When it comes to cooking a tender and juicy filet mignon, wrapping it in bacon can add an extra layer of flavor and texture. However, cooking bacon wrapped filet mignon in the oven can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to determining the right cooking time. In this article, we will explore the factors that affect cooking time, provide a basic recipe, and offer some tips for achieving perfection.
Understanding the Factors that Affect Cooking Time
Before we dive into the cooking time, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect it. These factors include:
Thickness of the Filet Mignon
The thickness of the filet mignon is one of the most critical factors that affect cooking time. A thicker filet will take longer to cook than a thinner one. It’s essential to choose a filet that is at least 1-1.5 inches thick to ensure that it cooks evenly.
Temperature of the Oven
The temperature of the oven also plays a significant role in determining the cooking time. A higher temperature will cook the filet faster, but it may also lead to overcooking. A lower temperature will cook the filet slower, but it may also result in undercooking.
Desired Level of Doneness
The desired level of doneness is another critical factor that affects cooking time. If you prefer your filet rare, it will take less time to cook than if you prefer it medium or well-done.
A Basic Recipe for Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
Here’s a basic recipe for bacon wrapped filet mignon that you can follow:
Ingredients:
- 4 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)
- 12 slices of bacon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the filet mignon with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Wrap each filet with 3 slices of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the bacon wrapped filet mignon for 1-2 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 12-15 minutes or until the filet reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time for Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
The cooking time for bacon wrapped filet mignon will depend on the factors mentioned earlier. Here are some general guidelines for cooking time based on the thickness of the filet and the desired level of doneness:
| Thickness of Filet | Rare | Medium Rare | Medium | Medium Well | Well Done |
| — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1 inch | 8-10 minutes | 10-12 minutes | 12-15 minutes | 15-18 minutes | 18-20 minutes |
| 1.5 inches | 12-15 minutes | 15-18 minutes | 18-20 minutes | 20-22 minutes | 22-25 minutes |
Using a Meat Thermometer
The best way to ensure that your filet mignon is cooked to your desired level of doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Here are the internal temperatures for different levels of doneness:
- Rare: 120°F – 130°F (49°C – 54°C)
- Medium Rare: 130°F – 135°F (54°C – 57°C)
- Medium: 140°F – 145°F (60°C – 63°C)
- Medium Well: 150°F – 155°F (66°C – 68°C)
- Well Done: 160°F – 170°F (71°C – 77°C)
Tips for Achieving Perfection
Here are some tips for achieving perfection when cooking bacon wrapped filet mignon in the oven:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Choose a high-quality filet mignon and thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook the filets one or two at a time to ensure that they cook evenly.
- Use a cast-iron skillet: A cast-iron skillet retains heat well and can sear the bacon nicely.
- Don’t open the oven door too often: Opening the oven door too often can let heat escape and affect the cooking time.
- Let it rest: Let the filet mignon rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Conclusion
Cooking bacon wrapped filet mignon in the oven can be a bit tricky, but with the right guidelines and tips, you can achieve perfection. Remember to consider the thickness of the filet, the temperature of the oven, and the desired level of doneness when determining the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your filet is cooked to your desired level of doneness, and don’t forget to let it rest before slicing. With practice and patience, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time.
What is the ideal internal temperature for cooking filet mignon?
The ideal internal temperature for cooking filet mignon depends on the level of doneness desired. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130-135°F (54-57°C), while medium should be around 140-145°F (60-63°C). It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the filet mignon reaches a safe internal temperature.
It’s also important to note that the internal temperature will continue to rise slightly after the filet mignon is removed from the oven. This is known as carryover cooking, and it’s essential to take it into account when determining the internal temperature. To avoid overcooking, it’s better to err on the side of undercooking slightly, as the filet mignon can always be cooked a bit longer if needed.
How do I prevent the bacon from burning while cooking the filet mignon in the oven?
To prevent the bacon from burning while cooking the filet mignon in the oven, it’s essential to keep an eye on it and adjust the cooking time as needed. One way to prevent burning is to cover the filet mignon with foil for part of the cooking time, which will help prevent the bacon from getting too crispy.
Another way to prevent burning is to use a lower oven temperature, such as 375°F (190°C), which will help cook the filet mignon more slowly and evenly. Additionally, using a thicker cut of bacon can also help prevent burning, as it will take longer to cook through.
Can I use different types of bacon for wrapping the filet mignon?
Yes, you can use different types of bacon for wrapping the filet mignon, depending on your personal preference. Some popular options include applewood-smoked bacon, peppered bacon, and brown sugar bacon. Each type of bacon will give the filet mignon a unique flavor profile, so feel free to experiment and find the one you like best.
When using different types of bacon, keep in mind that some may be more prone to burning than others. For example, applewood-smoked bacon can be quite delicate and may burn more easily, while peppered bacon may be more robust and able to withstand higher temperatures.
How do I ensure the filet mignon is cooked evenly throughout?
To ensure the filet mignon is cooked evenly throughout, it’s essential to cook it at a consistent temperature and to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You should also make sure to cook the filet mignon for a consistent amount of time on each side, which will help prevent it from becoming overcooked or undercooked in certain areas.
Another way to ensure even cooking is to use a cast-iron or oven-safe skillet, which will help distribute the heat evenly and cook the filet mignon consistently. Additionally, you can also rotate the filet mignon halfway through the cooking time to ensure it’s cooked evenly on all sides.
Can I cook the filet mignon in advance and reheat it later?
Yes, you can cook the filet mignon in advance and reheat it later, but it’s essential to do so safely to prevent foodborne illness. To reheat the filet mignon, you can wrap it in foil and heat it in the oven at a low temperature, such as 200°F (90°C), until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
When reheating the filet mignon, make sure to use a food thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature. You should also reheat the filet mignon to the correct temperature within a certain timeframe, usually within two hours of cooking. If you’re reheating the filet mignon after it’s been refrigerated or frozen, make sure to reheat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
What are some popular sides to serve with bacon-wrapped filet mignon?
Some popular sides to serve with bacon-wrapped filet mignon include roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, and creamy mashed potatoes. You can also serve the filet mignon with a side of sautéed spinach or roasted sweet potatoes for a delicious and well-rounded meal.
Other popular sides include garlic bread, roasted root vegetables, and creamed corn. You can also serve the filet mignon with a side of your favorite sauce, such as Béarnaise or peppercorn, to add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
Can I cook the filet mignon in a convection oven?
Yes, you can cook the filet mignon in a convection oven, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly. Convection ovens cook food more quickly and evenly than traditional ovens, so you’ll need to reduce the cooking time by about 25% to prevent overcooking.
When cooking the filet mignon in a convection oven, make sure to use a lower temperature, such as 325°F (165°C), and adjust the cooking time as needed. You should also keep an eye on the filet mignon to ensure it doesn’t overcook, as convection ovens can cook food more quickly than expected.