There’s something irresistible about the combination of crispy bacon and tender steak that makes my heart skip a beat. As soon as I wrap a juicy filet mignon in strips of bacon, I know I’ve transformed a simple dinner into a moment of indulgence. This Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon is my go-to when I crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
With the air fryer’s magic, the bacon crisps to perfection while locking in the savory flavor of the steak. Top it off with a luscious Scotch mushroom sauce that adds a sophisticated touch, and you’ve got a dish that feels like fine dining. Whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a celebration with friends, this recipe is quick and easy, allowing you to impress with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this flavorful experience that brings a restaurant-quality dinner right to your table!
Why is this Bacon-Wrapped Steak a Must-Try?
Indulgent Flavor: The rich taste of bacon combined with the tender filet mignon creates a mouthwatering harmony that elevates any meal.
Air-Fryer Magic: This cooking method ensures even crispiness while keeping the steak juicy—no need to watch over the stove!
Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have a gourmet meal in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Elevated Experience: The Scotch mushroom sauce adds a layer of sophistication that will impress your family and guests alike, making every bite feel like a celebration.
Versatile Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, giving you endless options to customize your meal and satisfy everyone at the table.
Bacon-Wrapped Steak Ingredients
• Ready to bring the indulgence of Bacon-Wrapped Steak to your kitchen? Here’s what you need!
For the Steak
- Bacon strips – Adds incredible flavor and moisture; consider turkey bacon for a healthier alternative.
- Beef tenderloin steaks (5 ounces each) – Tender and juicy, ensure they are at room temperature for even cooking.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor beautifully; kosher salt is best for surface coverage.
- Coarsely ground pepper – For a hint of spice; freshly ground yields a more robust taste.
For the Mushroom Sauce
- Sliced baby portobello mushrooms (2 cups) – Brings rich umami and texture; you can use cremini or button mushrooms if preferred.
- Dried thyme (¼ teaspoon) – Infuses the sauce with a fragrant note; fresh thyme boosts the flavor even further.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, divided) – Enriches the sauce; swap with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- Olive oil (1½ teaspoons) – Ideal for sautéing; feel free to use any cooking oil you prefer.
- Scotch (¼ cup) – Adds a distinctive flavor; bourbon makes a suitable substitute if needed.
- Diet ginger ale (½ cup) – Adds a sweet balance to the savory; regular ginger ale works well too.
- Brown sugar (1 tablespoon) – Provides a touch of sweetness; honey or maple syrup can be used as alternatives.
- Reduced-sodium soy sauce (1½ teaspoons) – Deepens the sauce flavor; tamari is great for gluten-free diets.
- Rubbed sage (¼ teaspoon) – Offers warm herbal notes; dried rosemary can replace sage beautifully.
How to Make Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F. This ensures the bacon will start to crisp up nicely and the steak will cook evenly.
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Prepare the Bacon: Cook the bacon slices in a single layer inside the air fryer for about 3-4 minutes until they’re partially cooked. Drain them on paper towels to absorb excess grease.
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Season the Steaks: Raise the air fryer temperature to 375°F. Generously season the beef tenderloin steaks with kosher salt and coarsely ground pepper to enhance their flavor.
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Wrap and Secure: Take each steak and carefully wrap it with a strip of the cooked bacon. If needed, secure the bacon ends with toothpicks to keep everything together while cooking.
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Cook the Steaks: Place the bacon-wrapped steaks into the air fryer basket. Cook for 7-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they reach your desired doneness (135°F for medium-rare).
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Prepare the Mushroom Sauce: In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the sliced baby portobello mushrooms and dried thyme until they’re tender and fragrant.
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Add Scotch and Simmer: Pour in the Scotch, diet ginger ale, brown sugar, reduced-sodium soy sauce, and rubbed sage. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until it reduces by half. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted.
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Serve: Plate your delicious bacon-wrapped filet mignon, generously spoon the rich mushroom sauce on top, and savor every bite!
Optional: Serve with buttery mashed potatoes or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Bacon-Wrapped Steak
Fridge: Store leftover bacon-wrapped steak in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing to preserve flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bacon-wrapped steak. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the bacon remains crispy.
Proper Storage: To keep the flavors intact, avoid stacking the pieces directly on top of each other. This helps maintain the texture and prevents sogginess in your delicious bacon-wrapped steak.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and wrap the beef tenderloin steaks with bacon up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them in the refrigerator. Additionally, the mushroom sauce can be prepared a day ahead; simply store it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, cook the prepared steaks straight from the fridge in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes until they reach your desired doneness. For the best flavor and texture, avoid freezing the wrapped steaks, as this may affect the quality of the bacon. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort, making busy weeknights a breeze!
