How to Cook Bacon Wrapped Filet in Air Fryer: A Delicious Guide

If you've been searching for the best way on how to cook bacon wrapped filet in air fryer, look no further! This detailed and engaging recipe article is designed to provide BBQ enthusiasts and food lovers with all the tips and tricks necessary to create a mouthwatering bacon-wrapped filet. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, our guide will show you step-by-step how to make this delectable dish in no time.

The Magic of the Air Fryer

Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying without sacrificing flavor or texture. The key to their success lies in their ability to circulate hot air around the food, cooking it evenly while achieving a crispy exterior. This technology makes them perfect for creating dishes like a bacon-wrapped filet, where you want a juicy, tender interior with a savory, crispy bacon exterior. If you're new to air frying, you might want to check out What is an Air Fryer to get a better understanding of this versatile kitchen appliance.

Why Choose a Bacon Wrapped Filet?

Bacon-wrapped filets are a popular choice because they combine the rich, savory flavors of bacon with the tender, juicy texture of a filet mignon. This combination creates a gourmet dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, when cooked in an air fryer, you can enjoy this indulgence with less guilt, knowing that you're avoiding the excess oils often used in traditional cooking methods. If you're interested in grilling techniques, you might also enjoy reading Grill Like Pro.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Filet Mignon

When selecting a filet mignon for this recipe, look for cuts that are well-marbled and have a bright red color. The marbling ensures that the meat will be tender and flavorful, while the bright color indicates freshness. Aim for filets that are about 1.5 to 2 inches thick, as these will cook evenly in the air fryer.

Bacon

Opt for thin-cut bacon to wrap your filet. Thin-cut bacon will cook more evenly and crisply in the air fryer, ensuring that every bite is perfectly balanced. You can choose standard bacon or go for flavored varieties like maple or peppered bacon, depending on your taste preferences.

Seasonings

Seasonings are crucial for enhancing the flavors of your bacon-wrapped filet. A simple combination of salt, pepper, and garlic powder works wonders, but feel free to get creative with your favorite herbs and spices. Some great options include thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, or even a hint of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

Preparing Your Ingredients

Step 1: Seasoning the Filet

Begin by patting the filets dry with a paper towel. This step is important as it helps the seasonings adhere better to the meat. Generously season both sides of the filet with salt, pepper, and your choice of other seasonings. Allow the meat to rest and absorb the flavors for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the bacon.

Step 2: Wrapping with Bacon

Take one or two strips of bacon, depending on the size of your filet, and wrap them around the sides of the meat. Ensure that the bacon overlaps slightly to secure it in place. For extra security, you can use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place. Just be sure to remove them before serving.

Step 3: Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400F (200C). Preheating is essential as it ensures that the air fryer reaches the right temperature for cooking the bacon-wrapped filet evenly. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

Cooking the Bacon Wrapped Filet in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Arranging the Filets in the Air Fryer

Once your air fryer is preheated, carefully place the bacon-wrapped filets in the basket. Make sure to leave some space between them to allow for proper air circulation. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the filets in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Step 2: Cooking Time and Temperature

Cook the bacon-wrapped filets at 400F (200C) for 12-15 minutes for medium-rare doneness. If you prefer your steak more well-done, increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes. It's a good idea to flip the filets halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning on all sides.

Step 3: Checking for Doneness

To ensure your filets are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the temperature should read 135F (57C), while medium should be around 145F (63C). Keep in mind that the filets will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the air fryer, so it's best to take them out a few degrees before reaching your desired doneness. If you enjoy trying different cooking techniques, you might like Skillet vs Scrambler.

Serving Your Bacon Wrapped Filet

Once your bacon-wrapped filets are cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and flavorful bite with every forkful. Serve your filets alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Pairing Suggestions

Red Wine

A robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of a bacon-wrapped filet. The tannins in the wine complement the savory notes of the bacon and the tender, juicy steak, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Vegetables

Roasted or steamed vegetables are a perfect accompaniment to bacon-wrapped filets. Consider serving them with asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a delicious and balanced meal. The natural sweetness of the vegetables contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the steak and bacon.

Potatoes

Potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with bacon-wrapped filets. You can opt for creamy mashed potatoes, crispy roasted potatoes, or even a loaded baked potato for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Tips for Success

Using an Air Fryer

To achieve the best results when cooking bacon-wrapped filets in an air fryer, it's important to follow a few key tips. First, ensure your air fryer is preheated to the correct temperature. This will help the filets cook evenly and develop a crispy bacon exterior. Additionally, make sure to leave space between the filets in the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation. For more tips and tools on grilling, you can check out Grilling Tools.

Seasoning

Don't be afraid to get creative with your seasonings! While a simple blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder works beautifully, experimenting with different herbs and spices can add a unique twist to your bacon-wrapped filets. Some great options include smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Checking for Doneness

Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure your bacon-wrapped filets are cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remember that the internal temperature of the filet will continue to rise slightly after being removed from the air fryer, so aim to take them out a few degrees before reaching your preferred temperature.

Cleaning and Maintenance

After enjoying your delicious bacon-wrapped filets, it's important to clean your cookware and maintain your kitchen tools. For your air fryer, refer to the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning. Typically, you can remove the basket and any removable parts for washing with warm, soapy water. If your air fryer has stainless steel components, you may want to use a stainless steel cleaner to keep it in top condition.

For your cutting board, especially if it's wooden, applying cutting board conditioner can help maintain its longevity and prevent it from drying out or cracking. A good set of well-maintained knives can make all the difference in your cooking experience, so be sure to keep them sharp and clean.

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Final Thoughts

Learning how to cook bacon-wrapped filet in an air fryer opens up a world of delicious possibilities for your culinary repertoire. With the perfect combination of tender filet mignon and crispy bacon, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. By following our detailed guide and using high-quality ingredients and kitchen tools, you'll be well on your way to creating a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!