How to Cook Kroger Bacon-Wrapped Filet in Oven Easily

Cooking a Kroger bacon-wrapped filet in the oven is a simple way to elevate your dinner with rich flavors and juicy tenderness. Whether you’re preparing a special meal or just want to treat yourself, this method guarantees a deliciously crispy bacon exterior and a perfectly cooked steak inside.

You don’t need to be a professional chef to impress your guests or family. With a few easy steps and the right oven settings, you can achieve restaurant-quality results right at home. Get ready to learn how to make this savory dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Choosing the Right Kroger Bacon and Filet

Selecting quality ingredients ensures your Kroger bacon-wrapped filet turns out flavorful and tender. Focus on bacon and filet mignon options that balance taste, texture, and cooking compatibility.

Selecting the Best Bacon

Choose thick-cut Kroger bacon for optimal texture and flavor. Thick slices hold their shape better when wrapped around the filet, preventing shrinkage during cooking. Look for bacon with a consistent fat-to-meat ratio—ideally 50/50—to maintain juiciness without excessive grease. Avoid reduced-sodium or turkey bacon varieties, as they don’t provide the same rich taste or crispiness. If available, select uncured or natural bacon for a purer flavor that complements filet mignon.

Picking the Perfect Filet Mignon

Opt for fresh, center-cut Kroger filet mignon steaks, roughly 1.5 to 2 inches thick. These thicknesses ensure even cooking and maintain tenderness. Check for bright red color and fine marbling—small white streaks of fat distributed evenly—which enhances juiciness and flavor. Choose USDA Choice grade or higher for premium tenderness. Avoid overly lean or thin cuts to prevent dryness during oven cooking. If possible, buy certified Angus or prime cuts from Kroger’s meat department for consistent quality.

Preparing the Bacon-Wrapped Filet

Preparing the bacon-wrapped filet sets the foundation for a perfectly cooked, flavorful steak. Follow these steps to ensure your Kroger bacon and filet combine seamlessly before oven cooking.

Wrapping the Filet with Bacon

Wrap each 1.5 to 2-inch thick filet with one slice of thick-cut Kroger bacon. Start by placing the bacon strip at one end of the steak, then coil it snugly around without stretching. Ensure the bacon covers most of the filet’s surface, maximizing flavor infusion and crispiness during cooking. If your bacon slices are narrow, use two thinner strips per filet for full coverage.

Securing the Bacon for Cooking

Secure the bacon using food-safe toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent unraveling when cooking. Insert toothpicks perpendicular to the bacon’s wrap in two or three spots around the filet. If you use kitchen twine, tie it tightly but without cutting into the meat. Removing the securing materials after cooking preserves the presentation and prevents any unwanted textures in your meal.

Cooking the Bacon-Wrapped Filet in the Oven

Cooking the Kroger bacon-wrapped filet in the oven requires precise temperature and timing to ensure juicy meat and crispy bacon. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.

Preheating the Oven and Setting the Temperature

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). This temperature creates an ideal balance for cooking the steak evenly while crisping the bacon. Use a conventional oven setting—avoid convection unless you adjust the temperature downward by 25°F to prevent overcooking. Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the middle to promote uniform heat distribution around the filet.

Cooking Times for Desired Doneness

Cook times vary depending on the thickness of the filet and your preferred doneness level. For a 1.5 to 2-inch thick Kroger filet wrapped with thick-cut bacon, refer to the following guide:

Doneness Internal Temperature Oven Time (minutes)
Rare 120°F (49°C) 12-14
Medium-Rare 130°F (54°C) 15-17
Medium 140°F (60°C) 18-20
Medium-Well 150°F (66°C) 21-23
Well Done 160°F (71°C) 24-26

Check the internal temperature with a digital meat thermometer inserted into the center of the filet after removing toothpicks or twine. Rest the steak for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Tips for Even Cooking and Crisp Bacon

Use these techniques to ensure even cooking and crispy bacon texture:

  • Place the filet on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow heat circulation under the steak.
  • Brush the bacon with a thin layer of maple syrup or olive oil before baking to enhance browning.
  • Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking to prevent hot spots from uneven browning.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook one or two filets at a time for consistent results.
  • Let the filet rest uncovered on a plate for 5 minutes after baking to maintain the bacon’s crispiness.

Following this method guarantees tender meat with bacon cooked to a golden, crisp finish.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Presenting your Kroger bacon-wrapped filet with care highlights its rich flavors and tender texture. Use thoughtful plating and complementary sides to elevate the meal visually and gastronomically.

Resting the Meat Before Serving

Rest the bacon-wrapped filet for at least 5 minutes on a warm plate after removing it from the oven. This step lets juices redistribute evenly, preserving moisture and bite. Avoid cutting immediately to prevent dry, uneven slices.

Suggested Side Dishes and Sauces

Pair the filet with roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a savory balance. Creamy mashed potatoes or a truffle-infused risotto add luxurious texture contrasts. Drizzle with a red wine reduction or a creamy peppercorn sauce to enhance the filet’s robust bacon flavor. Consider fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary as garnish for added aroma and color.

Conclusion

Mastering the Kroger bacon-wrapped filet in your oven is a surefire way to impress at any meal. With the right ingredients and techniques, you’ll enjoy a juicy, flavorful steak wrapped in perfectly crisp bacon every time.

Take your time to rest the meat and choose sides that complement the rich flavors. This simple yet elegant dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.

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