How to Cook Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon in the Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide
When it comes to impressing your dinner guests or special someone, few dishes are as decadent and delicious as bacon-wrapped filet mignon cooked to perfection in the oven. This mouthwatering combination of tender filet mignon wrapped in crispy bacon is sure to wow anyone’s taste buds. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of cooking bacon-wrapped filet mignon in the oven, ensuring a stress-free and mouthwatering meal.
What You Need to Know Before Getting Started
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s cover some basics to ensure success:
• Freshness matters: Use fresh, high-quality filet mignon for the best results.
• Temperature control: Cook at a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process.
• Thermometer is essential: Use a thermometer to check internal temperatures.
Preparation
Preheating your oven and preparing your ingredients are crucial steps in cooking bacon-wrapped filet mignon:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Yes, you read that right – 400°F (200°C) for the best results.
- Prepare the filet mignon: Bring the filet mignon to room temperature by leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- Wrap in bacon: Cut 2-3 slices of thick-cut bacon and wrap it around the filet mignon, securing it with toothpicks if necessary. Make sure to wrap it snugly, leaving a small gap at the top.
- Season the bacon: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the bacon.
- Drizzle with oil: Drizzle olive oil on the bacon, making sure it’s well-coated.
Cooking
Now it’s time to put your dish in the oven:
- Place the wrapped filet mignon: Position the bacon-wrapped filet mignon in a shallow baking dish, seam-side down.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes: Place the dish in the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
- Finish with broiling: Broil the filet mignon for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a crispy, caramelized crust.
Let it Rest
After cooking, let the filet mignon rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving:
- Rest for 5-7 minutes: Remove the dish from the oven and let the filet mignon rest for 5-7 minutes.
- Tent with foil: Cover the dish with foil to retain heat and moisture.
- Slice and serve: Slice the filet mignon against the grain and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
To take your bacon-wrapped filet mignon to the next level, consider these tips and variations:
- Additional flavors: Add garlic powder, paprika, or other herbs and spices to the bacon for extra flavor.
- Glazing: Brush the filet mignon with a mixture of brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Try different cooking methods: Experiment with different cooking methods, such as pan-searing or sous vide, for a unique twist.
Table of Cooking Times
Here’s a helpful table to keep in mind when cooking your bacon-wrapped filet mignon:
Temperature | Cooking Time |
---|---|
Rare | 10-12 minutes |
Medium-Rare | 12-15 minutes |
Medium | 15-18 minutes |
Well-Done | 20-25 minutes |
In conclusion, cooking bacon-wrapped filet mignon in the oven is a simple yet impressive way to create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. By following these step-by-step instructions and tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a culinary masterpiece that will leave your dinner guests wanting more. Bon appétit!