Air-Fried Filet Perfection: A Quick, Crispy Delight

how to make filet in air fryer

Filet mignon is a cut of beef from the smaller end of the tenderloin. It is one of the most expensive cuts of steak, known for being incredibly tender, juicy, and delicious. While it is a pricey dish to purchase at steakhouses, it is possible to make it at home in an air fryer. This paragraph will discuss how to make filet mignon in an air fryer, including the ingredients, preparation, and cooking process.

Characteristics Values
Prep Time 5-10 minutes
Cook Time 10-15 minutes
Total Time 15-27 minutes
Main Ingredients Filet Mignon, Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Butter
Optional Ingredients Garlic, Herbs, Cheese, Red Pepper Flakes
Equipment Air Fryer, Meat Thermometer

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Choosing the right cut of meat

Tender Cuts

As air frying is a dry-heat cooking method, similar to grilling, broiling, pan-frying, and oven roasting, it is best to opt for tender cuts of beef. These include Top Sirloin, KC Strip (also known as New York Strip), Ribeye, Tenderloin (or Filet Mignon), and Tri-Tip. Ground beef can also be easily prepared in an air fryer.

Marbling

Since air frying can dry out your meat, it is advisable to select cuts with a higher degree of marbling (small streaks of fat within the meat). This will ensure your steak stays juicy and tender. The ribeye, for example, is known for its gorgeous marbling and smooth texture. However, if you are making beef jerky, opt for a leaner cut like Eye of Round or Top Round.

Thickness

For even cooking and to prevent overcooking, choose steaks with a minimum thickness of 1 inch. Thicker cuts, such as the filet mignon, which is usually 1 to 2 inches thick, are easier to cook evenly and stay juicier.

USDA Grades

When selecting your steak, look for USDA Prime or Choice grades, which are top-quality cuts based on the USDA grading system. These cuts will have a higher level of marbling and tenderness.

Centre Cut

Although it will be pricier, choosing a centre cut from the smaller end of the tenderloin will deliver a good piece of meat.

Where to Buy

To ensure you are getting the best quality meat, opt for a reputable source. Shop at a trusted butcher, specialty meat shop, or high-quality grocery store known for its premium cuts.

Ask for Help

Don't be afraid to ask the butcher or meat department staff for assistance. If you're splurging on a steak, it's perfectly acceptable to seek advice to ensure you pick the right cut.

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Marinating the steaks

Preparing the Steaks:

  • Before you begin marinating, it is recommended to bring the steaks to room temperature. Take them out of the refrigerator about 20 to 30 minutes before you plan to cook them. This step helps ensure that the steaks cook evenly.
  • Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture from the surface of the steaks will help the seasoning adhere better and promote more effective browning during cooking.
  • Drizzle or brush a small amount of olive oil onto the steaks, coating both sides. The olive oil will help the seasoning stick to the meat and enhance the flavor.
  • Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Don't be afraid to be liberal with the seasoning, as this will enhance the flavor of the meat. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
  • For an extra boost of flavor, you can try marinating the steaks in a shallow dish with olive oil. This step is optional but can lead to juicier, more tender meat. Allow the steaks to marinate for about 10-12 minutes, or until they reach room temperature. You can cover them with plastic wrap if needed.

Compound Butter (Optional but Recommended):

  • While the steaks are coming to room temperature or marinating, you can prepare a compound butter to take your filet mignon to the next level. Combine softened butter with your choice of herbs, spices, or other ingredients. Some popular options include parsley, garlic, rosemary, thyme, or blue cheese.
  • Mix the ingredients together in a small bowl until fully incorporated. Then, transfer the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper and shape it into a small log. Twist the ends of the parchment paper to seal it, and place it in the refrigerator or freezer until it hardens.
  • This compound butter can be made in advance and will elevate your steak, giving it a rich, restaurant-like flavor.

Now that your steaks are properly marinated and seasoned, you can move on to the next steps of cooking your filet mignon in the air fryer, following the instructions provided in the full recipe. Enjoy your delicious, juicy, and perfectly cooked steak!

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Preparing the toppings

To make the compound butter, simply mix the ingredients in a small bowl and store the mixture in the refrigerator until it hardens. You can also freeze it in ice cube molds and place them on the counter to thaw while cooking your steaks.

Another option for a topping is blue cheese butter, which can be made by combining blue cheese, butter, parsley, and garlic. This topping is optional but is highly recommended for the best results. You can also try a garlic herb butter or cowboy butter, which is an unsalted butter mixture with fresh herbs and spices.

Once you have prepared your chosen toppings, simply slice or dollop them onto your cooked filet mignon and enjoy the delicious, restaurant-quality flavors!

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Cooking the steaks

The first step to cooking the perfect filet mignon in an air fryer is to take the steaks out of the refrigerator about 20 to 30 minutes before cooking and let them come to room temperature. This is an important step as it helps the steaks cook more evenly.

Next, you'll want to pat the steaks dry with paper towels and brush or drizzle both sides with olive oil. This will help the seasoning stick to the meat. Speaking of seasoning, the simplest option is to season the steaks generously with salt and pepper, but you can also add other spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or red pepper flakes. You could also use a steak seasoning blend like Montreal steak seasoning.

Now it's time to cook the steaks. Preheat your air fryer to between 380-450°F. Place the steaks in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching or only minimally touching. If your air fryer is on the smaller side, you may need to cook the steaks in batches.

Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steaks and your desired doneness. For a 1.5-inch thick steak, rare will be about 10-12 minutes, medium-rare will be 11-13 minutes, medium will be 12-14 minutes, medium-well will be 13-15 minutes, and well-done will be 14-16 minutes. It's best to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks to ensure they are cooked to your liking.

Once the steaks are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a juicier steak. For an extra touch of flavor and richness, top each steak with a pat of compound butter. This can be as simple as butter mixed with fresh herbs, garlic, and salt, or you could try a blue cheese butter or garlic herb butter.

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Resting the steaks

During the resting period, the temperature of the steak evens out. If you cut into the steak too soon, the juices will escape, and your steak will be drier. For this reason, it's best to let the steak rest on a plate or foil-covered plate, so it doesn't continue cooking in the residual heat of the air fryer.

Additionally, the steak's internal temperature will continue to rise slightly as it rests. For example, a medium-rare steak should have an internal temperature of around 130°F to 135°F. However, it will reach a final temperature of 140°F while resting, so you should remove it from the air fryer a few degrees below your desired level of doneness.

Resting your steaks is a simple yet crucial step to ensure your filet mignon is juicy, tender, and cooked to perfection.

Frequently asked questions

The cooking time depends on the thickness of the steak and the desired doneness. For a 1.5-inch steak, cook for 10-12 minutes for rare, 11-13 minutes for medium-rare, 12-14 minutes for medium, 13-15 minutes for medium-well, and 14-16 minutes for well-done.

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F or 450°F.

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For rare, the temperature should be 120°F; for medium-rare, 130°F-135°F; for medium, 140°F; for medium-well, 150°F; and for well-done, 160°F.

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