Pan-Seared Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon
Taste great, I like mine Medium-Rare and wife likes hers Medium.
Taste great, I like mine Medium-Rare and wife likes hers Medium.
- Carbohydrate 0.388131458299681 g
- Cholesterol 137.43930625327 mg
- Fat 88.3578447303987 g
- Fiber 0.258833330935014 g
- Protein 13.5569331875071 g
- Saturated Fat 37.5669691674475 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (132g)
- Sodium 412.357091675404 mg
- Sugar 0.129298127364666 g
- Trans Fat 10.103039729253 g
- Calories 853 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
- Trim the perimeter of the fillets to remove the large segment of fat that's usually present. Be very careful not to remove any meat. When complete, the entire fillet should be considered edible without further trimming based on your (guest's) preference.
- Cut the fillets into small, round steaks 2-3" in diameter. Each fillet should yield 2 to 3 fillets.
- Add the butter to a 12", oven-safe skillet and begin to melt over low heat.
- Tightly wrap each fillet with one slice of bacon, pinning the bacon to the fillet where the bacon overlaps itself with a single toothpick.
- Add a small dash of salt and pepper to taste on top of each fillet. Flip and repeat.
- Increase the heat under the skillet to medium and then add the fillets.
- Cook for two minutes to sear the meat. Flip the fillets and sear the other side for 1-2 minutes. If possible, very gently nudge the fillets against the edge of the pan just enough to make contact to help sear the bacon during this time. DO NOT squeeze the fillets!
- (Optional) Add just a few crumbles of blue cheese to the top of each steak. Don't overdo this; blue cheese is strong and not the centerpiece of this dish.
- Immediately remove the entire skillet and place it in the oven for 7-10 minutes. This can vary depending on the thickness of the steaks (assumes about 1") and wellness preference. I prefer to eat medium-rare for these small steaks. You can always heat them further.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the fillets to sit for 2 minutes before you move them. This allows time for the juice to re-absorb.
- Gently remove the steaks from the skillet, and then the toothpicks from the steak. Serve immediately.
Pan-Seared Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon: A Weeknight Delight
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and impressive meal can feel like a Herculean task. But I've learned that sometimes, the most satisfying dishes are the simplest. This Pan-Seared Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon recipe is a perfect example. It's elegant enough for a special occasion, yet quick and easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The rich, savory flavor of the bacon perfectly complements the tender, juicy filet mignon, creating a dish that's sure to impress your family and friends – or even just yourself after a long day!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. There's no complex preparation, no exotic ingredients, just a few pantry staples and some high-quality ingredients. I always opt for good quality filet mignon; the difference in taste is truly noticeable. I find the slightly sweet, smoky taste of the bacon perfectly balances the richness of the meat. The optional crumbled gorgonzola adds a fantastic touch of pungent flavor, but it’s entirely optional; the bacon and filet alone are incredibly satisfying. The whole process, from prep to plate, takes under 30 minutes, and let me tell you, that’s a win in my book!
Beyond the Recipe: A Quick Weeknight Ritual
This recipe isn't just about the food; it's about creating a small moment of peace and self-care in the midst of a busy week. The act of carefully preparing and cooking this meal allows me to disconnect from the day's stresses and focus on the simple pleasure of creating something delicious. It's a small ritual that brings a sense of calm and accomplishment to my evenings. The aroma of sizzling bacon and seared meat filling the kitchen is a welcome change from the usual rush and clatter of the workday.
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
While this dish is perfect on its own, I often pair it with a simple side salad and some roasted vegetables. The salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meat, while the roasted vegetables add a touch of earthy sweetness. I sometimes experiment with different herbs and spices; a sprinkle of rosemary or thyme adds a wonderful aromatic depth. You can also adjust the cooking time to achieve your preferred level of doneness for the steak. For a more luxurious meal, consider serving with a creamy mushroom sauce or a red wine reduction.
More than just a Meal: A Moment of Connection
For me, cooking this meal is also a way to connect with my family. The act of preparing and sharing a delicious meal together is a cherished tradition in our home. It's a time when we can disconnect from our screens and reconnect with each other, sharing stories and laughter over a beautifully prepared dinner. This simple recipe becomes more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of the importance of family, connection, and the simple pleasure of sharing a good meal together.
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality ingredients – this makes all the difference!
- Don't overcrowd the pan – cook the fillets in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your liking.
- Let the steak rest before slicing – this allows the juices to redistribute.
So, the next time you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and impressive meal, give this Pan-Seared Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon recipe a try. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that's sure to become a new family favorite. It's more than just food; it's a moment of deliciousness in a busy life. Happy cooking!
