Perfectly Cooked Filet Mignon: Air Fryer Times Revealed

Filet mignon is a premium cut of beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor, making it a favorite for special occasions. When cooking filet mignon in an air fryer, achieving the perfect doneness requires precision. The cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. This guide will provide a detailed breakdown of how long to cook filet mignon in an air fryer, ensuring you end up with a juicy, perfectly cooked steak every time.

Preparation: Season filet mignon with salt and pepper, then brush with oil

To prepare the filet mignon for cooking in an air fryer, start by seasoning the meat generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor and adds a delightful savory taste to the steak. Use a high-quality sea salt and a freshly ground pepper to ensure a rich, aromatic flavor. Season both sides of the filet mignon, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly.

Once seasoned, it's time to add a touch of moisture to the steak. Brush a light coating of high-quality olive oil or any neutral-flavored oil over the seasoned filet mignon. This step is crucial as it helps to seal in the juices and adds a beautiful, golden-brown crust when cooked. Ensure that the oil is evenly distributed, allowing it to penetrate the meat slightly.

The key to a perfectly cooked filet mignon in an air fryer is precision and timing. Preheat your air fryer to a temperature of 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned and oiled filet mignon in the air fryer basket, ensuring it fits snugly. Cook the steak for approximately 8-10 minutes, flipping it halfway through the cooking time. This duration will result in a medium-rare filet mignon, but you can adjust the time based on your desired doneness. For a more well-done steak, extend the cooking time by a few minutes.

Remember, the air fryer's cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the filet mignon and your specific air fryer model. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for accuracy. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, ensuring it doesn't touch any bone. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F to 140°F (57°C to 60°C).

After removing the filet mignon from the air fryer, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender steak. Enjoy your perfectly cooked filet mignon, ready to be paired with your favorite sides and sauces!

Temperature: Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for medium-rare

When it comes to cooking filet mignon in an air fryer, achieving the perfect doneness is key to a delicious and tender steak. For a medium-rare filet mignon, the target internal temperature should be around 135°F to 140°F (57°C to 60°C). This temperature range ensures that the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness while still being juicy and flavorful.

To start, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking filet mignon as it allows for a good sear on the outside while cooking the inside to the desired temperature. While the air fryer is heating up, prepare your steak by patting it dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface can prevent a good sear, so ensuring the steak is dry is essential.

Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the filet mignon in the basket. Depending on the size of your steak, you might need to adjust the cooking time. For a 1-inch thick filet mignon, cooking time will be approximately 10-12 minutes. However, always remember that cooking times can vary, so it's crucial to monitor the steak closely.

During the cooking process, you'll want to flip the steak halfway through to ensure even cooking. This simple step helps to create a beautiful, golden-brown crust on both sides. After flipping, continue cooking for the remaining time, again adjusting as needed based on your steak's thickness.

Finally, when the cooking time is up, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the filet mignon. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, ensuring it doesn't touch any bones. If the temperature reads 135°F to 140°F, your steak is ready for serving. If it's slightly lower, you can continue cooking for a minute or two, but be cautious not to overcook.

Time: Cook for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway, for a 1-inch thick cut

When it comes to cooking filet mignon in an air fryer, time is of the essence to ensure a perfectly cooked steak. The key to achieving a delicious, juicy filet mignon is to cook it for the right duration, and this can vary depending on the thickness of the cut. For a 1-inch thick filet mignon, the cooking time in an air fryer is a precise process that requires attention to detail.

The recommended cooking time for a 1-inch thick filet mignon is 8 to 12 minutes. This duration might seem relatively short compared to traditional cooking methods, but it's crucial to remember that air fryers work by circulating hot air, which cooks the food quickly and efficiently. Starting with preheating your air fryer is essential to ensure the steak cooks evenly. Set the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.

During the cooking process, it's important to flip the steak halfway through the cooking time. This step ensures that the meat cooks evenly on both sides, creating a beautiful, golden-brown crust. After flipping, continue cooking for the remaining time, which will depend on your desired doneness. For medium-rare, cook for the full 12 minutes; for medium, add a couple of more minutes; and for well-done, extend the cooking time by a further 2-3 minutes.

Here's a breakdown of the cooking process:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the 1-inch thick filet mignon in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 8 minutes, then carefully flip the steak.
• Continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes, depending on your desired doneness.
• Remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Remember, the air fryer's cooking time may vary slightly depending on your specific model and the power of your appliance. Always keep an eye on your steak to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness. With this precise cooking time, you'll be able to enjoy a perfectly cooked filet mignon with a tender interior and a mouthwatering crust.

Resting: Let meat rest 5 minutes after cooking for best results

When it comes to cooking filet mignon in an air fryer, one crucial step that often gets overlooked is the art of resting the meat. This simple yet essential technique can significantly enhance the overall quality and taste of your dish. After cooking the filet mignon to your desired level of doneness, it's important to let it rest for approximately 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and tender bite every time.

During the cooking process, especially in an air fryer, the meat can lose some of its moisture due to the rapid heat and circulation of hot air. By letting it rest, you create a barrier that traps the juices inside, preventing them from escaping and drying out the meat. This is particularly important for filet mignon, as it is a lean cut of meat that can become dry and lose its moisture quickly.

The resting period also allows the proteins in the meat to relax and re-solidify, resulting in a more tender texture. This is a scientific process where the meat's fibers relax, and the juices redistribute, creating a more succulent and flavorful piece of meat. It's a simple yet effective technique that can elevate your filet mignon from good to exceptional.

To ensure the best results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the filet mignon. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of around 135°F to 140°F. For medium, target 140°F to 145°F. Once you've reached your desired temperature, remove the filet mignon from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Resting is a fundamental step in the cooking process that should not be skipped. It ensures that your filet mignon is not only cooked to perfection but also served at its best, with optimal moisture retention and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. So, the next time you're cooking filet mignon in an air fryer, remember to let it rest for 5 minutes—it's the secret to a truly delicious meal.

Serving: Slice and serve with desired sides and sauces

When it comes to serving filet mignon cooked in an air fryer, the key is to ensure it's cooked to perfection and served promptly to maintain its tenderness and juicy texture. Here's a detailed guide on how to serve this delicious cut of meat:

Slicing the Filet Mignon: After removing the meat from the air fryer, let it rest for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender slice. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the filet mignon against the grain into thin slices. Cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender piece of meat. Aim for slices that are approximately 1/4 inch thick.

Plating and Presentation: Place the sliced filet mignon on a serving platter or individual plates. Arrange the slices in a fan-like or overlapping pattern for an appealing presentation. Consider adding a bed of fresh herbs or a small garnish to enhance the visual appeal.

Sides and Accompaniments: Serve the filet mignon with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. Some popular choices include roasted vegetables like asparagus, roasted potatoes, or grilled mushrooms. You can also offer a selection of sauces to cater to different tastes. Classic options include a rich red wine reduction, a tangy balsamic reduction, or a creamy mushroom sauce. For a lighter option, a lemon-garlic sauce or a herb-infused oil can complement the meat beautifully.

Temperature and Doneness: When serving, ensure the filet mignon is at the desired temperature. For medium-rare, it should be warm to the touch but still slightly pink in the center. For medium, the center should be pink, but the meat should be firm. If you prefer your meat more well-done, ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (medium) or 160°F (well-done). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the slice.

Serving Tips: Consider the number of guests and the portion size when serving. A generous 4-6 ounces of filet mignon per person is a good guideline. Accompany the meat with a selection of sides and sauces, allowing guests to customize their plates. This approach ensures everyone can enjoy their preferred level of doneness and side combinations.

Frequently asked questions