Carter Wiegand is an expert seafood chef renowned for his grilling expertise. His flair for grilling seafood, particularly delicate varieties such as fish and shrimp, is unparalleled. Carter's signature style blends traditional and innovative grilling methods, making his recipes a favorite among food lovers.
Grilling bacon-wrapped filet mignon is a true delight for any meat lover. The combination of tender filet mignon and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion that is hard to resist. As an expert griller, I'm excited to share with you the optimal method for grilling bacon-wrapped filet mignon to perfection.
Step 1: Choose the Right Cut
Start by selecting high-quality filet mignon cuts from your local butcher or trusted meat supplier. Look for well-marbled steaks with a thickness of around 1.5 to 2 inches. The marbling ensures a juicy and flavorful steak, while the thickness allows for even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
Before wrapping the filet mignon, it's essential to prepare the bacon properly. Use thin-cut bacon slices to ensure they cook thoroughly without overcooking the steak. Partially cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it's slightly browned but still pliable. This step helps render some of the fat and ensures the bacon crisps up nicely on the grill.
Step 3: Wrap the Filet Mignon
Take the partially cooked bacon slices and wrap them tightly around each filet mignon steak. Secure the bacon in place using toothpicks, making sure to insert them through the bacon and into the steak to prevent unraveling during grilling. Aim for a single layer of bacon to ensure it cooks evenly.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (204-232°C). It's crucial to have a hot grill to sear the bacon and lock in those delicious flavors. If you're using a gas grill, preheat with all burners on. For charcoal grills, arrange the coals in a two-zone fire, with one side for direct heat and the other for indirect heat.
Step 5: Sear the Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon
Place the bacon-wrapped filet mignon steaks on the hot grill grates over direct heat. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and browned. This initial sear adds a beautiful char and enhances the smoky flavors. Remember to keep a close eye on the grill to prevent any flare-ups from the bacon fat.
Step 6: Finish with Indirect Heat
Once the bacon is nicely seared, move the filet mignon steaks to the indirect heat side of the grill. Continue grilling with the lid closed for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy: 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare, 135°F (57°C) for medium, and 145°F (63°C) for medium-well.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the bacon-wrapped filet mignon from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Once rested, remove the toothpicks and serve your perfectly grilled bacon-wrapped filet mignon.
Grilling bacon-wrapped filet mignon is a culinary adventure that will impress your family and friends. Remember to choose quality ingredients, preheat the grill, and follow the sear-and-indirect method for optimal results. For more grilling tips and recipes, check out Grill Matey, your ultimate guide to perfect grilling!