How to make perfect air fryer filet mignon: a complete step-by-step guide

Air fryers have quickly become one of the most popular kitchen appliances for home cooks, and for good reason—they make cooking quicker, cleaner, and often healthier. While many people associate air fryers with chicken wings and french fries, they can also handle more sophisticated dishes, like filet mignon.

Filet mignon is one of the most luxurious cuts of beef, known for its tenderness and melt-in-your-mouth texture. When prepared in an air fryer, this high-end steak becomes incredibly easy to cook, while still delivering on flavor and texture. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to select, season, and cook filet mignon to perfection using your air fryer.

What is filet mignon?

Filet mignon is a steak cut from the tenderloin, which is the most tender part of the cow. It’s located beneath the ribs and next to the backbone. Because this muscle doesn’t bear much weight, it doesn’t get tough or fibrous, making filet mignon one of the softest and most premium cuts available.

This cut is prized for its buttery texture and mild flavor. It’s typically served in high-end steakhouses and commands a premium price in butcher shops and grocery stores. Despite its reputation, filet mignon is simple to prepare at home, especially with the help of an air fryer.

In terms of nutrition, a 6-ounce portion of filet mignon contains around 300 calories, 22 grams of fat, and 24 grams of protein. It’s an excellent choice for those following low-carb or keto diets due to its high protein and low carbohydrate content.

Why use an air fryer for filet mignon?

Using an air fryer to cook filet mignon might not be the most traditional method, but it offers several significant advantages:

• Speed: Air fryers preheat quickly and cook food faster than conventional ovens or grills.

• Consistency: Air fryers use circulating hot air to cook food evenly on all sides, which is ideal for a thick, uniform cut like filet mignon.

• Less mess: There’s no need for a grill or hot oil splattering on the stovetop.

• Energy efficiency: Air fryers use less energy and heat up your kitchen far less than ovens.

The result? A seared exterior and juicy, tender interior, all without having to fire up a grill or make a trip to a steakhouse.

Choosing the best filet mignon for air frying

Before you begin cooking, it’s important to select the right filet mignon. Here are a few tips:

• Thickness matters: Look for cuts that are 1.5 to 2 inches thick. Thinner cuts can easily overcook in an air fryer.

• Marbling: Although filet mignon is a lean cut, small streaks of fat (called marbling) can enhance flavor and tenderness.

• USDA grades: Choose USDA Prime or USDA Choice grades for the best quality. Prime has the most marbling and tenderness.

• Source: Grass-fed beef tends to be leaner and has a more earthy flavor, while grain-fed beef is usually more marbled and buttery.

Ask your butcher to cut the steaks to your specifications, and if possible, allow the meat to age for a few days in the fridge for enhanced flavor.

Tools and ingredients you’ll need

You don’t need much to prepare air fryer filet mignon, which is one of the best parts of this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

Tools:

• Air fryer (basket-style or toaster-oven-style)

• Tongs

• Instant-read meat thermometer

Ingredients:

• 2 filet mignon steaks (6–8 oz each)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

• Optional: garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, or steak seasoning blend

• Optional topping: garlic herb butter

Prepping the filet mignon for the air fryer

Start by removing the filet mignon from the refrigerator and allowing it to come to room temperature—this usually takes about 30 minutes. Cooking cold steak can result in uneven doneness.

Next, pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface can prevent proper searing. Then:

1. Brush lightly with olive oil on all sides.

2. Season generously with salt and black pepper. You can also add garlic powder, steak rubs, or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme if desired.

3. Optional marinade: While not traditional, you can marinate your steaks for an hour or two using balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, or soy sauce for added depth of flavor.

How to cook filet mignon in an air fryer (step-by-step)

Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is surprisingly simple once you’ve got your technique down. Follow these steps for consistent, mouthwatering results:

1. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F for at least 5 minutes.

2. Place the steaks in the basket: Make sure there is enough space between the steaks for air to circulate. Do not overcrowd.

