Filet Mignon in Air Fryer: A Quick and Delicious Way to Cook Steak

 

Filet mignon is one of the most tender and luxurious cuts of beef, known for its buttery texture and mild flavor. Traditionally cooked on the stovetop or grill, filet mignon can also be prepared in an air fryer, offering a quick and convenient method that results in a perfectly cooked steak every time. Using an air fryer allows you to achieve a beautifully seared exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to cook filet mignon in an air fryer, provide tips for the best results, and suggest variations to enhance its flavor.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Filet Mignon?

Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer has several advantages over traditional cooking methods:

• Consistent Results: The air fryer provides even heat circulation, ensuring that the steak is cooked evenly on all sides, resulting in a perfect sear and tender interior.
• Time-Saving: Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is faster than using a stovetop or oven, making it a great option for a quick and delicious meal.
• Healthier Cooking: The air fryer requires little to no oil, reducing the overall fat content while still achieving a crispy exterior.
• Convenience: The air fryer allows for hands-off cooking, so you can focus on preparing side dishes or setting the table while the steak cooks.

These benefits make the air fryer an excellent tool for cooking filet mignon quickly and easily.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Filet Mignon

To make a delicious filet mignon in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

• Filet Mignon: 2 (6-ounce) filet mignon steaks, about 1.5 inches thick. Choose steaks with good marbling for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Helps create a nice sear on the steak.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. For seasoning.
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Adds a mild spiciness.
• Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Enhances the flavor of the steak.
• Fresh Herbs: Optional, such as rosemary or thyme, for added flavor.

These simple ingredients will help you create a perfectly cooked filet mignon in your air fryer.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the steaks cook evenly and develop a nice sear.

2. Season the Steaks:
Pat the filet mignon steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Rub the steaks with olive oil, then season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. If using fresh herbs, place them on top of the steaks.

3. Place the Steaks in the Air Fryer:
Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching or overlapping. This allows for proper air circulation and even cooking.

4. Cook the Steaks:
Cook the filet mignon in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 9-10 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through the cooking time. For medium, cook for 11-12 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for medium.

5. Rest the Steaks:
Remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the filet mignon against the grain and serve immediately. Enjoy your perfectly cooked steak with your favorite side dishes.

These steps guide you through making a delicious filet mignon in the air fryer, ensuring it turns out perfectly every time.

Tips for Perfect Filet Mignon in the Air Fryer

To ensure your filet mignon turns out tender and flavorful every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose the Right Cut: Look for filet mignon steaks that are about 1.5 inches thick and have good marbling. Thicker steaks cook more evenly and stay juicier in the air fryer.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer helps create a good sear on the steaks and ensures even cooking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To achieve your desired level of doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks. This ensures accuracy and prevents overcooking.
• Rest the Steaks: Allowing the steaks to rest after cooking is crucial for keeping them tender and juicy. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
• Experiment with Seasonings: While salt, pepper, and garlic powder are classic seasonings, feel free to experiment with other spices and herbs to suit your taste. Paprika, cumin, or a steak seasoning blend can add extra flavor.

Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked filet mignon in your air fryer every time.

Delicious Filet Mignon Recipes and Variations

1. Garlic Butter Filet Mignon:
After cooking the steaks in the air fryer, top each steak with a pat of garlic butter and let it melt over the warm steak. This adds a rich, buttery flavor to the filet mignon.

2. Herb-Crusted Filet Mignon:
Mix chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley with olive oil and press the mixture onto the steaks before cooking. This creates a flavorful herb crust on the steaks.

3. Peppercorn Filet Mignon:
Coat the steaks with crushed black peppercorns before cooking for a bold, spicy crust that pairs well with the tender filet mignon.

4. Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon:
Wrap each filet mignon steak with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick before cooking. The bacon adds a smoky flavor and helps keep the steaks moist.

5. Blue Cheese Filet Mignon:
Top each cooked steak with crumbled blue cheese and place under a broiler for a minute until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This adds a tangy, creamy contrast to the rich steak.

These recipes and variations allow you to customize your filet mignon to suit your taste and create a delicious and unique meal.

Nutritional Information

Filet mignon is a lean cut of beef that is high in protein and low in fat compared to other cuts of steak. Here’s a general breakdown based on one serving (6-ounce steak):

Per Serving (Based on 6-ounce steak):

• Calories: 270
• Total Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 0g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 34g

Balancing Indulgence:

Filet mignon can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Pair it with vegetables, a side salad, or whole grains for a complete and nutritious meal.

Serving Suggestions

Filet mignon is a versatile main dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve filet mignon with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a healthy and colorful plate.
• With Mashed Potatoes: Pair filet mignon with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• With a Salad: Serve filet mignon with a fresh green salad topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a light and refreshing meal.
• With Risotto: Pair filet mignon with a creamy mushroom risotto or Parmesan risotto for a rich and decadent meal.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve filet mignon with a side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any delicious juices.

These serving suggestions will help you enjoy filet mignon in a variety of ways, whether you’re having it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak in the air fryer?

Yes, you can use other cuts of steak in the air fryer, such as ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness.

Do I need to flip the steak while cooking in the air fryer?

Yes, flipping the steak halfway through the cooking time ensures even cooking and a uniform sear on both sides.

How do I store leftover filet mignon?

Store leftover filet mignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the air fryer at a low temperature until warmed through.

Can I cook frozen filet mignon in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen filet mignon in the air fryer, but it will require additional cooking time. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness.

How do I know when the filet mignon is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the filet mignon. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F (54°C), and for medium, aim for 140°F (60°C).

Conclusion

Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this tender and flavorful cut of beef. With its perfectly seared exterior and juicy interior, filet mignon cooked in the air fryer is sure to impress. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can create a delicious filet mignon that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with different seasonings and variations to make this luxurious steak your own!