When it comes to succulent cuts of meat, few can rival the elegance and tenderness of a perfectly cooked filet mignon. Traditionally, this premium steak is prepared on a stovetop or grill, but have you ever considered using an air fryer to achieve the same exquisite results?
In this article, we will guide you through a tantalizing air fryer filet mignon recipe that combines convenience with culinary excellence. Get ready to embark on a journey of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Air Fryer Filet Mignon Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 filet mignon steaks (approximately 1 ½ inches thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Optional: 2 tablespoons butter for basting
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures the air fryer is at the optimal temperature for cooking the filet mignon.
- Season the steaks: While the air fryer is preheating, take the filet mignon steaks and brush them with olive oil, coating both sides. This will help the seasoning adhere to the meat. In a small bowl, combine the sea salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and garlic powder. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the steaks, ensuring all sides are well-coated.
- Place the steaks in the air fryer: Carefully place the seasoned filet mignon steaks into the preheated air fryer basket. Make sure to leave enough space between the steaks for proper air circulation.
- Cook the steaks: Cook the steaks in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 10-12 minutes for medium-rare doneness. For medium, increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the steaks and the desired level of doneness.
- Optional: Baste with butter: If desired, melt the butter and baste the steaks with it during the last 2 minutes of cooking. This step adds an extra touch of richness and flavor to the filet mignon.
- Rest and serve: Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the filet mignon from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender steak. Serve the filet mignon on a warmed plate and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Perfect Filet Mignon
- Choose quality cuts: For the best results, select high-quality filet mignon steaks with good marbling. This will enhance the tenderness and flavor of the meat.
- Adjust cooking times: Adjust the cooking times based on your personal preference for doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C), while medium is around 140-145°F (60-63°C).
- Resting time is essential: Allowing the steaks to rest after cooking is crucial as it helps retain the juices within the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
With this air fryer filet mignon recipe, you can enjoy the elegance and taste of a restaurant-quality steak right in the comfort of your own home. The air fryer provides a convenient and efficient way to cook filet mignon without compromising on flavor or texture.
By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can achieve perfectly cooked filet mignon with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a beautifully seasoned crust.
