Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
There's something undeniably special about a perfectly cooked filet mignon, especially when it's wrapped in a layer of crispy, smoky bacon. This dish is a staple of fine dining restaurants, but I'm here to tell you that it's entirely achievable in your own home kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can impress your friends and family with a truly gourmet meal.
I remember the first time I made bacon wrapped filet mignon for my family. It was a special occasion, and I wanted to pull out all the stops. I spent hours researching recipes and techniques, determined to get it just right. And when I finally presented the dish, the reaction was overwhelming. The combination of tender, pink filet mignon and crispy, savory bacon was a revelation.
Since then, I've made this dish countless times, refining my technique and experimenting with different ingredients and flavor combinations. And I'm excited to share my expertise with you, so you can create your own unforgettable bacon wrapped filet mignon experiences.
This recipe is perfect for special occasions, like anniversaries or birthdays, but it's also suitable for a fancy dinner party or a cozy night in with friends. And the best part is that it's surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills.
So if you're looking to elevate your cooking game and impress your loved ones with a truly exceptional meal, look no further than this recipe for bacon wrapped filet mignon. With its rich, indulgent flavors and elegant presentation, it's sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is perfect for special occasions, like anniversaries or birthdays
- It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills
- The combination of crispy bacon and tender filet mignon is a match made in heaven
- The dish is highly customizable, with options for different types of bacon and sauce
- It's a great way to impress your friends and family with a gourmet meal
- The recipe is scalable, so you can make it for a small dinner party or a large crowd
- The leftovers are delicious, and can be used in a variety of creative ways
Why This Recipe Works
The key to a great bacon wrapped filet mignon is in the balance of flavors and textures. The crispy, smoky bacon provides a satisfying crunch, while the tender filet mignon melts in your mouth. And when you add a rich, savory sauce to the mix, the result is truly unforgettable.
One of the most important factors in this recipe is the quality of the ingredients. You'll want to choose a high-quality filet mignon, preferably from a reputable butcher or grocery store. And don't skimp on the bacon, either – thick-cut, applewood-smoked bacon is the perfect choice for this dish.
Another crucial element is the cooking technique. You'll want to cook the filet mignon to the perfect medium-rare, with a nice pink color throughout. And to achieve that, you'll need to use a combination of high and low heat, searing the filet mignon in a hot skillet before finishing it in the oven.
Finally, the sauce is what really brings the dish together. A simple reduction of red wine and beef broth, flavored with a bit of thyme and rosemary, adds a depth and richness to the dish that's hard to beat. And when you serve it all together – the crispy bacon, the tender filet mignon, and the savory sauce – the result is a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to making bacon wrapped filet mignon, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. You'll want to choose the highest-quality filet mignon, bacon, and other ingredients you can find, in order to get the best flavor and texture possible.
Here are the ingredients you'll need for this recipe:
- 4 (6 oz) filet mignon steaksLook for high-quality filet mignon with a good balance of marbling and tenderness. You can ask your butcher to trim the steaks for you, or do it yourself with a sharp knife.
- 12 slices of thick-cut baconThick-cut, applewood-smoked bacon is the perfect choice for this dish. You can also use other types of bacon, such as maple-glazed or brown sugar-cured, for a different flavor profile.
- 2 tbsp olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil with a mild flavor, such as Arbequina or Koroneiki. This will help to bring out the natural flavors of the filet mignon and bacon.
- 1 tsp saltUse a flaky, artisanal salt such as Maldon or Fleur de Sel. This will add a touch of crunch and flavor to the dish.
- 1 tsp black pepperFreshly ground black pepper is essential for this recipe. Use a pepper mill or grind the peppercorns yourself with a mortar and pestle.
- 1 tsp dried thymeDried thyme is a classic herb pairing for filet mignon. You can also use fresh thyme, but be sure to chop it finely before adding it to the dish.
- 1 tsp dried rosemaryDried rosemary adds a piney, herbaceous flavor to the dish. Use a high-quality, fragrant rosemary for the best flavor.
- 1 cup red wineA full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah is perfect for this recipe. You can also use other types of red wine, such as Merlot or Pinot Noir, for a different flavor profile.
- 1 cup beef brothUse a high-quality beef broth with a rich, meaty flavor. You can make your own broth from scratch, or use a store-bought variety.
- 2 tbsp butterUnsalted butter is the best choice for this recipe. You can also use other types of fat, such as olive oil or avocado oil, for a different flavor profile.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
- 1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the filet mignon cooks evenly and at the right temperature.
- 2Season the filet mignon steaks with salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Make sure to coat the steaks evenly, and don't be afraid to use a bit more seasoning if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- 3Wrap each filet mignon steak with 3 slices of bacon, securing the bacon with toothpicks if necessary. This will help the bacon stay in place while the filet mignon cooks.
- 4Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or oven-safe sauté pan over medium-high heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped filet mignon steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- 5Remove the toothpicks from the filet mignon steaks, if using. This will help prevent the toothpicks from getting in the way of the sauce or other ingredients.
