Mastering the Art of Grilling: How to Cook Bacon-Wrapped Filet

Mastering the Art of Grilling

Grilling is one of the most enjoyable ways to prepare food, bringing out unique flavors and textures that can elevate any dish. One of the ultimate grilling delights is the bacon-wrapped filet. This dish not only combines the richness of filet mignon with the crispy goodness of bacon but also creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of grilling the perfect bacon-wrapped filet, ensuring that you master this delicious art.

Ingredients You Will Need

Before you start grilling, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 filet mignon steaks (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 8 strips of bacon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil (optional)
• Your favorite steak seasoning (optional)

Equipment Needed

To successfully grill your bacon-wrapped filets, you will need the following equipment:

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Grill thermometer
• Grilling tongs
• Meat thermometer
• Aluminum foil (optional)

Preparing Your Bacon-Wrapped Filet for Grilling

The first step in mastering the art of grilling bacon-wrapped filets is preparation. Follow these steps to ensure your filets are ready for the grill:

Step 1: Season the Filets

Start by seasoning your filets with salt and pepper. If you prefer, you can also apply your favorite steak seasoning. Here’s how to do it:

• Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the filets.
• Let the seasoned filets sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This will help them cook evenly.

Step 2: Wrap the Filets in Bacon

Now comes the fun part! Wrapping your filets in bacon will add flavor and moisture. Follow these steps:

• Take one strip of bacon and wrap it around the edge of the filet, overlapping slightly as you go.
• Secure the bacon in place with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
• Repeat this process for each filet.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Before placing your filets on the grill, it’s essential to preheat it. Here’s how:

• For a gas grill, turn it on to medium-high heat and close the lid for about 10-15 minutes.
• For a charcoal grill, light the charcoal and let it burn until it’s covered with white ash, then spread it out evenly.

Using a grill thermometer can help you monitor the temperature effectively. The ideal grilling temperature for steaks is around 450°F to 500°F.

Grilling the Bacon-Wrapped Filets

Once your grill is preheated, it’s time to start grilling. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect bacon-wrapped filet:

Step 4: Place the Filets on the Grill

Carefully place the bacon-wrapped filets on the grill grates. Here’s how:

• Use grilling tongs to place the filets on the hot grill.
• Make sure to leave some space between each filet to allow for even cooking.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of your filets and your preferred level of doneness. Here are general guidelines:

• For rare: Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side.
• For medium-rare: Grill for about 5-6 minutes per side.
• For medium: Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side.
• For well done: Grill for about 8-9 minutes per side.

To ensure accuracy, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature for:

• Rare: 120°F – 125°F
• Medium-rare: 130°F – 135°F
• Medium: 140°F – 145°F
• Well done: 160°F and above

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

For an added layer of flavor, brush the filets with olive oil or a mixture of melted butter and garlic during the last couple of minutes of grilling. This step is optional but can enhance the overall taste.

Troubleshooting Common Grilling Issues

Even experienced grillers sometimes encounter problems. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:

Issue 1: Bacon Not Crispy

If your bacon isn’t getting crispy, it may be due to low grill temperature. Ensure your grill is adequately preheated and consider moving the filets to a hotter part of the grill for a few minutes towards the end of cooking.

Issue 2: Filets Cooked Unevenly

To avoid uneven cooking, ensure you’re using even-sized filets and that they are at room temperature before grilling. Additionally, avoid moving them around too much while they cook.

Issue 3: Filets Sticking to the Grill

To minimize sticking, make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the filets on them. You can use a paper towel dipped in oil to wipe down the grates.

Serving Your Bacon-Wrapped Filet

Once your bacon-wrapped filets are grilled to perfection, it’s time to serve them. Here are some ideas:

• Allow the filets to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices.
• Serve with sides like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
• Consider pairing with a red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, to enhance the meal.

For additional grilling tips and techniques, check out this grilling resource.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of grilling, especially when it comes to cooking bacon-wrapped filets, is a rewarding endeavor. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to impressing friends and family with a delicious, mouth-watering dish. Remember to keep practicing, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings and side dishes. Happy grilling!

This article is in the category Recipes and created by Cookingtipsblog Team