There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the rich aroma of bacon greets you, and there’s no better way to embrace it than with a bacon-wrapped filet mignon. Imagine hosting a special gathering and surprising your friends or family with this delightful dish—minimal fuss and maximum flavor. When I first tried making this air-fryer version, I was astonished by how quickly I could create restaurant-quality steak right at home. Each tender bite of filet mignon is perfectly complemented by the savory crunch of bacon, and the Scotch mushroom sauce? It’s the cherry on top that brings this meal to life.
With the air fryer handling all the hard work, you can focus on enjoying the company of your guests. No more slaving over the stove or worrying about burnt edges! This easy recipe is here to transform your next celebration into a culinary delight. If you’re ready to elevate traditional steak night, let’s dive into the steps that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Why Choose Bacon-Wrapped Steak for Dinner?
Indulgent Flavor: The bacon-wrapped steak delivers a symphony of rich, meaty flavors combined with the irresistible crunch of perfectly cooked bacon, making each bite a savory delight.
Quick Cooking: Thanks to the air fryer, this dish comes together in a flash, freeing you up to savor every moment with family and friends.
Elegant Presentation: Serve this gourmet dish at your next gathering to impress guests with a sophisticated meal that looks as good as it tastes.
Versatile Options: Easily switch up your ingredients with different types of mushrooms or use other herbs to customize the flavor profile.
Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for any occasion, the welcoming aroma and inviting presentation make it a sure-hit that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Bacon-Wrapped Steak Ingredients
For the Steak
• Bacon strips – Adds richness and flavor; substituting with turkey bacon offers a lighter option.
• Beef tenderloin steaks (5 ounces each) – Main protein that provides tenderness; choose high-quality cuts for best results.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; use kosher salt for a coarser texture.
• Coarsely ground pepper – Adds spice and depth; freshly ground is recommended for the best flavor.
For the Sauce
• Sliced baby portobello mushrooms – Provides umami and texture; can be substituted with cremini or button mushrooms.
• Dried thyme – Adds an earthy flavor; fresh thyme works well as an alternative.
• Butter – Adds richness; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
• Olive oil – Used for sautéing mushrooms; consider avocado oil as a neutral alternative.
• Scotch – Provides flavor depth in the sauce; any good quality whisky can be substituted.
• Diet ginger ale – Adds sweetness and carbonation; can replace with club soda mixed with a little sugar.
• Brown sugar – Balances the sauce’s flavors; use maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Reduced-sodium soy sauce – Adds savory depth; tamari can be used for gluten-free.
• Rubbed sage – Adds aromatic flavor; thyme can be substituted if unavailable.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Steak
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Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Begin by cooking the bacon strips in a single layer for about 3-4 minutes until they are partially cooked but not crisp. Drain on paper towels to remove excess fat.
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Season the beef tenderloin steaks generously with salt and coarsely ground pepper. Then, wrap each steak tightly with a strip of bacon and secure it with toothpicks for stability.
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Increase the air fryer temperature to 375°F. Place the prepared bacon-wrapped steaks in the air fryer basket and cook for 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Aim for 135°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium doneness.
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Sauté the sliced baby portobello mushrooms with dried thyme in a skillet over medium heat with olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter until they are tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat once done.
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Combine the cooked mushrooms with Scotch, diet ginger ale, brown sugar, soy sauce, and rubbed sage in the skillet. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until reduced by half. Stir in the remaining butter before serving for a glossy finish.
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Serve the steaks hot, generously topped with mushroom sauce, inviting everyone to enjoy the culinary masterpiece you’ve created.
Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon?
When planning the perfect meal, consider how delightful accompaniments can elevate each bite!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness balances the meaty steak while providing a comforting, smooth texture. It’s a classic match made in heaven.
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in fragrant garlic butter add freshness and brighten up your plate, contrasting the richness of the bacon-wrapped filet.
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Roasted Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus with a sprinkle of lemon complements the savory notes of the steak, creating a vibrant pop of color and flavor on your table.
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Caesar Salad: This fresh, crunchy salad introduces a delightful tang from the dressing while the crisp romaine lettuce and croutons add texture that pairs beautifully with the steak.
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Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, brings out the steak’s flavors and adds a festive touch to your dinner gathering.
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Bourbon Pecan Pie: Finish your meal on a sweet note! The nutty flavors of the pie echo the richness of the steak and provide a warm, comforting conclusion to your culinary experience.
