Bacon-Wrapped Albacore Tuna Filet Mignons (Steven Raichlen) | Arteflame

Introduction

Elevate your next cookout with these bacon‑wrapped albacore tuna filet mignons, a dish that blends steakhouse indulgence with fresh, ocean‑driven flavor. The gentle richness of albacore pairs perfectly with smoky bacon, while a bold peppercorn cream sauce adds a luxurious finishing touch. This recipe is ideal for anyone searching for a gourmet yet achievable grilled seafood dinner. Whether you’re cooking on an Arteflame grill, a gas setup, or charcoal, this impressive dish delivers restaurant-level results with minimal fuss. It’s a fantastic choice for special occasions, date nights, or anytime you want to serve something unforgettable.

Ingredients

Bacon‑Wrapped Albacore Tuna

• 4 albacore tuna medallions (about 6 ounces each)
• 8 slices thick‑cut bacon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Kitchen twine or toothpicks

Peppercorn Cream Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 shallot, finely minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons crushed black peppercorns
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the tuna medallions

1. Pat each tuna medallion dry with paper towels.
2. Season the sides lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Wrap each medallion with two slices of bacon, overlapping slightly.
4. Secure bacon with twine or toothpicks.

Step 2: Preheat and oil the grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium‑high heat.
2. Lightly brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the tuna

1. Place the bacon‑wrapped medallions on the grill.
2. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, turning as needed.
3. Cook until the bacon is crisp and the tuna reaches your preferred doneness.

Step 4: Prepare the peppercorn sauce

1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add shallots and sauté until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and crushed peppercorns.
4. Deglaze with white wine and simmer until reduced by half.
5. Pour in heavy cream and Dijon mustard.
6. Simmer until thickened, seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove twine or toothpicks from tuna.
2. Plate each medallion and spoon peppercorn cream sauce over top.

Tips

For the best flavor, choose sushi‑grade albacore tuna with a firm texture and pale pink color. Bacon adds richness, but don’t overcook the tuna—medium‑rare to medium maintains tenderness. Allow the peppercorn sauce to reduce slowly for balanced heat and creaminess. If grilling on cast iron, ensure the surface is fully preheated for the perfect sear. For extra aroma, try adding a small chunk of hardwood to your grill to introduce a subtle smoky note.

Variations

There are countless ways to customize these tuna filet mignons to suit different preferences. Whether you want more heat, a different sauce style, or alternate preparations, small changes can make the recipe feel brand new.

• Swap albacore for ahi tuna.
• Add crushed pink peppercorns for floral heat.
• Use pancetta instead of bacon for lighter smoke.
• Finish with lemon‑herb butter instead of cream sauce.
• Brush tuna with teriyaki glaze before grilling.

Best pairings

These elegant tuna medallions pair wonderfully with bright, refreshing sides that balance the richness of the bacon and cream sauce. Consider pairing with roasted vegetables, crisp salads, or something chilled and citrus‑forward. Drinks also play a big role in enhancing the experience.

• Grilled asparagus or broccolini
• Citrus and fennel salad
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Chilled sauvignon blanc or dry rosé
• Light pilsner or wheat beer

Conclusion

This bacon‑wrapped albacore tuna filet mignon recipe delivers an unforgettable combination of smoky, creamy, and peppery flavors—all with simple ingredients and a straightforward grilling process. Whether you're preparing a special dinner or exploring new seafood dishes, this recipe offers a refined yet approachable option.

Serve it with fresh sides and your favorite drink pairing, and you’ll have a meal that rivals a fine‑dining experience right at home.