What To Know
- The first step to a delicious air fryer filet mignon is choosing the right cut.
- Look for a filet mignon that is at least 1 inch thick and has a good amount of marbling.
- Once the filet mignon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Are you craving a luxurious steak dinner but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Look no further than your trusty air fryer! This appliance can deliver restaurant-quality filet mignon with minimal effort and cleanup. This guide will walk you through every step, from selecting the perfect cut to achieving the ideal sear and doneness. So, get ready to elevate your weeknight meals and impress your guests with this simple yet elegant recipe.
Choosing the Right Filet Mignon
The first step to a delicious air fryer filet mignon is choosing the right cut. Look for a filet mignon that is at least 1 inch thick and has a good amount of marbling. Marbling refers to the streaks of fat throughout the meat, which contribute to flavor and tenderness.
- Grade: While many people opt for Prime, a good quality Choice filet mignon will work just fine.
- Thickness: A 1-inch thick steak is ideal for air frying. You may need to adjust cooking times for thicker or thinner cuts.
- Freshness: Choose a filet mignon that is bright red and has a firm texture. Avoid any that have a gray or brown hue.
Preparing the Filet Mignon
Once you’ve chosen your filet mignon, it’s time to prepare it for air frying. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Pat dry: Using paper towels, thoroughly pat the filet mignon dry. This will help ensure a crispy sear.
2. Season: Season the filet mignon generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika, to your preference.
3. Optional: Marinade: For extra flavor and moisture, you can marinate the filet mignon for at least 30 minutes before air frying. A simple marinade of olive oil, soy sauce, and garlic is a great option.
4. Rest: Allow the seasoned or marinated filet mignon to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help the meat cook more evenly.
Cooking the Filet Mignon in the Air Fryer
Now comes the fun part – air frying your filet mignon! Here’s how to achieve perfect results:
1. Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the steak: Carefully place the filet mignon in the air fryer basket, making sure it’s not touching the sides.
3. Cooking time: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your filet mignon and your desired level of doneness. Here’s a general guideline:
- Rare: 3-4 minutes per side
- Medium-rare: 4-5 minutes per side
- Medium: 5-6 minutes per side
- Medium-well: 6-7 minutes per side
- Well-done: 7-8 minutes per side
4. Flip: Flip the filet mignon halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
5. Rest: Once the filet mignon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Tips for Air Fryer Filet Mignon Success
- Don’t overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This can hinder air circulation and lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: For accurate doneness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the filet mignon. Here are the recommended temperatures:
- Rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium-rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
- Medium-well: 150°F (65°C)
- Well-done: 160°F (71°C)
- Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to find your personal favorite. Try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Resting: Allowing the filet mignon to rest after cooking is crucial. It prevents the juices from running out when you slice the steak.
Serving Your Air Fryer Filet Mignon
Your perfectly cooked air fryer filet mignon deserves a delicious accompaniment. Here are some ideas:
- Mashed potatoes: Classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with steak.
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add a touch of freshness and color to the plate.
- Green salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the steak.
- Red wine sauce: Elevate your meal with a rich and flavorful red wine sauce.
- Garlic butter: A simple garlic butter sauce adds a delicious touch to your filet mignon.
Beyond the Basics: Filet Mignon with a Twist
While a classic filet mignon is always satisfying, you can also get creative with your air fryer and create unique flavor combinations:
- Herb-crusted filet mignon: Mix your favorite herbs with a bit of olive oil and coat the filet mignon before air frying. Rosemary, thyme, and oregano are excellent choices.
- Peppercorn-crusted filet mignon: Coat the filet mignon with coarsely ground black peppercorns for a spicy and flavorful crust.
- Filet mignon with a balsamic glaze: Brush the cooked filet mignon with a balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
The End of the Journey: Reflecting on Your Air Fryer Filet Mignon
You’ve conquered the art of air fryer filet mignon. From choosing the perfect cut to achieving the ideal doneness, you’ve learned the secrets to a truly satisfying steak experience. Now, it’s time to savor the fruits of your labor. Enjoy your tender, juicy, and flavorful filet mignon, knowing that you’ve mastered the art of air fryer cooking.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I cook a frozen filet mignon in the air fryer?
A: It’s not recommended to cook a frozen filet mignon in the air fryer. The steak may not cook evenly and could end up dry and tough. Thaw the steak completely in the refrigerator before air frying.
Q: How long can I store cooked filet mignon in the refrigerator?
A: Cooked filet mignon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to refrigerate it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap.
Q: Can I reheat filet mignon in the air fryer?
A: Yes, you can reheat filet mignon in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the steak for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: What are some other cuts of meat I can cook in the air fryer?
A: The air fryer is a versatile appliance that can cook a variety of meats, including chicken breasts, pork chops, and even whole chicken. Just adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
