Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Steak

Craving a juicy, tender steak with a crispy bacon twist? Look no further! This Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Steak recipe is the perfect solution for a quick, delicious meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want a tasty weeknight dinner, this recipe will impress with its minimal prep time and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Steak

• Unbeatable Flavor: The combination of juicy steak and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion. The bacon adds a smoky, savory element that perfectly complements the tender beef.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal preparation. With the help of an air fryer, you can have a gourmet meal ready in just 14 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Versatile Cooking: Whether you prefer your steak medium, medium-well, or well-done, this recipe allows you to achieve your desired level of doneness with ease. Simply adjust the cooking time to suit your preference.
• Low Carb and Keto-Friendly: This recipe fits perfectly into low carb and keto diets. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a hearty meal without worrying about carb counts.
• Perfect Presentation: Bacon wrapped steak not only tastes amazing but also looks impressive. It’s a great dish to serve when you want to wow your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Steak

• Bacon Wrapped Filets: These can be prepackaged or homemade. If making from scratch, season your steaks and wrap each one with a slice of bacon for a delicious, smoky flavor.
• Optional Seasoning: If you prefer to make your own bacon wrapped filets, make sure to season the steak with your favorite spices before wrapping it in bacon.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Steak

• Air Fryer: Essential for cooking the bacon-wrapped steak to perfection. It ensures even cooking and a crispy bacon exterior.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping the steak halfway through the cooking process to ensure even doneness.
• Instant-Read Thermometer: This helps you check the internal temperature of the steak to achieve your desired level of doneness.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Needed for slicing the steak after it has rested, ensuring clean cuts and a beautiful presentation.

How To Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Steak

• Prepare the Steaks: If using prepackaged bacon-wrapped filets, simply remove them from the packaging. If making from scratch, season the steaks with your favorite spices and wrap each one with a slice of bacon.
• Place in Air Fryer: Arrange the bacon-wrapped steaks in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching for even cooking.
• Set Temperature and Time: Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook the steaks for 14 minutes.
• Flip Halfway: Halfway through the cooking time, use tongs to carefully flip the steaks to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
• Check Doneness: After 14 minutes, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks. Aim for 140°F for medium, 150°F for medium-well, and 165°F for well-done.
• Rest and Slice: Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain their juices and continue cooking to perfection. Then, slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Side Dishes: Pair your bacon-wrapped steak with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. These sides complement the rich flavors of the steak perfectly.
• Sauce Options: Serve with a creamy horseradish sauce, a spicy sauce, or a rich tomato gravy to enhance the flavor of the steak.
• Gourmet Touch: Add a dollop of garlic herb butter on top of the steak right before serving for an extra touch of luxury and flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb meal, serve the steak with a side of cauliflower or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Tips For Success

• Fully Defrost Before Cooking: If you are using frozen bacon-wrapped steaks, make sure to fully defrost them in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and the best texture.
• Season Generously: If making your bacon-wrapped steaks, season the beef generously with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. This will enhance the flavor of the steak.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Although it’s not always necessary, preheating the air fryer can help achieve a more consistent cooking temperature, which is especially useful for thicker cuts of meat.
• Check doneness with a Thermometer: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak to avoid overcooking. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
• Resting Time is Crucial: Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
• Flip Halfway Through: Flipping the steak halfway through the cooking time ensures even browning and cooking on all sides. This step is especially important for achieving that perfect crispy bacon exterior.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Thickness: Depending on the thickness of your steak, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Thicker steaks might require an extra few minutes, while thinner ones might be done a bit sooner.
• Use Quality Bacon: The type of bacon you use can greatly affect the final taste. Opt for a good quality bacon that is not too thin, as it will hold up better during cooking and provide a better flavor.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or marinades for the steak before wrapping it in bacon. This can add a unique twist to the traditional recipe.
• Monitor Cooking Progress: Every air fryer is different, so keep an eye on the steak as it cooks. If it looks like it’s browning too quickly, you can lower the temperature slightly or reduce the cooking time.