Expert Tips for Bacon-Wrapped Steak
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches 135°F for the perfect medium-rare doneness without overcooking.
- Bacon Caution: Precook the bacon just enough so it crisps up when wrapped around the steak—avoiding overcooking ensures a nice texture.
- Sauce Thickness: If your mushroom sauce turns out too thin, sprinkle in a little cornstarch while simmering to thicken it to your desired consistency.
- Even Cooking: Let the beef tenderloin steaks come to room temperature before cooking; this helps them cook evenly for the best bacon-wrapped steak experience.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! A good coating of salt and pepper enhances the flavor of both the steak and bacon.
Bacon-Wrapped Steak Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with some delightful twists!
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Low-Calorie Bacon: Substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon or plant-based bacon to lighten the dish while still enjoying that crispy flavor.
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Steak Alternatives: Swap the filet mignon for chicken breasts or pork tenderloin for a different yet equally satisfying meal. Each option brings its unique taste.
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Bold Herb Swap: Fresh rosemary or thyme can be used instead of dried thyme, adding a vibrant aroma and flavor to your mushroom sauce.
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Umami Boost: Mix in a tablespoon of miso paste to your mushroom sauce for an added depth of savory goodness that will impress any palate.
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Sweetness Variation: Instead of brown sugar, try maple syrup or agave nectar for a touch of natural sweetness that complements the umami flavors beautifully.
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Ginger Note: Enhance your sauce with fresh ginger or a hint of ginger paste instead of ginger ale for a zesty kick and warmth that lingers on the tongue.
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Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a swirling heat of chipotle in adobo for an exciting back-end heat that livens up your meal.
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Creamy Option: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream at the end for a luscious richness that elevates your mushroom sauce to a new level of decadence.
What to Serve with Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon?
Nothing elevates your special meal like thoughtfully paired sides that enhance the flavors of your bacon-wrapped delight.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes beautifully complements the savory steak, providing a comforting, indulgent pairing.
- Grilled Asparagus: This adds a fresh crunch and earthiness that contrasts wonderfully with the crispy bacon and tender filet. Just a drizzle of lemon juice brightens it up!
- Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens tossed with a light vinaigrette add a refreshing balance to the richness of the steak. Feel free to mix in seasonal veggies or fruits for a pop of color.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly nutty flavor pairs harmoniously with the bacon. Roasting brings out their sweetness, creating a delightful combination with the savory steak.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up any remaining mushroom sauce on your plate, garlic bread adds a hearty and aromatic touch that complements the meal magnificently.
- Pinot Noir: This light-bodied red wine enhances the flavors of the steak, offering delicate fruit notes that align perfectly with the savory richness of the dish.
Bacon-Wrapped Steak Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon is best for wrapping filet mignon?
I recommend using regular bacon strips for that classic savory flavor and moisture. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey bacon works surprisingly well, too. Just remember that it may cook a bit differently, so keep an eye on the texture!
How should I store leftover bacon-wrapped filet mignon?
Store your leftover bacon-wrapped steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it to preserve all that wonderful flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.
Can I freeze bacon-wrapped filet mignon?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Your bacon-wrapped steak will be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if the bacon is not crispy after cooking?
If the bacon doesn’t crisp up to your liking, you can pop the bacon-wrapped steaks back into the air fryer at 400°F for an additional 2-3 minutes or until you achieve the desired crispness. Just be vigilant to avoid overcooking the steak during this process—check for doneness!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re cooking for guests with specific dietary needs, consider using alternatives. Use turkey bacon for a lower-fat option or even go for a gluten-free soy sauce like tamari for the mushroom sauce. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens, and feel free to substitute any ingredients as needed based on dietary restrictions.
Why should I let the steaks rest after cooking?
Letting your steaks rest for about 5-10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy bite. If you dive in too soon, those juices might escape, leaving you with a dryer steak. Patience is a virtue here for the ultimate bacon-wrapped steak experience!
Bacon-Wrapped Steak Perfection: Easy Air-Fryer Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F to ensure even cooking.
- Cook bacon slices in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes, then drain on paper towels.
- Season steaks with kosher salt and coarsely ground pepper.
- Wrap each steak with a strip of bacon and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Cook the wrapped steaks in the air fryer for 7-10 minutes to desired doneness.
- Melt butter with olive oil in a skillet, sauté mushrooms and thyme.
- Add Scotch, ginger ale, brown sugar, soy sauce, and sage; simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Serve the steaks with the mushroom sauce and enjoy!