Air-Fried Filet Mignon: Quick, Crispy, And Tender Perfection

Filet mignon is an expensive, tender cut of beef from the cow's spine or the smaller end of the tenderloin. It is usually cooked in a cast-iron skillet, but an air fryer can also be used to achieve a perfectly cooked, juicy, and tender steak. The air fryer method is easy, quick, and requires minimal cleanup. The steak is cooked to the desired doneness, ranging from rare to well-done, and is often served with garlic herb butter and sides such as baked potatoes, asparagus, or mashed potatoes.

How to choose the best cut of filet mignon

Filet mignon is widely considered one of the best cuts of steak, especially due to its tenderness. It is cut from the smaller end of the tenderloin, which is the narrow tip of the tenderloin in the short loin region of the cow. This part of the animal doesn't work very hard, making the filet mignon an incredibly tender steak.

When choosing the best cut of filet mignon, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, look for a deep red colour, which indicates freshness. Secondly, choose a cut that is even in thickness, as this will ensure that the steak cooks evenly. If you are cooking for a crowd, consider purchasing a larger cut of tenderloin, which can be roasted or cut into individual filet mignon steaks. This will give you more flexibility in serving sizes.

Another factor to consider is the marbling of the meat, which refers to the amount of fat distributed throughout the muscle. While filet mignon is known for being a lean cut, some people prefer steaks with more fat, as it can add flavour and juiciness. If this is important to you, consider choosing a cut with a bit more marbling.

Finally, don't forget to consider the size of the cut. Filet mignon steaks typically range from 5 to 8 ounces, but you may need to adjust the size depending on the number of people you are serving and their appetites.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best cut of filet mignon for your needs and ensure a delicious dining experience.

Preparing the filet mignon for the air fryer

Preparing filet mignon for the air fryer is simple and only requires a few ingredients. First, bring your steaks to room temperature. This will ensure that they cook evenly and produce juicier meat. While you wait, you can make your compound butter. For this, you will need butter, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, and salt. Combine these ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Transfer the butter to a piece of parchment paper and form it into a log shape, folding the paper to cover it. Place the butter in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it.

Next, pat your steaks dry with paper towels. This will help to remove any extra moisture and encourage a nice crust to develop. Season both sides of your steaks with salt and pepper, or a seasoning blend of your choice. You can also add olive oil to help the seasoning stick and create a sizzle when the steaks hit the air fryer. Place the steaks in a shallow dish and allow them to marinate while they come to room temperature.

If you are using an oven model air fryer, transfer the seasoned filets to the racks, leaving about 1 inch of space between each steak to allow for proper air circulation. For basket-style air fryers, place the steaks directly into the preheated basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Now your filet mignon is ready for the air fryer!

Cooking the filet mignon in the air fryer

Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a gourmet meal for two. It's a foolproof method that guarantees a perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy steak every time. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you cook filet mignon in your air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients and Season the Steak

Start by gathering your ingredients. For the steak, choose high-quality filet mignon steaks, preferably USDA Prime or Choice cuts that are deep red and even in thickness. You'll also need olive oil, salt, pepper, and butter. If you want to add extra flavour, you can use fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage.

Let the steaks come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure more even cooking and juicier meat. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels, then coat them lightly with olive oil. Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper. If you're using herbs, mix them with the salt and pepper before coating the steaks.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter (Optional)

While the steaks are coming to room temperature, you can prepare the garlic herb butter. This step is optional but highly recommended as it adds a rich flavour to the dish. Combine softened butter with your choice of herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, or parsley), and salt. Use a fork to mix everything together. Transfer the butter to a piece of parchment paper and shape it into a log, then place it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.

Step 3: Air Fry the Steaks

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave enough space between them for proper air circulation. Set the timer according to your desired doneness:

• Rare: 9-10 minutes
• Medium-Rare: 10-11 minutes
• Medium: 11-12 minutes
• Medium-Well: 11.5-13 minutes
• Well-Done: 14 minutes

For the most accurate results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks:

• Rare: 120°F
• Medium-Rare: 130°F
• Medium: 140°F
• Medium-Well: 145-150°F
• Well-Done: 155-160°F

Flip the steaks halfway through the cooking time to ensure a crispy exterior on both sides.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting the meat is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more tender steak. Finally, serve the steaks with a spoonful of garlic herb butter on top, and enjoy!

