Filet mignon is considered one of the most tender and delicious cuts of beef. Wrapping it in bacon adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps the filet extra juicy. While grilling or pan searing are traditional cooking methods, using an air fryer is a quick, easy and mess-free way to achieve a restaurant-quality filet at home.
In this detailed guide I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make succulent bacon wrapped filet mignon in an air fryer including tips for choosing cuts of meat, prep, cook times, doneness levels, and serving suggestions. Let’s get cooking!
Benefits of Cooking Filet Mignon in an Air Fryer
Air fryers have become increasingly popular for cooking meats, and for good reason. Here are some of the benefits of using an air fryer for filet mignon:
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Quick cooking times – The circulating hot air cooks food much faster than an oven, Filets can be cooked to medium rare in just 10-15 minutes,
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Gets a nice sear – The hot air circulates around the food, browning and crisping the outside while keeping the inside tender.
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More even cooking – No need to flip back and forth like grilling or pan searing. The hot air surrounds the meat evenly.
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Simple clean up – Unlike dealing with grill or pan drippings, air fryer cleanup is a breeze.
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Retains juiciness – The rapid cooking method helps lock in moisture.
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Adds smoky flavor – The air fryer imparts a light smoky taste without needing a grill.
Ingredients
- 2 filet mignon steaks, about 6-8 oz each
- 2 slices bacon
- Olive oil or avocado oil spray
- Salt and pepper or steak seasoning
- 2 wooden toothpicks
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for perfect bacon wrapped filet mignon every time.
1. Prep the Filets
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Take the filet mignon steaks out of the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly.
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Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Make sure the surface is dried so seasoning adheres properly.
2. Wrap with Bacon
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Cut each slice of bacon in half lengthwise so you have 4 thinner pieces.
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Wrap a bacon slice around the side of the filet, overlapping the ends.
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Secure the bacon in place by threading a wooden toothpick through the bacon and into the meat. Stick it in diagonally, entering about 1⁄2 inch from the bottom edge of the steak, and exiting 1⁄2 inch from the top edge.
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Repeat with the remaining filet.
3. Season the Meat
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Brush or spray both sides of the filets lightly with olive oil or avocado oil. This helps the seasoning stick.
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Season the filets generously with salt and pepper or a steak seasoning blend. Pat the seasoning in so it adheres.
4. Air Fry
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Pre-heat air fryer to 390°F.
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Place the bacon wrapped filets in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd. Leave a little space between them.
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Air fry for 4 1⁄2 minutes at 390°F.
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Flip the filets using tongs. Air fry 4 1⁄2 more minutes.
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Check temperature using a meat thermometer. Filets should read 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium rare, and 145°F for medium.
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Remove filets from air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
5. Finish and Serve
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Remove toothpicks before serving.
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Top with a pat of garlic-herb butter.
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Pair with roasted asparagus, baked potato, or creamed spinach.
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Enjoy your restaurant-quality bacon wrapped filet mignon!
Tips for Perfect Results
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Use high quality beef – Splurge on Choice or Prime grade filet mignon for the most flavor and tenderness.
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Go thick – 1 1⁄2 inches is ideal. Thinner cuts will overcook.
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Dry the surface well so the meat browns properly and seasoning adheres.
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Preheat the air fryer so it’s nice and hot when you add the meat.
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Don’t overcrowd – Leave space between filets for air circulation.
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Flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
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Let meat rest before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
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Use a meat thermometer to check desired doneness, especially if you like it on the rare side.
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Add herbs and garlic – A pat of herb-garlic butter on top really makes it.
Filet Mignon Doneness Guide
Here are the target internal temperatures for various doneness levels:
- Rare – 125°F (52°C)
- Medium rare – 135°F (57°C)
- Medium – 145°F (63°C)
- Medium well – 150°F (66°C)
- Well done – 160°F (71°C)
Rare filet mignon will be cool and bright red in the center. For food safety, it’s not recommended to eat beef below 145°F. Medium rare offers the best balance of juicy and tender.
FAQs
Got questions? Here are some common air fryer filet queries answered:
What cut of steak works best?
- Filet mignon is the most tender cut and recommended for air frying. Other good options include NY strip, ribeye, or tenderloin.
Does it need to be thick?
- Yes, 1 1⁄2 inches is ideal. Thinner cuts will overcook.
How long does it take?
- 4 1⁄2 minutes per side is usually perfect for medium rare doneness. Check internal temp with a meat thermometer.
Can I put seasoning on before air frying?
- Yes, seasoning the meat before air frying adds great flavor. Just dry the surface well so seasoning sticks.
Should it be flipped during cooking?
- Flipping halfway through ensures even cooking on both sides.
Is bacon necessary?
- No, but the bacon adds nice flavor, moisture and presentation.
What sides go well with it?
- Consider roasted asparagus, baked potato, or spinach. A red wine reduction sauce is also excellent.
Enjoy Restaurant-Worthy Filet at Home
With this complete guide, you can confidently make tender, juicy bacon wrapped filet mignon easily at home with your air fryer. No grilling or pan searing required!
The circulating hot air locks in moisture while imparting a nice sear to the outside. Use high quality thick cut steaks, prep and season properly, set the right cook times, and check temperature.
In just 10-15 minutes, you can treat yourself to the perfect filet – crispy bacon, savory crust, and melt-in-your-mouth tender beef. Pair it with a loaded baked potato or some garlic sautéed spinach for a complete five-star meal. Enjoy!