Keto Bacon-Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Steaks
Thick beef tenderloin steaks are transformed into an impressive main course with a savory bacon and cornbread stuffing tucked inside pockets cut into each steak. The bacon renders flavorful drippings that baste the steaks while grilling, creating a rich, smoky flavor throughout. Perfect for special occasions or weekend grilling, this recipe combines the luxury of tenderloin with the comfort of cornbread stuffing. The stuffing adds moisture and flavor while the peppered seasoned salt creates a delicious crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Heat grill and cook bacon in large skillet over medium heat until almost crisp
- 2
Reserve 1 tablespoon drippings with bacon in skillet and set aside remaining drippings
- 3
Add onion to skillet and cook and stir 2 to 3 minutes
- 4
Add cornbread stuffing mix crumbs and water and mix well, then remove from heat
- 5
Make pocket in side of each steak with sharp knife for stuffing
- 6
Spoon stuffing into each steak
- 7
Brush both sides of each steak with reserved drippings
- 8
Sprinkle each steak with peppered seasoned salt
- 9
Place steaks on gas grill over medium heat or on charcoal grill 4 to 6 inches from medium coals
- 10
Cook 8 to 12 minutes or until of desired doneness, turning once
Tips
Cut pockets carefully into the steaks to avoid cutting all the way through - you want a deep pocket that can hold stuffing without leaking.
Let steaks rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling for more even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness - 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days. Reheat gently in oven at 300°F to avoid overcooking.
Stuff steaks up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before grilling.
Serve immediately while hot. Let rest 5 minutes after grilling for juices to redistribute.
Common Mistakes
Don't overstuff the pockets or stuffing will fall out during cooking
Avoid cutting pockets too shallow or stuffing won't fit properly
Don't skip resting the steaks before grilling to prevent uneven cooking
Substitutions
Similar flavor profile
FAQ
Can I cook these steaks in a skillet instead of grilling?
Yes, sear in a hot cast iron skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, then finish in a 400°F oven for 5-8 minutes until desired doneness.
What if my steaks are thinner than 1.5 inches?
Reduce cooking time to 6-8 minutes total and use less stuffing. Thinner steaks cook faster and hold less filling.
How long will the stuffed steaks keep in the refrigerator?
Store stuffed raw steaks up to 24 hours before cooking. Cooked leftovers keep 3-4 days refrigerated.