How to achieve the perfect doneness

The key to achieving the perfect doneness when cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is controlling the internal temperature of the steak. Using an instant-read meat thermometer is the best way to do this.

First, it is important to let the steaks come to room temperature. This will ensure that they cook more quickly and evenly. While waiting, you can season the steaks with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also season with fresh or dried rosemary, thyme, or sage.

Next, preheat the air fryer to 400°F and place the steaks in the basket, ensuring there is enough space for air to circulate. The cooking time will depend on the desired doneness, but a good rule of thumb is to cook the steaks for 9 minutes for rare, 10 minutes for medium-rare, 11 minutes for medium, 12 minutes for medium-well, and 14 minutes for well-done. It is important to note that these times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the steaks and the model of the air fryer.

For a rare steak, remove the steak from the air fryer when the internal temperature reaches 120°F. For medium-rare, cook to 130°F, for medium, cook to 140°F, for medium-well, cook to 150°F, and for a well-done steak, cook to an internal temperature of 160°F. It is important to remove the steak from the air fryer when it is 5°F below your desired final temperature, as the steak will continue to cook as it rests.

Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and tender steak.

What to serve with the filet mignon

Filet mignon is a tender, juicy, and delicious cut of beef that is perfect for a date night or a special dinner. When cooking filet mignon in an air fryer, you can guarantee a perfectly cooked, tender, and savory steak that melts in your mouth.

Now, let's talk about what to serve with this mouthwatering dish to make it even more spectacular. Here are some ideas for side dishes that will complement your filet mignon:

Potato Sides

Potatoes are a classic pairing with steak, and there are several ways to prepare them. Here are some options:

• Mashed potatoes: Spice up traditional mashed potatoes with oven-roasted garlic and fresh chopped herbs like rosemary, tarragon, sage, marjoram, or dill.
• Baked potato: A simple baked potato is always a great choice and can be loaded with your favorite toppings.
• Sweet potato fries: If you're looking for a healthier option, baked sweet potato fries are a delicious alternative to regular fried potatoes.
• Dauphinoise potatoes: Try this classic French dish, where thin slices of potatoes are baked in a creamy, cheesy gratin.
• Crispy smashed potatoes: Toss them with arugula, crispy bacon, red onions, and a whole-grain mustard vinaigrette for a flavorful side dish.

Vegetable Sides

Adding some vegetables to your plate will provide a nice contrast to the richness of the filet mignon:

• Asparagus: Try wrapping your asparagus in prosciutto and roasting it with lemon for a flavorful side dish.
• Glazed carrots: Combine orange juice, maple syrup, and browned butter for a delicious glaze, then cook the carrots on the stovetop or roast them in the oven.
• Brussel sprouts: Coat them with oil and spices, then air fry until crisp and well-browned.
• Broccoli: Blanch and fry French-style skinny green beans in butter, then top them with sliced almonds for a tasty and healthy side.
• Roasted cauliflower: Cauliflower is a great option to pair with filet mignon, especially when roasted.

Salads

A refreshing salad can balance out the richness of the filet mignon:

• Chickpea salad: Mix chickpeas with heirloom cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions. Dress it with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and rice wine vinegar.
• Caesar salad: This classic steakhouse salad features crispy croutons, a creamy dressing, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
• Walnut and pear salad: The almost fatty flavor of walnuts and the sweetness of pears contrast well with the richness of the beef.

Breads

Some crusty bread or rolls are perfect for soaking up all the delicious juices from the steak:

• Garlic bread: This classic side dish goes well with steak and can be made even better with the addition of fresh herbs.
• Bread and rolls: Serve a variety of breads and rolls, such as sourdough, baguette, or brioche, to soak up the juices from the filet mignon.

Other Sides

• Lobster Mac and cheese: Indulge in this luxurious side dish, which is the perfect comfort food to pair with your filet mignon.
• Truffle fries: For an indulgent and flavorful side, truffle fries are a delicious option.
• Burnt broccolini: Try broccolini with garlic and lemon, and don't forget a pat of truffle butter!

Frequently asked questions