Bacon Wrapped Filet Air Fryer Recipe : A Comprehensive Guide

A mouthwatering, tender filet mignon embraced by crispy, savory bacon – the bacon wrapped filet air fryer recipe is a match made in culinary heaven. This article will take you on a gastronomic journey, delving into the food science, culinary details, selection, cleaning, preparation, tips, variations, doneness checks, and of course, providing you with a delightful recipe. So, let’s buckle up our aprons and explore this delectable dish!

Understanding the Food Science behind Bacon Wrapped Filet

Food science plays a significant role in the cooking process, and understanding it helps us create the perfect dish. In the case of bacon-wrapped filet, the key is combining two ingredients that complement each other well – bacon and filet mignon.

The marbling in filet mignon imparts a rich, juicy flavor, while the bacon adds a smoky, salty taste. Additionally, wrapping the filet in bacon helps retain moisture during the cooking process, preventing it from drying out.

Culinary Details: Selecting the Best Ingredients

To ensure a sublime outcome for your bacon wrapped filet, it’s essential to select the best ingredients. Here are a few culinary details to consider:

Filet Mignon

Opt for high-quality filet mignon that is fresh, well-marbled, and of adequate thickness. Look for cuts that are evenly shaped and free from excessive connective tissue. This will guarantee that your steak is tender, flavorful, and cooks evenly.

Bacon

Choose bacon that is thick-cut and flavorful. Look for bacon with a good balance of fat and meat, as this will render a beautiful texture and taste. Applewood or hickory smoked bacon works exceptionally well, adding a delightful smoky aroma to the dish.

Cleaning and Preparing the Filet

Preparing the filet before wrapping it in bacon ensures optimal results. Follow these steps:

1. Begin by rinsing the filet under cool water to remove any undesired residue. Pat it dry gently using paper towels.
2. Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the filet using a sharp knife. This will help enhance the flavor and prevent any tough or chewy portions.
3. Season the filet with your favorite blend of spices, such as salt, black pepper, garlic powder, or a steak seasoning rub. Allow the filet to absorb the flavors for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate it overnight for a more intense taste infusion.

Tips for Wrapping the Filet with Bacon

Wrapping the filet with bacon requires some finesse to achieve that perfect balance between crispiness and tenderness. Consider these tips for a flawless outcome:

1. Use bacon slices that are slightly longer than the length of the filet. This will ensure that the bacon wraps around the steak securely without unraveling during cooking.
2. Avoid overlapping the bacon slices excessively, as this may hinder the cooking process and prevent the bacon from becoming crispy.
3. Secure the bacon with toothpicks to hold it in place while it cooks. Remember to remove them before serving to avoid any culinary mishaps.

Getting Started with the Air Fryer

The air fryer is a fantastic appliance that allows you to achieve a crispy exterior while retaining the juicy interior of your bacon-wrapped filet. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent any sticking.

Cooking the Bacon Wrapped Filet in the Air Fryer

Cooking times and temperatures may vary depending on the thickness of your filet and personal preference. Here’s a general guideline:

1. Carefully place the bacon-wrapped filets into the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between them to ensure even cooking.
2. Cook the filets for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning and crispiness.
3. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. For a medium-rare steak, aim for around 130°F (55°C), while medium would be around 140°F (60°C). Adjust the cooking time accordingly if you prefer your steak more well-done.

Doneness Checks: The Art of Perfection

Determining the doneness of your bacon wrapped filet is vital to ensure it is cooked to your desired taste. Here are a few techniques to help you achieve perfection:

1. The Finger Test: Gently press the center of the filet with your finger. If it feels soft and squishy, it is rare. If it springs back slightly, it is medium-rare. Firmer and less yielding meat indicates a more well-done filet.
2. Instant-Read Thermometer: Using an instant-read thermometer guarantees precision. Insert the thermometer in the thickest part of the filet to measure the internal temperature. This method provides the most accurate results.

Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Filet Air Fryer

Now that we’ve covered the ins and outs of bacon wrapped filet, it’s time to dive into a mouthwatering, step-by-step recipe. Feel free to make any adjustments to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients:

• 4 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)
• 8 slices of bacon
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Optional: your choice of spices or steak seasoning rub

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the filet mignon under cool water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Trim any excess fat or silver skin from the filets.
4. Season the filets with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or steak rub. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for a bolder flavor.
5. Wrap two slices of bacon around each filet securely, ensuring they slightly overlap.
6. Secure the bacon with toothpicks.
7. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil.
8. Place the bacon-wrapped filets in the air fryer, leaving space between them.
9. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
10. Once done, remove the filets from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes.
11. Carefully remove the toothpicks and serve your sizzling bacon wrapped filet alongside your favorite sides.

Variations and Tips for Customization

Although the bacon-wrapped filet in the air fryer is already a delightful dish, you can experiment with variations and customization options to elevate its flavors. Consider these ideas:

• Gourmet Cheese-Stuffed Filet: Before wrapping the filets with bacon, create a pocket and stuff them with your favorite gourmet cheese, such as blue cheese, goat cheese, or a mixture of parmesan and herbs.
• Sweet and Spicy Glaze: Brush the filets with a tantalizing glaze made from a combination of honey, soy sauce, dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes before cooking. This will add a delightful sweet and spicy flavor profile.
• Garlic and Herb Butter Baste: Prepare a compound butter by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme), salt, and pepper. Baste the filets during cooking to impart a luxurious, herb-infused decadence.

In Conclusion

The bacon wrapped filet air fryer recipe lets you indulge in a succulent and flavorful dish that combines the best of two worlds: tender filet mignon and crispy bacon. By understanding the culinary details, selecting the finest ingredients, mastering the art of wrapping, and utilizing the air fryer, you can create a dish that will impress your taste buds and those of your lucky guests. So, get your apron on, fire up that air fryer, and savor the perfection that is a bacon wrapped filet. The delightful combination of textures and flavors awaits you!

Sources

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon – Courtney’s Sweets

Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon in Garlic Butter (+VIDEO) – Carlsbad Cravings

Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon | YellowBlissRoad.com

FAQS On Bacon Wrapped Filet Air Fryer Recipe

What Is An Air Fryer?

An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulating around the food to cook it, delivering a crispy and delicious texture similar to deep frying but with much less oil.

Why Use An Air Fryer For A Bacon-wrapped Filet Recipe?

Using an air fryer for a bacon-wrapped filet recipe ensures a healthier cooking method as it requires minimal oil while still achieving a crispy and flavorful bacon crust.

Can Any Type Of Bacon Be Used For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of bacon for this recipe, such as streaky bacon or turkey bacon, depending on your personal preference or dietary restrictions.

How Long Does It Take To Cook A Bacon-wrapped Filet In An Air Fryer?

The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the filet and the desired level of doneness. In general, it takes around 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for a medium-rare bacon-wrapped filet in an air fryer.

Do I Need To Preheat The Air Fryer Before Cooking?

Yes, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before cooking to ensure even and consistent heat distribution, which helps achieve a perfectly cooked bacon-wrapped filet.

Should I Marinate The Filet Before Wrapping It With Bacon?

Marinating the filet is optional but can enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. You can use your favorite marinade or even a simple mixture of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Can I Use Frozen Filets For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen filets; however, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. It is best to thaw the filets before wrapping them with bacon to ensure even cooking throughout.