Filet mignon is a tender and flavorful cut of steak that is often considered a luxury. Traditionally, filet mignon is cooked on a grill or stove. However, using an air fryer is a convenient and efficient method to cook this delicious steak. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to cook a perfect filet mignon in an air fryer.
Step 1: Preparing the filet mignon
Before cooking, it is essential to properly prepare the filet mignon. Start by removing the steak from the refrigerator and allowing it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking. Then, season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Rub the spices into the meat to enhance the flavor.
Step 2: Preheating the air fryer
While the filet mignon is coming to room temperature, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). The preheating process usually takes about 5 minutes, allowing the air fryer to reach the desired temperature for cooking.
Step 3: Cooking the filet mignon
Once the air fryer has reached the desired temperature, carefully place the seasoned filet mignon inside the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave enough space around the steak for proper air circulation. Cook the filet mignon for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. For medium-rare doneness, cook the steak until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F (55-57°C).
Tip: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your preference.
Step 4: Resting the filet mignon
After cooking, remove the filet mignon from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Resist the temptation to cut into the steak immediately as this will cause the juices to escape.
Now that you know how to cook a filet mignon in an air fryer, you can enjoy this luxurious steak at home with ease. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Preparing the Filet Mignon
Before you start cooking the filet mignon in an air fryer, it’s important to properly prepare the steak. Here’s how to do it:
- Remove the filet mignon from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the meat cook evenly.
- Pat the filet mignon dry using a paper towel. Removing excess moisture will help the steak get a nice sear.
- Season the steak with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or dried herbs if desired.
- If you prefer a more tender steak, you can marinate the filet mignon in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
By properly preparing the filet mignon, you’ll enhance its flavor and texture when cooking it in the air fryer.
Choosing the Right Cut
When cooking filet mignon in an air fryer, it is important to choose the right cut of meat. Filet mignon comes from the tenderloin, which is a muscle located near the backbone of the cow. This cut is known for its tenderness and mild flavor.
When selecting filet mignon, look for cuts that are about 1.5 to 2 inches thick. This thickness ensures that the steak will cook evenly in the air fryer. Additionally, choose filets that have a good amount of marbling. This intramuscular fat adds flavor and helps keep the steak moist during the cooking process.
It is also worth noting that filet mignon can be quite expensive compared to other cuts of beef. However, the tenderness and flavor make it a worthwhile splurge for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to a high-quality steak.
Remember that the quality of the meat will affect the overall taste and texture of the final dish. So, take your time to choose a filet mignon that looks fresh and has a vibrant color.
Once you’ve selected the perfect filet mignon, it’s time to move on to preparing and cooking it in the air fryer.
Seasoning the Meat
The key to a flavorful filet mignon is to season it properly. Before cooking the meat, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasoning to adhere better to the meat.
For seasoning, you can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or you can opt for a more complex blend of spices. To enhance the flavor of the filet mignon, you can use ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, or even a steak seasoning blend.
Start by generously seasoning all sides of the steak with salt and pepper. If you’re using additional spices, sprinkle them over the meat and press them gently to make them stick.
Remember, filet mignon has a delicate, buttery flavor, so avoid using overly strong spices or marinades that can overpower the meat. The goal is to enhance the natural flavors of the filet mignon without overwhelming them.
Once seasoned, let the filet mignon sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat and enhances the overall taste.
By properly seasoning the filet mignon, you can elevate its flavor and create a delicious and satisfying meal in the air fryer.
Cooking the Filet Mignon
To cook the filet mignon in an air fryer, you’ll first want to prepare the meat. Start by allowing it to come to room temperature, as this will help it cook more evenly. Pat dry the filet mignon using a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
Next, season the filet mignon with your desired spices and herbs. Common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Rub the seasoning into the meat, covering all sides evenly.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While the air fryer is heating, lightly coat the filet mignon with cooking spray to help prevent sticking. Place the filet mignon into the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between each piece for optimal air circulation.
Cook the filet mignon in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 9-12 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, cook it for around 9 minutes, while a medium steak will take closer to 12 minutes.
During cooking, it’s a good idea to flip the filet mignon once to ensure even browning on both sides. Use tongs to carefully turn the steak halfway through the cooking time.
Once the filet mignon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer. Let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, then serve and enjoy!
Variations:
If you prefer a crispy exterior on your filet mignon, you can optionally sear the meat in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side before transferring it to the air fryer. This will give the steak a nice crust while still benefiting from the air frying method.
For added flavor, you can also marinate the filet mignon overnight. Simply combine your choice of marinade ingredients, such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic, and let the steak sit in the marinade in the refrigerator overnight. Pat dry before seasoning and air frying.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before you start cooking your filet mignon in the air fryer, it’s important to preheat the appliance. Preheating ensures that the air fryer reaches the desired temperature and helps to cook the steak evenly. Follow these simple steps to preheat your air fryer:
- Place the air fryer on a stable and heat-resistant surface.
- Plug in the air fryer and turn it on.
- Set the temperature to the recommended setting for cooking filet mignon, which is typically around 400°F (200°C).
- Set the timer for a few minutes. Preheating time may vary depending on the model of your air fryer, but it usually takes around 5 minutes.
- During the preheating process, you can prepare your filet mignon by seasoning it with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
Once the air fryer has reached the set temperature, it’s ready for cooking the filet mignon. The preheating step ensures that the steak cooks evenly and results in a delicious, perfectly cooked filet mignon.
Air Frying the Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is a delicate and tender cut of beef that is known for its lean texture and rich flavor. While traditionally cooked in an oven or on a stovetop, using an air fryer can provide a quicker and healthier alternative. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to air fry a filet mignon to perfection.
Step 1: Preparing the Filet Mignon
Start by taking the filet mignon out of the refrigerator and allowing it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking. While waiting, you can season the meat with your preferred choice of spices or marinade.
Step 2: Preheating the Air Fryer
While the filet mignon is coming to room temperature, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the air fryer is hot enough to sear the meat and create a flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy.
Step 3: Air Frying the Filet Mignon
- Place the seasoned filet mignon in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave enough space between each piece to allow for proper air circulation.
- Insert the basket into the air fryer and set the timer for 8-10 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare filet mignon, aim for 8 minutes.
- Halfway through the cooking time, flip the filet mignon using tongs to ensure even cooking on both sides.
- Once the cooking time is up, check the internal temperature of the filet mignon using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, it should read around 135°F (57°C).
- If the desired temperature has not been reached, continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes and check again.
Step 4: Resting and Serving
Once the filet mignon is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Serve it as is or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Using an air fryer to cook filet mignon can help you achieve a delicious and evenly cooked steak in a shorter amount of time. It’s important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the filet mignon, so adjust accordingly. With the right technique and seasonings, you can enjoy a perfectly air-fried filet mignon from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Q&A
What is a filet mignon?
Filet mignon is a tender cut of beef that comes from the smaller end of the tenderloin.
Can you cook filet mignon in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook filet mignon in an air fryer. It is a quick and easy method that results in a juicy and flavorful steak.
How do you cook filet mignon in an air fryer?
To cook filet mignon in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Place the steak in the air fryer basket and cook for about 8-10 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving.
What are the advantages of cooking filet mignon in an air fryer?
Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer has several advantages. It is a quick cooking method that helps retain the juiciness and tenderness of the steak. The air fryer also helps create a crispy outer crust on the steak, adding an enjoyable texture to the dish.
Can I use frozen filet mignon in an air fryer?
Yes, you can use frozen filet mignon in an air fryer. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time to ensure thorough cooking. It is recommended to thaw the steak before cooking for more even results.