- 6Transfer the skillet or sauté pan to the preheated oven and cook the filet mignon for 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the filet mignon, which should be at least 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
- 7While the filet mignon is cooking, prepare the sauce by reducing the red wine and beef broth in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- 8Remove the filet mignon from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
- 9Add the butter to the sauce and stir until melted. This will add a rich, creamy flavor to the sauce and help to bring out the natural flavors of the filet mignon and bacon.
- 10Serve the bacon-wrapped filet mignon steaks with the red wine sauce spooned over the top. You can also serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
- 11Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired. This will add a touch of color and freshness to the dish, and help to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Expert Tips
- Make sure to use high-quality ingredients, including fresh filet mignon and thick-cut bacon.
- Don't overcook the filet mignon – it should be cooked to your desired level of doneness, but still retain a bit of pink color in the center.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the filet mignon is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let the filet mignon rest for a few minutes before serving – this will help the juices redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
- Experiment with different types of bacon and sauce for a unique flavor profile.
- Consider serving the filet mignon with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
- If you're having trouble getting the bacon to crisp up, try broiling the filet mignon for an extra minute or two.
- To make the dish more substantial, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or onions to the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the filet mignon – this can make the meat tough and dry.
- Not using high-quality ingredients – this can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Not letting the filet mignon rest before serving – this can cause the meat to become tough and dry.
- Not using a meat thermometer – this can make it difficult to ensure that the filet mignon is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Not reducing the sauce enough – this can make the sauce too thin and watery.
- Not seasoning the filet mignon enough – this can make the dish taste bland and uninteresting.
Variations and Substitutions
- Try using different types of bacon, such as maple-glazed or brown sugar-cured, for a unique flavor profile.
- Experiment with different types of sauce, such as a peppercorn or mushroom sauce, for a different flavor profile.
- Add some sautéed mushrooms or onions to the sauce for added flavor and texture.
- Use a different type of protein, such as pork tenderloin or chicken breast, for a different twist on the dish.
- Try serving the filet mignon with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
- Consider adding some cheese, such as blue cheese or goat cheese, to the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
- Use a different type of wine, such as white wine or champagne, for a different flavor profile.
What to Serve With Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
Bacon wrapped filet mignon is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides and sauces. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and sautéed mushrooms.
For a more substantial meal, consider serving the filet mignon with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes. The bitterness of the Brussels sprouts pairs perfectly with the richness of the filet mignon, while the sweetness of the sweet potatoes complements the savory flavor of the bacon.
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
If you're not planning to serve the bacon wrapped filet mignon immediately, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply wrap the filet mignon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below.
To freeze the filet mignon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen filet mignon can be stored for up to 3 months at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
To reheat the filet mignon, simply place it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.
It's also worth noting that you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of bacon should I use for this recipe?
Thick-cut, applewood-smoked bacon is the perfect choice for this dish. You can also use other types of bacon, such as maple-glazed or brown sugar-cured, for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the filet mignon is cooked to a safe internal temperature?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the filet mignon is cooked to a safe internal temperature. The internal temperature should be at least 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.
What type of wine should I use for the sauce?
A full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah is perfect for this recipe. You can also use other types of red wine, such as Merlot or Pinot Noir, for a different flavor profile.
Can I substitute the filet mignon with a different type of protein?
Yes, you can substitute the filet mignon with a different type of protein, such as pork tenderloin or chicken breast. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
How do I prevent the bacon from becoming too crispy?
To prevent the bacon from becoming too crispy, make sure to cook it over medium heat and not to overcook it. You can also try wrapping the filet mignon in foil to prevent the bacon from getting too brown.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make this recipe in advance. Simply prepare the filet mignon and sauce, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making this recipe?
Some common mistakes to avoid when making this recipe include overcooking the filet mignon, not using high-quality ingredients, and not letting the filet mignon rest before serving.

Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) filet mignon steaks
- 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the filet mignon cooks evenly and at the right temperature.
- Season the filet mignon steaks with salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Make sure to coat the steaks evenly, and don't be afraid to use a bit more seasoning if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Wrap each filet mignon steak with 3 slices of bacon, securing the bacon with toothpicks if necessary. This will help the bacon stay in place while the filet mignon cooks.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or oven-safe sauté pan over medium-high heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped filet mignon steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the toothpicks from the filet mignon steaks, if using. This will help prevent the toothpicks from getting in the way of the sauce or other ingredients.
- Transfer the skillet or sauté pan to the preheated oven and cook the filet mignon for 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the filet mignon, which should be at least 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
- While the filet mignon is cooking, prepare the sauce by reducing the red wine and beef broth in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Remove the filet mignon from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute and the meat to stay tender.
- Add the butter to the sauce and stir until melted. This will add a rich, creamy flavor to the sauce and help to bring out the natural flavors of the filet mignon and bacon.
- Serve the bacon-wrapped filet mignon steaks with the red wine sauce spooned over the top. You can also serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired. This will add a touch of color and freshness to the dish, and help to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.