Savory Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon with Blue Cheese Crumbles
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Savory Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon, a dish that marries the richness of tender filet mignon with the smokiness of applewood bacon. The strategic searing technique locks in moisture and creates a delightful contrast with the crispy bacon exterior. Finished in the oven to your preferred doneness, these succulent steaks are topped with a delicate sprinkling of gorgonzola cheese for an unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for special occasions or a refined dinner at home.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
filet mignon steaks
2 ((~16-20 oz. total))
bacon
4-6 ((uncured, applewood smoked preferred))
butter
1 (tablespoon)
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
sea salt
to taste
toothpicks
as needed ((preferably un-dyed))
gorgonzola cheese
1/4 (cup, crumbled (optional))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Trim away any thick fat from the edges of the filet mignon, ensuring the meat remains intact. Aim for an edibility that suits your and your guests' preferences without any further trimming.
3
Slice each filet mignon into rounds approximately 2-3 inches in diameter, yielding 2 to 3 petite steaks per filet.
4
In a 12-inch oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over low heat, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly.
5
Carefully wrap each round steak with a slice of bacon, securing it in place with a toothpick where the bacon overlaps itself.
6
Season the top and bottom of each bacon-wrapped filet with a light dash of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
7
Increase the skillet heat to medium, then add the wrapped fillets.
8
Sear each side for 2 minutes on the first side and 1-2 minutes on the second side. To achieve an even bacon crispness, gently nudge the fillets against the edge of the pan without squeezing them.
9
For an added rich flavor, sprinkle a few crumbles of gorgonzola on top of each filet (optional). Remember, a little goes a long way with this strong cheese flavor.
10
Transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steaks and your desired level of doneness; aim for rare to medium-rare for optimal tenderness.
11
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the filets rest for 2 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to be reabsorbed.
12
Gently extract the steaks from the skillet and carefully remove the toothpicks before serving immediately. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary protein used in this recipe?
The recipe uses two filet mignon steaks, totaling approximately 16-20 ounces.
What type of bacon is recommended for wrapping the filets?
Uncured, applewood smoked bacon is the preferred choice for this dish.
What temperature should the oven be preheated to?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
How should the filet mignon be prepared before slicing?
You should trim away any thick fat from the edges while ensuring the meat remains intact.
How many petite steaks should each filet mignon yield?
Each filet mignon should be sliced into rounds yielding 2 to 3 petite steaks.
What is the ideal diameter for the sliced steak rounds?
The rounds should be approximately 2-3 inches in diameter.
What type of skillet is required for this recipe?
A 12-inch oven-safe skillet is required to transition from the stovetop to the oven.
How do you secure the bacon to the steak?
The bacon is secured by wrapping it around the steak and using a toothpick where it overlaps.
What seasonings are used for the bacon-wrapped filets?
The steaks are seasoned with a light dash of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
At what heat level should the butter be melted?
The butter should be melted over low heat to coat the bottom of the skillet evenly.
How long should the first side of the steak be seared?
The first side should be seared for 2 minutes over medium heat.
How long should the second side of the steak be seared?
The second side should be seared for 1 to 2 minutes.
How can I ensure the bacon gets crispy on the sides?
Gently nudge the fillets against the edge of the pan during searing without squeezing them.
What cheese is recommended for topping the steaks?
Gorgonzola cheese crumbles are recommended as an optional topping.
How much gorgonzola cheese should I use?
The recipe suggests about 1/4 cup total, but reminds users that a little goes a long way.
How long do the steaks need to cook in the oven?
They should stay in the oven for 7-10 minutes depending on thickness and desired doneness.
What level of doneness is recommended for optimal tenderness?
Rare to medium-rare is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
Why is it important to let the filets rest after cooking?
Resting the meat for 2 minutes allows the juices to be reabsorbed into the steak.
Should the toothpicks be removed before serving?
Yes, carefully remove the toothpicks before serving the steaks immediately.
Is the gorgonzola cheese a required ingredient?
No, the gorgonzola cheese is an optional addition for added rich flavor.
What kind of toothpicks should be used?
Preferably un-dyed toothpicks should be used to secure the bacon.
How much butter is needed for the skillet?
One tablespoon of butter is used to coat the skillet.
What is the purpose of the searing technique in this recipe?
Searing locks in moisture and creates a contrast with the crispy bacon exterior.
Can I use regular table salt instead of sea salt?
While the recipe calls for sea salt, you can use table salt, though sea salt is preferred for texture.
What makes this dish 'gourmet'?
The combination of high-quality filet mignon, applewood bacon, and gorgonzola cheese creates a refined flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for a dinner party?
Yes, it is described as perfect for special occasions or a refined dinner at home.
Should the heat be adjusted after melting the butter?
Yes, increase the skillet heat to medium before adding the wrapped fillets for searing.
How do I avoid overcooking the steaks?
By timing the oven stage between 7-10 minutes and aiming for rare to medium-rare.
When should the cheese be added to the steaks?
Sprinkle the crumbles on top of each filet just before transferring the skillet to the oven.
What is the total preparation time for searing?
The total searing time is approximately 3 to 4 minutes per steak.