Mastering Air Fryer Filet Mignon: Restaurant-Quality Steak in Minutes
Prepare to revolutionize your weeknight dinners and special occasion meals with this incredible Air Fryer Filet Mignon recipe. What was once considered a luxury reserved for upscale restaurants or complicated grilling sessions can now be achieved in your own kitchen with astonishing ease and speed. The air fryer transforms a premium cut of beef into a perfectly seared, incredibly juicy, and melt-in-your-mouth tender steak, all in a matter of minutes. Say goodbye to the hassle of firing up the BBQ or dealing with smoky stovetops – perfection is just a few simple steps away.
There’s almost nothing more satisfying than a perfectly cooked, juicy steak. Filet mignon, known for its exceptional tenderness and mild flavor, has historically been reserved for special occasions. However, with the emergence of the air fryer as a kitchen essential, achieving restaurant-quality results at home is easier than ever. This innovative cooking method allows you to enjoy a tender and flavorful filet mignon not just for celebrations, but as a delicious and surprisingly quick regular weeknight dinner.
If you’re looking to expand your air fryer steak repertoire beyond this exquisite filet, we have a range of other fantastic recipes to explore:
- For a robust and flavorful cut, try our air fryer ribeye.
- For a fun and customizable meal, our air fryer steak kebabs are a must-try.
- Looking for a budget-friendly yet delicious option? Check out the air fryer London broil.
- And for a quick appetizer or a component for a bigger meal, these air fryer garlic steak bites are incredibly popular.
For those new to the world of air frying, or simply seeking more culinary inspiration, explore our comprehensive list of over 100 Air Fryer Recipes for Beginners. It’s packed with easy-to-follow guides that will make you an air frying expert in no time.
Why Choose the Air Fryer for Filet Mignon?
The air fryer is a game-changer for cooking steak, especially a delicate cut like filet mignon. Its rapid hot air circulation creates a mini convection oven effect, delivering unparalleled results. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love making filet in your air fryer:
- Effortless Elegance: Enjoy restaurant-quality filet mignon at home with minimal effort and without the need for complex cooking techniques or equipment. It’s perfect for both special dinners and indulgent weeknight treats.
- Consistent Perfection: The air fryer ensures incredibly even cooking from edge to edge. You get a beautiful, golden-brown sear on the outside and a perfectly tender, juicy interior every single time.
- Less Mess, More Flavor: Forget the smoky kitchen and greasy cleanup associated with pan-searing. Air frying keeps the mess contained while still locking in all the delicious flavors.
- Customizable Culinary Experience: While simple salt and pepper are fantastic, this recipe provides a perfect canvas for your creativity. Customize your steak with your favorite toppings like rich blue cheese butter, garlic herb butter, or a vibrant chimichurri for an elevated taste.
- Versatile Pairing: Filet mignon pairs beautifully with almost any side dish. Serve it with your favorite roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a classic potato dish for a complete and satisfying meal.
Air Frying Tip: Achieving Perfect Steak Doneness
Achieving the ideal doneness is crucial for any steak, and filet mignon is no exception. While cooking times are a good guide, the only truly accurate way to ensure your steak is cooked to your preference and is safe to eat is by checking its internal temperature with a reliable meat thermometer. According to the FDA, the proper temperatures for steak doneness are:
- Rare: 125 degrees F (52°C) – Warm red center.
- Medium-Rare: 135 degrees F (57°C) – Cool red center.
- Medium: 145 degrees F (63°C) – Warm pink center.
- Medium Well: 155 degrees F (68°C) – Slightly pink center.
- Well Done: 160 degrees F (71°C) – Little to no pink.
I cannot stress enough the importance of using a meat thermometer. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures you get your steak exactly how you like it, preventing overcooking or undercooking. For this recipe, my recommended cooking time of 6 minutes per side generally yields a beautiful medium to medium-well doneness. Remember, cooking times may need to be slightly adjusted based on the specific size and thickness of your steaks, as well as the wattage and model of your air fryer. Thicker steaks will naturally require more time, while thinner cuts will cook faster.
Ingredients for Your Perfect Air Fryer Filet Mignon
This recipe calls for minimal ingredients, allowing the natural, exquisite flavor of the filet mignon to shine through. Quality ingredients make a significant difference!
- Filet Mignon Steaks: Opt for high-quality, fresh filet mignon. This tender and lean cut is perfect for a truly upscale meal. Look for steaks that are about 1.5 to 2 inches thick for optimal results and a good sear-to-interior ratio.
- Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil not only enhances the flavor of the steak but also helps create that desirable crispy, golden-brown exterior in the air fryer. You can also use avocado oil or grapeseed oil for their high smoke points.
- Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: These simple, classic seasonings are all you truly need to let the natural taste of the beef shine. Kosher salt helps to draw out moisture initially and then forms a beautiful crust. Freshly ground pepper adds a pungent, aromatic kick.
- Optional Toppings: Blue Cheese Butter, Garlic Herb Butter, Garlic Butter, or other preferred compound butters or sauces. These are fantastic for adding an extra layer of richness and gourmet flavor. A dollop of compound butter melting over a hot steak is pure indulgence!
