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November 5, 2024
Filet mignon, also known as the “king of steaks,” is a tender and flavorful cut of beef that is perfect for grilling. However, cooking a thick filet mignon on the grill can be a challenge. It requires careful attention to ensure that the outside is seared to perfection while the inside remains juicy and tender.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking a thick filet mignon on the grill, from selecting the right cut to achieving the perfect level of doneness. By following these steps, you can impress your friends and family with a restaurant-quality steak cooked to perfection.
First things first, let’s start with the basics – selecting the right cut of filet mignon. Look for cuts that are at least 1.5 to 2 inches thick, as this will help to ensure that the steak cooks evenly and remains juicy. It is important to choose high-quality, well-marbled filets to maximize flavor and tenderness.
Next, you will want to prepare your grill. Preheat the grill to high heat, around 400-450°F (204-232°C). This high heat will help to create a delicious sear on the outside of the steak, while locking in the juices and flavors.
Grilling thick filet mignon: a delicious and juicy steak
Grilling thick filet mignon is a fantastic way to showcase the tenderness and rich flavor of this high-quality cut of beef. With its mouthwatering marbling and buttery texture, filet mignon is a favorite among steak lovers. By following a few simple steps, you can cook a thick filet mignon to perfection on the grill, resulting in a delicious and juicy steak that will impress your family and friends.
1. Selecting the perfect cut
When grilling filet mignon, it all starts with choosing the right cut of meat. Look for thick, well-marbled filet mignon steaks that are at least 1.5 inches thick. The thickness is important to ensure a juicy and tender steak, as it allows for proper cooking without the risk of overcooking the meat.
2. Preparing the steak
Before grilling, it’s important to bring the filet mignon to room temperature, which allows for even cooking. Take the steaks out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling.
While the steaks come to room temperature, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure a nicely seared exterior while keeping the interior tender and juicy.
3. Seasoning the steak
Keep the seasoning simple to let the natural flavors of the filet mignon shine. Sprinkle both sides of the steak generously with salt and black pepper, ensuring an even coating.
For an extra burst of flavor, you can also add a sprinkle of your favorite herbs or spices, such as thyme or garlic powder.
4. Grilling the steak
Place the seasoned filet mignon steaks on the preheated grill. Close the lid and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness is achieved. Time may vary depending on the thickness of the steaks and your preferred level of doneness.
For optimal grill marks and flavor, avoid flipping the steaks too often. A good rule of thumb is to flip the steaks only once, halfway through the cooking time.
5. Resting and serving
Once cooked to perfection, remove the filet mignon steaks from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This rest allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.
Now it’s time to serve and enjoy your deliciously grilled thick filet mignon steaks. Pair them with your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables, for a complete and satisfying meal.
With these simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering grilled thick filet mignon that will impress even the most discerning steak connoisseurs. So fire up the grill and get ready to indulge in a tender and juicy steak that is sure to delight your taste buds!
Preparation: getting your grill ready
Before you start cooking your thick filet mignon on the grill, it’s essential to make sure your grill is ready for the task. Follow these steps to prepare your grill properly:
1. Clean the grill grates: Start by brushing the grates clean using a stiff wire brush. This will remove any leftover debris or food particles from previous use.
2. Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to a high heat, around 450-500°F (232-260°C). This will ensure that a proper sear is achieved, creating a flavorful crust on the steak.
3. Oil the grates: Using tongs and a folded paper towel soaked in vegetable oil, carefully rub the grates with oil to prevent sticking. Be cautious while doing this step to avoid any accidental burns.
4. Create heat zones: If you have a gas grill, turn off one burner to create an indirect heat zone. For charcoal grills, set up your coals to one side, leaving the other side empty. This will allow you to have both direct and indirect heat options.
5. Close the lid: Close the lid of the grill and let it continue heating for 10-15 minutes. This will ensure that the grates are evenly heated and ready for cooking.
By properly preparing your grill, you’ll create an ideal cooking environment for your thick filet mignon, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak. Now it’s time to move on to the next step: seasoning and grilling your filet mignon.
