Few dishes capture the essence of elegance and indulgence like Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers. These bite-sized appetizers combine the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of filet mignon with the crispy, smoky goodness of bacon, offering an irresistible blend of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for an impressive dish to serve at a gathering, these skewers are the perfect choice.

In this article, we’ll dive into the delicious details of this recipe, including its ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for achieving perfect results. We’ll also explore why Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers are ideal for entertaining, offer variations on the classic recipe, and suggest ideal drink pairings to complement the flavors. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to create this sophisticated dish at home.

Why Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers Are Perfect for Entertaining

There are several reasons why Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers make an excellent appetizer for any event or gathering:

  1. Elegant Presentation: Filet mignon is one of the most luxurious cuts of beef, and when wrapped in crispy bacon, it creates a visually appealing dish that looks just as amazing as it tastes. The combination of golden-brown bacon, juicy beef, and fresh herbs makes these skewers the star of any appetizer platter.
  2. Balanced Flavor: The tender, juicy filet mignon pairs beautifully with the savory, smoky flavor of bacon. Together, they create a balanced bite that’s both rich and flavorful, with the beef offering a delicate texture and the bacon adding a satisfying crunch.
  3. Easy to Serve: These skewers are perfect for entertaining because they’re easy to eat. Guests can pick up the skewers without the need for utensils, making them a convenient option for cocktail parties, receptions, or casual gatherings.
  4. Quick to Cook: Filet mignon is a naturally tender cut of beef that cooks quickly, making it ideal for bite-sized appetizers like these. With just a few minutes on the grill or in a hot pan, the skewers are ready to serve, allowing you to spend more time with your guests.
  5. Customizable: The recipe can be easily adapted to suit your preferences or the theme of your event. Whether you prefer to grill, pan-sear, or bake the skewers, you can customize the cooking method and seasoning to create the perfect dish for any occasion.

Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers

To make these delicious skewers, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

For the Filet Mignon Skewers:

  • 1 lb filet mignon: Cut into 1-inch cubes. Filet mignon is the most tender cut of beef, making it the ideal choice for these skewers.
  • 8-10 slices of bacon: Cut in half lengthwise. This allows the bacon to wrap around the beef cubes without overwhelming the flavor of the meat.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to marinate the beef and help it sear to perfection.
  • 2 cloves garlic: Minced for flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary: Finely chopped to add a fragrant, herbaceous note.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme: Finely chopped to complement the rosemary and add complexity.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory, umami depth to the beef.
  • Salt and pepper: To season the beef before cooking.
  • Mini skewers or toothpicks: Essential for assembling the skewers.

Why Use Filet Mignon?

Filet mignon is often considered the king of steaks due to its buttery texture and mild flavor. Unlike other cuts of beef, filet mignon is naturally tender because it comes from the least worked part of the cow, the tenderloin. Its delicate flavor pairs perfectly with the salty, savory bacon, creating a harmonious balance that makes these skewers truly indulgent.

The key to achieving the best texture is to avoid overcooking the beef. Filet mignon is best served medium-rare to medium, allowing it to retain its juiciness and tender texture while developing a flavorful crust on the outside.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers

Let’s walk through the process of making these Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers step by step:

Step 1: Marinate the Filet Mignon

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. This simple marinade adds flavor to the filet mignon without overpowering its natural richness.
  2. Marinate the Beef: Add the filet mignon cubes to the bowl and toss them to coat evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the beef marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon

  1. Pre-Cook the Bacon: To ensure the bacon becomes crispy without overcooking the filet mignon, it’s important to partially cook the bacon before wrapping it around the beef. In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, until it begins to render its fat but remains pliable. Remove the bacon from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

  1. Wrap the Filet Mignon: Take each marinated filet mignon cube and wrap it with a half-slice of partially cooked bacon. Secure the bacon with a mini skewer or toothpick, making sure the skewer goes through both the bacon and the beef to hold everything together.
  2. Repeat: Continue wrapping all the filet mignon cubes with bacon and securing them with skewers.

Step 4: Cook the Skewers

  1. Grill or Pan-Sear the Skewers:
    • Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until the bacon is crispy and the filet mignon reaches your desired doneness (about 4-6 minutes total for medium-rare).
    • Pan-Sear Method: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until the bacon is crispy and the beef is cooked to your liking.
  2. Let the Skewers Rest: Once the skewers are cooked to your preferred doneness, remove them from the grill or pan and let them rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, flavorful beef.