3. Cook time guide by doneness:

   • Rare (125°F): 8–9 minutes

   • Medium-rare (130–135°F): 10–11 minutes

   • Medium (140–145°F): 12–13 minutes

   • Medium-well (150°F+): 14–15 minutes

   Flip the steak halfway through cooking (around minute 5–6 for medium-rare).

4. Check temperature: Use a meat thermometer to measure internal temperature at the thickest part of the steak.

5. Rest the steaks: Remove and let the steaks rest on a cutting board for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Finishing touches: letting it rest and adding flavor

Letting your filet mignon rest is non-negotiable. This allows juices to redistribute evenly, so every bite is tender and moist. Tent the steaks loosely with foil while resting.

If you want to take the flavor up a notch, top the steak with a pat of garlic herb butter just before serving. You can make your own by mixing:

• 1/2 stick of softened butter

• 1 minced garlic clove

• Chopped parsley or chives

• A pinch of salt

The butter will melt over the warm steak and create a rich, savory finish.

Sides that pair well with filet mignon

Filet mignon is the star of the plate, but the right side dishes can elevate the whole meal. Consider pairing with:

• Air fryer asparagus or green beans: Crisp, healthy, and easy to prepare.

• Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.

• Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and Parmesan.

• Garlic sautéed mushrooms for an earthy complement.

• Red wine: A full-bodied cabernet sauvignon or merlot pairs beautifully.

Flavor variations and advanced tips

Want to change things up or refine your technique? Try these ideas:

• Peppercorn crust: Roll your filet in coarsely cracked black pepper for a steakhouse-style crust.

• Bacon-wrapped filet mignon: Wrap uncooked bacon around the steak and secure with toothpicks before air frying.

• Red wine reduction sauce: Simmer red wine with shallots and beef broth until it thickens for an elegant finish.

• Sous vide + air fryer method: Cook the steak sous vide to your preferred temperature, then air fry for 2–3 minutes per side to crisp the exterior.

Common mistakes to avoid

Even experienced home cooks can make mistakes with filet mignon. Here are some common ones to avoid:

• Overcooking: Filet mignon is lean and can dry out quickly. Always use a meat thermometer.

• Skipping the preheat: A cold air fryer won’t sear properly.

• Under-seasoning: Salt is crucial to bringing out the natural flavors.

• Not letting it rest: Skipping this step will cause all the juices to leak out when cut.

Storing and reheating leftovers

If you have leftover filet mignon, store it properly to preserve the flavor:

• Refrigerate: Wrap in foil or place in an airtight container. Store for up to 3 days.

• Reheat in air fryer: Heat at 350°F for 2–3 minutes. Avoid microwaving—it will ruin the texture.

• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutritional information

A typical 6-ounce filet mignon contains:

• Calories: 275–300

• Protein: 24–28g

• Fat: 22g (mostly saturated and monounsaturated)

• Carbs: 0g

Filet mignon is a good option for keto and paleo eaters and is naturally gluten-free and sugar-free.

FAQs

Can you cook filet mignon in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fryers are excellent for cooking filet mignon quickly and evenly with minimal mess.

How long does it take to cook filet mignon in an air fryer?
Depending on thickness and doneness, it usually takes between 8–15 minutes at 400°F.

What temperature should filet mignon be cooked to?
Use a meat thermometer to check:

• Rare: 120–125°F

• Medium-rare: 130–135°F

• Medium: 140–145°F

Do you need to flip steak in the air fryer?
Yes. Flip the filet halfway through cooking for even browning on both sides.

Can I use frozen filet mignon?
Yes, but for best results, thaw completely before air frying. Cooking from frozen may lead to uneven doneness.

Conclusion and final tips

Cooking filet mignon in the air fryer is a game-changer for steak lovers. You don’t need a grill or fancy equipment—just a few basic tools and quality ingredients. The air fryer delivers a perfect sear, juicy interior, and foolproof process that anyone can master.

Experiment with different seasoning blends and sides to make it your own. Whether you’re prepping a special dinner for two or just treating yourself, this method will help you serve restaurant-quality steak right from your kitchen.

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