a special occasion, learning how to cook bacon-wrapped filet mignon on the stove will elevate your culinary skills and impress your guests.

This blog post aims to guide you through the step-by-step process of preparing this exquisite steak dish right on your stovetop. You’ll learn about the best ingredients to use, the technique to ensure a crispy bacon wrap while keeping the filet juicy and tender, and how to master the cooking times for your preferred level of doneness. By the end of this post, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.

Let’s dive into the artistry of cooking bacon-wrapped filet mignon, highlighting the importance of quality ingredients, particularly the beef you choose, which can be sourced directly from trusted providers such as Land and Sea Delivery. Their commitment to fresh, local, and premium meats ensures that each bite of your filet will be as delightfully flavorful as it is tender.

The Allure of Filet Mignon

What Is Filet Mignon?

Filet mignon is a revered cut of beef that comes from the tenderloin, a muscle located along the spine. Renowned for its buttery texture and rich flavor, filet mignon is often regarded as the most luxurious steak option on menus across the globe. Its tenderness makes it perfect for various cooking methods, but when wrapped in bacon, it gains an extra layer of complexity and flavor.

The Perfect Pairing: Bacon

The addition of bacon to filets serves more than just flavor. The bacon's fat renders during cooking, self-basting the steak, ensuring it remains juicy while imparting a smoky, savory essence. When choosing bacon, it’s essential to opt for a cut that balances thickness; thin-cut bacon typically renders properly without overcooking the steak.

Why Wrap Filet Mignon in Bacon?

Wrapping filet mignon in bacon not only enhances its flavor profile but also adds visual appeal. The contrast between the crispy bacon and the tender beef creates a gourmet experience. Furthermore, this preparation technique allows the bacon to provide moisture to the filet, ensuring it doesn’t dry out while cooking.

Preparing for Success

Ingredient Selection

To achieve the highest quality result, sourcing the right ingredients is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Filet Mignon: Look for cuts around 1.5 to 2 inches thick for optimal cooking.
2. Bacon: Choose thin-cut bacon to achieve a perfect crisp.
3. Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning with precision.
4. Olive Oil or Canola Oil: Opt for oils with high smoke points for better searing.
5. Butter: For basting, which enhances flavor and browning.
6. Fresh Herbs and Garlic (optional): Ingredients like rosemary or thyme make for an excellent flavor boost.

Focusing on the quality of your filet mignon is paramount. Sourcing from suppliers like Land and Sea Delivery not only guarantees you premium meats but also connects you with the local artisan community dedicated to sustainable practices. You can explore their beef selection to find the best filet mignon for your special dish here: Land and Sea Delivery Beef Selection.

Equipment Needed

To replicate a steakhouse cooking experience at home, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for achieving that perfect sear.
• Tongs: To handle the steak without piercing it and losing juices.
• Digital Meat Thermometer: This tool ensures you reach your desired level of doneness accurately.
• Toothpicks or Butcher's Twine: For securing the bacon while cooking.

Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon on the Stove

Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s walk through the cooking process step-by-step.

Step 1: Preparing the Filets

1. Room Temperature: Remove your filet mignon from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to let it reach room temperature. This helps in cooking it evenly.
2. Trimming (if necessary): If needed, trim any silver skin from your filet mignon for aesthetics and better texture.
3. Seasoning: Generously season both sides of the steak with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This amplifies the flavor of the meat and creates a delicious crust.

Step 2: Wrapping the Filets in Bacon

1. Wrap: Take thin-cut bacon strips and wrap them tightly around each filet mignon, overlapping slightly. Each filet will typically need around 1.5 to 2 strips of bacon.
2. Secure: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the bacon tightly in place. Be sure to remove toothpicks before serving for safety.

Step 3: Searing

1. Preheat Your Skillet: Place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers but doesn’t smoke.
2. Sear the Filets: Place the bacon-wrapped filets in the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. It’s important not to move the steak too much while it sears to achieve a good crust.
3. Sear the Edges: Use your tongs to hold the filets upright and sear the edges where the bacon is wrapped for about 30 seconds each to ensure it's crisp all around.

Step 4: Finishing in the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: While searing, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
2. Transfer Skillet: Carefully transfer the cast iron skillet directly to the preheated oven. Ensure you use oven mitts as the skillet will be hot.
3. Cook to Desired Doneness:
   • Rare: 120-125°F (4-5 minutes)
   • Medium Rare: 130-135°F (5-6 minutes)
   • Medium: 140-145°F (6-7 minutes)
   • Medium Well: 150-155°F (7-8 minutes)
   • Well Done: 160°F+ (8-10 minutes)

Step 5: Resting and Serving

1. Resting Time: Once done, remove the skillet from the oven, and place the filet onto a cutting board or serving plate. Tent with foil and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
2. Finishing Touch: While the steak is resting, you may prepare a garlic herb butter to drizzle on top for added flavor. Mix softened butter with minced garlic and herbed seasoning.
3. Serve: Carefully remove any toothpicks and plate your filet, adding any garnishes or sauces as desired.

Tips for the Perfect Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon

1. Choosing the Right Bacon: Aim for bacon that has a good meat-to-fat ratio. Avoid thick-cut bacon, as it may not render well in the cooking time allotted for the filet.
2. Don’t Skip the Resting Period: This is crucial to keeping steaks juicy. Cutting into them too soon can cause those delicious juices to run out, leaving you with a dry steak.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer: Achieving the perfect doneness is relatively simple with a digital thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak to ensure accuracy.
4. Experiment with Flavors: Don’t shy away from experimenting with spices or herb blends in your seasoning mix. A bit of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of fresh rosemary can elevate the dish further.
5. Sear Before the Oven: For added flavor, consider basting your steaks with the rendered bacon fat or some butter during the last minute of cooking.

What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon

Pair your impressive bacon-wrapped filet mignon with classic steakhouse sides. Here are some tried-and-true ideas to complement your meal:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the steak.
• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled asparagus adds freshness and a crunchy contrast to the tender filet.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with balsamic glaze or bacon, they give an earthy flavor profile that balances the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Sauteed mushrooms in garlic butter add umami and enhance the overall flavor of your meal.

Your culinary adventure doesn't end here; there's an extensive range of premium meats and seafood available at Land and Sea Delivery should you wish to explore more culinary delights and enhance your home dining experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my bacon not crispy?

If your bacon isn't crispy, it may be because it wasn't cooked long enough or the wrong thickness was used. Ensure you’re using thin-cut bacon, which crisps up nicely.

How do I achieve the perfect doneness for the filet mignon?

Invest in a digital meat thermometer – it’s the best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your exact preference. Refer to the cooking times provided in this guide.

Can I prepare bacon-wrapped filet mignon ahead of time?

Yes, you can wrap the filets in bacon and season them a few hours in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

What if I don't have a cast iron skillet?

Any heavy-bottomed, oven-safe skillet should suffice. If it's not oven-safe, you can sear on the stove and then transfer your steaks to a preheated baking sheet.

How do I store leftovers?

Cool the filets completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Cooking bacon-wrapped filet mignon on the stove is an exciting culinary endeavor that promises to impress. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, you can prepare a delightful dish that rivals those served at high-end restaurants. Each bite offers the savory crunch of bacon and the tender, flavorful beef that makes filet mignon so celebrated. So next time you want to make an occasion memorable or simply indulge in a hearty meal, remember the steps outlined here, pick some high-quality filet mignon from Land and Sea Delivery and savor the culinary joy of creating this sumptuous dish. Enjoy your cooking adventure!