Step 5: Serve the Skewers

  1. Garnish and Serve: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color. Serve them warm and enjoy the irresistible combination of tender filet mignon and crispy bacon.

Tips for Perfecting Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers

  1. Use High-Quality Filet Mignon: Since filet mignon is the star of this dish, using high-quality beef ensures the best texture and flavor. Look for a well-marbled filet mignon from a trusted butcher or grocery store.
  2. Don’t Overcook the Beef: Filet mignon is a very lean cut of beef, so it’s best served medium-rare to medium. Overcooking the beef can result in a dry, tough texture. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
  3. Pre-Cook the Bacon: Partially cooking the bacon before wrapping it around the beef ensures that it crisps up without overcooking the filet mignon. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
  4. Let the Beef Rest: After cooking, let the skewers rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This ensures that the beef stays juicy and tender when served.

Variations on Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers

While the classic version of Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to suit your personal preferences or the theme of your event:

  1. Add a Glaze: For a sweet and savory twist, brush the skewers with a balsamic glaze or honey-soy glaze during the last minute of cooking. The glaze caramelizes on the bacon, adding an extra layer of flavor.
  2. Herb-Crusted Beef: For added flavor, roll the filet mignon cubes in a mixture of chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley) before wrapping them in bacon. The herbs add a fresh, fragrant note to each bite.
  3. Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Skewers: Add a touch of heat by sprinkling the filet mignon cubes with cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes before wrapping them in bacon. You can also drizzle the finished skewers with a spicy dipping sauce, such as sriracha mayo or a chipotle aioli.
  4. Cheese-Stuffed Skewers: For a decadent twist, stuff each filet mignon cube with a small piece of blue cheese or Brie before wrapping it in bacon. The cheese melts into the beef as it cooks, creating a rich, creamy center.
  5. Vegetable-Enhanced Skewers: Add a roasted vegetable, such as a cherry tomato or mushroom, to each skewer for extra color and flavor. The vegetable adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the beef and bacon.

Health Benefits of Filet Mignon

Despite its indulgent reputation, filet mignon is a relatively lean cut of beef that offers several nutritional benefits:

  1. High in Protein: Filet mignon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Protein also helps you feel fuller for longer, making these skewers a satisfying appetizer.
  2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Filet mignon contains important nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Iron helps support healthy red blood cells, while zinc is essential for immune function and metabolism. B vitamins, including B12, help maintain healthy nerve function and energy levels.
  3. Low in Fat: Compared to other cuts of beef, filet mignon is relatively low in fat. The lean nature of this cut makes it a healthier option for those looking to reduce their saturated fat intake while still enjoying a flavorful, indulgent dish.

Beverage Pairing Suggestions for Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers

Pairing the right drink with Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers can enhance the flavors and elevate the overall dining experience. Here are a few suggestions:

  1. Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah pairs beautifully with the rich, savory flavors of the bacon and beef. The wine’s tannins complement the fattiness of the bacon, while its bold flavors stand up to the filet mignon.
  2. Whiskey or Bourbon: For a more robust pairing, serve the skewers with a glass of whiskey or bourbon. The caramel and smoky notes of the whiskey complement the flavors of the bacon and beef, creating a harmonious match.
  3. Champagne: For a festive option, pair the skewers with Champagne or sparkling wine. The bubbles cut through the richness of the dish, creating a refreshing contrast.
  4. Craft Beer: If you prefer beer, opt for a dark ale or stout. These beers have roasted malt flavors that pair well with the smokiness of the bacon and the umami-rich beef.
  5. Non-Alcoholic Option: For a non-alcoholic option, serve the skewers with sparkling water infused with lemon or herbs. The effervescence cleanses the palate and complements the savory flavors.

Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers are the ultimate appetizer for any special occasion. With their combination of tender, juicy filet mignon and crispy, savory bacon, these skewers offer a luxurious bite that’s sure to impress your guests. Their elegant presentation, quick cooking time, and customizable nature make them a versatile choice for dinner parties, holiday celebrations, and casual gatherings alike.

Whether you’re serving these skewers as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or elevating a weeknight meal, Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon Skewers are guaranteed to be a hit. Try this recipe at your next event and enjoy the irresistible flavors of this indulgent dish!