Seasoning: enhancing the flavor
When it comes to cooking a thick filet mignon on the grill, seasoning plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of the meat. Here are some seasoning options to consider:
- Salt and pepper: A simple combination of salt and pepper can go a long way in bringing out the natural flavors of the filet mignon. Sprinkle a generous amount of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of the steak before grilling.
- Herbs and spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to add depth and complexity to the flavor of the filet mignon. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and oregano. Mix the herbs and spices together in a small bowl and rub the mixture onto the steak before grilling.
- Marinades: Marinating the filet mignon before grilling can infuse it with flavors and tenderize the meat. You can create your own marinade using ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic. Simply place the steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours before grilling. Remember to discard the marinade after use.
Regardless of the seasoning options you choose, make sure to let the filet mignon sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking. Once seasoned, preheat the grill to high heat and cook the steak to your desired level of doneness. Enjoy the flavorful and juicy thick filet mignon straight off the grill!
Grilling techniques: achieving the perfect cook
Grilling a thick filet mignon to perfection requires the right techniques and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect cook:
1. Preheat the grill: Before you start grilling, make sure to preheat your grill to high heat. This will ensure that the steak gets a nice sear on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
2. Season the steak: Generously season the filet mignon with salt and pepper. You can also add any other desired seasonings or a marinade to enhance the flavor.
3. Oil the grill grates: To prevent sticking, brush the grill grates with oil or use a non-stick cooking spray before placing the steak on the grill.
4. Use a two-zone fire: Create two zones on your grill by having one side set to high heat and the other side set to medium heat. This will allow you to sear the steak properly before finishing it with indirect heat.
5. Sear the steak: Place the filet mignon directly over the high heat zone and sear it for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until nice grill marks are achieved.
6. Finish with indirect heat: Move the seared steak to the medium heat zone and continue cooking it indirectly until the desired doneness is reached. This will help ensure that the steak cooks evenly without burning the outside.
7. Use a meat thermometer: To achieve the perfect level of doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 135°F (57°C).
8. Rest the steak: Once the filet mignon is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
Remember, practice makes perfect. With these grilling techniques, you’ll be able to cook a thick filet mignon on the grill that is juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
Resting and slicing: ensuring tenderness
After grilling your thick filet mignon to perfection, it is crucial to let it rest before slicing it. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and the meat fibers to relax, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.
Pre, Beef Filet Mignon Steak, Grass-Fed, Pasture-Raised, 5 oz
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When you remove the filet mignon from the grill, loosely cover it with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time will allow the internal temperature to even out and the juices to reabsorb into the meat.
Slicing the filet mignon
When you’re ready to slice the filet mignon, make sure to use a sharp, serrated knife. This will ensure clean, smooth cuts through the steak.
Begin by cutting the filet mignon against the grain. This means you should slice it perpendicular to the lines you see on the surface of the meat. Cutting against the grain will help break up the muscle fibers and make the steak more tender.
Serving the filet mignon
Once you’ve sliced the filet mignon, arrange the individual slices on a platter or serving plate. You can serve it as is, or add some finishing touches like a drizzle of chimichurri sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Remember, resting and slicing your thick filet mignon properly is essential to achieving a tender and succulent steak that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Q&A
What is the best way to cook thick filet mignon on the grill?
The best way to cook thick filet mignon on the grill is to first sear the steak on high heat to create a nice crust, then finish cooking it on lower heat until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
How long do I need to grill a thick filet mignon?
The grilling time for a thick filet mignon will depend on your preferred level of doneness. As a general guideline, you can grill it for about 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, 6-8 minutes per side for medium, and 8-10 minutes per side for medium-well.
Should I marinate the thick filet mignon before grilling?
While marinating the filet mignon can add some extra flavor, it is not necessary for a thick cut steak. Filet mignon is already a tender and flavorful cut of meat, so it can be simply seasoned with salt and pepper before grilling.
What temperature should I set the grill to for cooking thick filet mignon?
For cooking thick filet mignon on the grill, it is recommended to preheat the grill to high heat (around 450-500°F or 232-260°C) to sear the steak. After searing, the heat can be reduced to medium (around 350-400°F or 176-204°C) to cook the steak to the desired doneness.
Should I let the thick filet mignon rest after grilling?
Yes, it is important to let the thick filet mignon rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to become more tender. Simply tent the steak with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.