Variations And Substitutions

• Different Cuts of Meat: While filet mignon is a popular choice, you can use other cuts of steak such as ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and type of steak to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.
• Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different seasonings and rubs to change the flavor profile. Try using garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or a steak seasoning blend for added depth of flavor.
• Bacon Alternatives: For a different twist, you can use pancetta or prosciutto instead of bacon. These alternatives will provide a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
• Marinated Steaks: Marinate the steaks before wrapping them in bacon to infuse additional flavors. A simple marinade of olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs can elevate the taste.
• Cheese-Stuffed Steaks: For an indulgent variation, stuff the steaks with cheese before wrapping them in bacon. Blue cheese, goat cheese, or even a garlic herb cheese spread can add a rich, creamy element to the dish.
• Vegetarian Option: If you want a vegetarian version, use thick slices of portobello mushrooms wrapped in veggie bacon. Cook them in the air fryer using the same temperature and time adjustments as for the steak.
• Spicy Kick: Add a spicy kick by seasoning the steak with chili powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes before wrapping it in bacon. This will add a delightful heat to each bite.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all seasonings and bacon used are gluten-free. Most fresh meats are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on prepackaged items to be sure.
• Herb-Infused Butter: Serve the steak with a pat of herb-infused butter on top. Mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary, then chill and slice to top the steak.
• Smoked Bacon: Use smoked bacon for an extra layer of smoky flavor. This enhances the overall taste and adds a delicious aroma to the dish.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover bacon-wrapped steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you want to store the steak for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating in the Air Fryer: To reheat the steak, preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place the steak in the air fryer basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps retain the steak’s juiciness and the bacon’s crispiness.
• Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of warmth.
• Microwave Reheating: While not the best method for retaining texture, you can reheat the steak in the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Place the steak on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Avoid Overheating: Be careful not to overheat the steak, as it can become tough and dry. Check the steak periodically while reheating to ensure it’s just warmed through and not overcooked.
• Resting After Reheating: Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after reheating before slicing and serving. This helps the juices redistribute and maintain the steak’s tenderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my steak is done cooking in the air fryer?

Using an instant-read thermometer is the best way to determine when your steak is done. For medium, aim for an internal temperature of 140°F. For medium-well, look for 150°F, and for well-done, the temperature should be 165°F. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly as it rests, so consider taking it out a few degrees before it reaches the desired temperature.

Can I use a different type of steak for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts of steak such as ribeye, sirloin, or tenderloin. Keep in mind that different cuts may require adjustments in cooking time. Thicker steaks may need a few extra minutes, while thinner cuts might cook faster.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

While preheating the air fryer is not always necessary, it can help achieve a more consistent cooking temperature, especially for thicker cuts of meat. Preheating can also help create a better sear on the outside of the steak.

What type of bacon works best for wrapping the steak?

Use good quality bacon that is not too thin. Thicker slices hold up better during cooking and provide a richer flavor. Smoked bacon can also add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

How do I prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking?

To prevent the bacon from unraveling, you can secure it with toothpicks before placing the steak in the air fryer. Just remember to remove the toothpicks before serving.

Can I marinate the steak before wrapping it in bacon?

Yes, marinating the steak before wrapping it in bacon can add extra flavor. A simple marinade of olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs works well. Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, for best results.

Is this recipe suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?

Absolutely! This bacon-wrapped steak recipe is perfect for keto and low-carb diets. It’s high in protein and fat, with minimal carbs, making it a delicious and satisfying meal option.

Can I cook the steak to different levels of doneness for multiple people?

Yes, you can adjust the cooking time to achieve different levels of doneness for multiple people. Cook some steaks for the recommended 14 minutes for medium, then cook additional steaks for a few minutes longer for medium-well or well-done.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or use the microwave in 30-second intervals.

Can I add extra seasoning or toppings to the steak?

Feel free to customize the seasoning to your liking. You can add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or any other spices you prefer. Additionally, topping the steak with a pat of garlic herb butter right before serving can add a delicious touch.

Other Easy Bacon Recipes

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Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Franks: Indulge in a deliciously easy snack with hot dogs wrapped in crispy bacon, cooked quickly in the air fryer.

Oven Baked Turkey Bacon: Achieve perfectly crispy turkey bacon every time with this simple oven-baking method.

Quick Microwave Turkey Bacon: Enjoy quick and convenient turkey bacon that’s ready in minutes with this microwave method.

Air Fryer Egg and Bacon Toast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast of crispy bacon and eggs on perfectly toasted bread, made effortlessly in the air fryer.

Bacon and Eggs in Air Fryer: Whip up a classic breakfast favorite of crispy bacon and perfectly cooked eggs using your air fryer.

Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Bacon: Enjoy healthier, crispy turkey bacon made effortlessly in the air fryer for a delicious, guilt-free treat.

More Air Fryer Steak Recipes

• Air Fryer New York Strip – Achieve a perfectly cooked, juicy New York Strip steak with a deliciously crispy exterior using this easy air fryer recipe.
• Air Fryer Cubed Steak – Discover the simplest way to cook tender and flavorful cubed steak in your air fryer, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Air Fryer Steak Bites – Enjoy bite-sized, succulent steak bites cooked to perfection in the air fryer, ideal for appetizers or a tasty main dish.
• Air Fryer Ribeye – Experience the rich, juicy flavor of a perfectly air-fried ribeye steak with a mouthwatering crust and tender interior.
• Air Fryer T-Bone Steak – Cook a restaurant-quality T-Bone steak in your air fryer, featuring a juicy, tender center and a crispy, flavorful crust.
• Air Fryer Filet Mignon – Indulge in a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon, expertly cooked in the air fryer for a perfect balance of tenderness and flavor.

See also:

• Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Belly

• Air Fryer Thin Sliced Chicken Breast

• Air Fryer Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich