how to cook a beef tenderloin filet wrapped in bacon

3 min read 17-01-2025

how to cook a beef tenderloin filet wrapped in bacon

Meta Description: Learn how to cook a juicy, flavorful bacon-wrapped beef tenderloin filet! This comprehensive guide covers everything from selecting the perfect cut to achieving that perfect sear and ensuring a tender, delicious result. Get ready to impress your guests with this restaurant-quality dish!

Selecting and Preparing Your Ingredients

Choosing the right beef tenderloin is crucial for a successful dish. Look for a filet that's evenly marbled with a deep red color. Avoid any with excessive discoloration or unpleasant odors. Aim for a tenderloin that's about 2-2.5 pounds for optimal cooking.

What you'll need:

2-2.5 lb beef tenderloin filet
1 lb thick-cut bacon
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Optional: Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)

Before you begin, pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels. This is essential for a good sear. Then, generously season the filet all over with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. If using fresh herbs, gently rub them into the meat.

Wrapping Your Filet in Bacon

Lay out your bacon slices slightly overlapping each other on a large piece of plastic wrap. This will create a continuous bacon "blanket." Place the seasoned beef tenderloin in the center of the bacon.

Carefully lift the edges of the plastic wrap, using it to help you tightly wrap the bacon around the tenderloin. Twist the ends of the bacon to secure it. Refrigerate the wrapped tenderloin for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This also helps the bacon adhere better during cooking.

Cooking Your Bacon-Wrapped Beef Tenderloin

How to Cook it Perfectly:

There are several methods you can use to cook your bacon-wrapped beef tenderloin, each producing slightly different results.

Method 1: Searing and Roasting

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the bacon-wrapped tenderloin on all sides until the bacon is lightly browned and the meat is nicely seared. This step takes roughly 2-3 minutes per side.

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare, 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium, or 150-155°F (66-68°C) for medium-well.

Remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful filet.

Method 2: Reverse Searing

For a more even cook, try reverse searing. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the bacon-wrapped tenderloin on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Roast for 1-1.5 hours, or until a meat thermometer registers 120-125°F (49-52°C) for medium-rare, 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium.

Remove from the oven and increase oven temperature to 500°F (260°C). Sear the bacon-wrapped tenderloin in the hot oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the outside is well-browned. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Method 3: Grilling

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the bacon-wrapped tenderloin, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Serving Your Masterpiece

Once rested, carefully slice the beef tenderloin against the grain. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. The rich, savory flavor of the bacon perfectly complements the tender beef.

Enjoy your delicious bacon-wrapped beef tenderloin! Remember to adjust cooking times based on the size of your filet and your preferred level of doneness. Using a meat thermometer is highly recommended for accurate results.