Expert Tips for Bacon-Wrapped Steak
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Bacon Precook: Pre-cooking bacon ensures it becomes crispy while preventing the steak from overcooking. This helps maintain the tender texture of the bacon-wrapped steak.
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Thermometer Use: Avoid the guessing game! Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Aim for 135°F for medium-rare beef, ensuring juicy and flavorful results.
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Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water) and add it to the mushroom mixture while simmering.
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Rest Time: Always allow leftover bacon-wrapped steak to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before reheating; this helps retain moisture and flavor.
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Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, keeping the delicious flavors intact for another meal.
How to Store and Freeze Bacon-Wrapped Steak
Fridge: Store leftover bacon-wrapped steak in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure that it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Bacon-wrapped steak can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then heat in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warm. This helps preserve the delightful crispiness of the bacon.
Bacon-Wrapped Steak Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own by exploring these enticing variations that will elevate your bacon-wrapped steak experience.
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Turkey Bacon: Swap traditional bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter yet still delicious version that offers a guilt-free twist on the classic.
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Ribeye: Choose ribeye steak instead of filet mignon for a more robust flavor and marbling, resulting in an even juicier bite.
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Caramelized Onions: Replace mushrooms with sweet caramelized onions to add a hint of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory bacon and steak.
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Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs such as rosemary or oregano for a fragrant and aromatic touch, enhancing the flavor profile of the entire dish.
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Spicy Maple Glaze: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup mixed with hot sauce over the finished steak for a sweet and spicy kick that will excite your taste buds.
For an extra layer of flavor, Add Cheese: Top the finished steaks with a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese or feta just before serving to introduce a creamy, tangy element.
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Grilled Peppers: Incorporate grilled bell peppers as a side or topping, adding a colorful and flavorful crunch that pairs beautifully with the steak.
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Smoky Paprika: Season the steak with smoked paprika before wrapping it with bacon to infuse a deeper smoky flavor throughout the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignons are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can wrap the tenderloin steaks in bacon and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking, ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful. To maintain quality, store the wrapped steaks in an airtight container to prevent any drying out. The Scotch mushroom sauce can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the steaks in the air fryer and reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, gourmet dinner with minimal effort!
Air-Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon should I use for bacon-wrapped steak?
I recommend using regular bacon strips for their rich flavor and texture. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey bacon works well, although it won’t be as crispy or flavorful. Make sure to partially cook your bacon first for the best results!
How should I store leftover bacon-wrapped steak?
Store your leftover bacon-wrapped steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the steak cool completely before sealing it to maximize freshness. This way, your delicious dish can be enjoyed a second time!
Can you freeze bacon-wrapped steak?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then cover them again with aluminum foil for an airtight seal. Bacon-wrapped steak can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. This ensures you have a gourmet meal ready to go at any time!
What should I do if my bacon isn’t crispy?
If your bacon isn’t crispy after cooking, it may be because it wasn’t pre-cooked enough before wrapping your steak. For the next attempt, cook the bacon for about 3-4 minutes in the air fryer or stovetop until it’s firm to the touch but not fully crispy. This way, it will crisp up perfectly while cooking with the steak!
Is this recipe safe for pets?
While bacon-wrapped steak is a delicious treat for humans, it’s best to keep it away from pets. The high-fat content and seasoning can be harmful to animals. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure about sharing human food with your furry friends.
What do I do if I want a thicker sauce for my bacon-wrapped steak?
For a thicker sauce, you can create a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Stir this slurry into your mushroom sauce while simmering and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened. This method will give you a luscious, velvety sauce that coats your steak beautifully!
Savor the Secret to Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Steak Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Cook the bacon strips in a single layer for about 3-4 minutes until partially cooked. Drain on paper towels.
- Season the beef tenderloin steaks with salt and coarsely ground pepper. Wrap each steak tightly with a strip of bacon and secure with toothpicks.
- Increase the air fryer temperature to 375°F. Cook the bacon-wrapped steaks in the air fryer for 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, aiming for 135°F for medium-rare.
- Sauté the sliced baby portobello mushrooms with dried thyme in a skillet over medium heat with olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter for about 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooked mushrooms with Scotch, diet ginger ale, brown sugar, soy sauce, and rubbed sage. Bring to a boil, then let simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Serve the steaks hot, topped with mushroom sauce, and optionally garnish with fresh thyme.