I personally use my Cosori Air Fryer to achieve these consistently perfect filets. Keep in mind that air fryers can vary significantly in wattage and cooking efficiency, so you might need to make minor adjustments to your cooking times. It’s always a good idea to monitor your steak closely, especially the first time you make this recipe in your specific air fryer.
How to Air Fry Filet Mignon: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for a flawless air fryer filet mignon:
- Prepare the Steaks: Begin by using paper towels to thoroughly pat each filet mignon steak dry. Removing excess moisture is a critical step, as it helps achieve a superior sear and crust. Once dry, brush both sides of each steak generously with olive oil, ensuring an even coating.
- Season Generously: Season the oiled steaks liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it forms a key part of the flavor and crust. You can gently press the seasonings into the meat to ensure they adhere well.
- Preheat and Cook: If your air fryer has a preheat function, preheat it to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes. This helps ensure a quicker, more even sear. Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd it. Air fry at 380°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping the steaks halfway through the cooking process (after 5-6 minutes) to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides.
- Air Fryer Onions: These caramelized onions achieve a perfect crisp-tender texture in the air fryer and make an excellent, savory steak topper, adding a touch of sweetness.
- Cowboy Butter: This incredible compound butter, made with unsalted butter, fresh herbs, and spices, can be sliced and placed directly on top of your hot steak to melt, or melted down and used as a dipping sauce. Its robust flavor profile is a steak lover’s dream.
- Air Fryer Frozen Vegetables: For ultimate convenience and a healthy balance, tossing your favorite frozen veggies in the air fryer is a quick and easy way to create a perfect side dish that completes this gourmet meal.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: Don’t reserve this unique seasoning blend just for bagels! A sprinkle on your steak after resting adds a fantastic crunch and burst of savory flavors like sesame, poppy seeds, garlic, and onion.
- Air Fryer Mushrooms: This Air Fryer Mushrooms recipe is incredibly delicious and simple to make with just a few basic ingredients. Their earthy umami flavor and tender texture make them a classic and perfect steak topping.
- Classic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a timeless pairing that soaks up the steak juices beautifully.
- Crisp Garden Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak.
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Air Fryer
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Meat Thermometer
- 2 filet mignon, about 4-6 ounces each
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
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To prepare the filets, pat steaks dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear, then coat both the top and bottom of each piece with olive oil.
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Next, season generously with salt and pepper, according to your preferences. Don’t be afraid to rub the seasoning into the meat.
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Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees F (193°C) for a few minutes. Then, transfer the seasoned steaks to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping the steaks halfway through cooking (after 5-6 minutes).
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Use a meat thermometer to confirm your preferred doneness, referring to the temperature guide provided above. Once cooked, for an extra tender and juicy steak, let the steak rest on a cutting board, loosely tented with foil, for about 5-10 minutes before eating. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Patting Dry: Remove as much surface moisture as possible with paper towels.
- Oil: A light coating of oil helps conduct heat and promotes browning.
- High Heat: Ensure your air fryer is preheated to the recommended temperature (380°F).
- Single Layer: Do not overcrowd the basket. Proper air circulation is key for crisping.
- Flipping: Flipping halfway ensures even exposure to heat on both sides.
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Use a meat thermometer to confirm your preferred doneness, referring to the temperature chart above. This step is critical to ensure you get your desired result and avoid an overcooked or undercooked steak. Once cooked to your liking, remove the steaks from the air fryer. For an extra juicy and tender steak, let it rest on a cutting board or plate, loosely tented with foil, for about 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the internal juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and succulent bite.
Click Here to Get the Top Ten Air Fryer Questions Answered
Wondering what oils are best to use in the Air Fryer? Check out this complete list by clicking here.
What to Serve with This Restaurant-Quality Filet Mignon
A perfectly cooked filet mignon deserves equally delicious accompaniments. Here are some fantastic side dishes and toppings that complement the rich flavor and tender texture of your air-fried steak:
How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Filet Mignon
While fresh filet mignon is always best, sometimes you might have leftovers. To store, allow any leftover filet mignon to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This ensures its freshness and prevents it from drying out.
When it comes to reheating, the air fryer is your best friend for steak! It helps to bring the steak back to a delicious temperature without overcooking it or making it rubbery. For more detailed information and the best techniques to preserve the steak’s tenderness and flavor, check out this comprehensive post on how to reheat steak in the air fryer.
More Delicious Air Fryer Steak Recipes
If you loved this air fryer filet mignon, you’ll be thrilled to discover how versatile your air fryer is for cooking various cuts of steak. Here are some more fantastic air fryer steak recipes to keep your meal rotation exciting and delicious:
Dinner
Air Fryer Flank Steak
Beef
Air Fryer T-Bone Steak
Dinner
Air Fryer New York Strip Steak
Dinner
Air Fryer Cube Steak
This air fryer method for cooking filet mignon is truly fast, easy, and yields results that are consistently tender and juicy. Once you experience the convenience and deliciousness, you might find yourself saying goodbye to the grill for this particular cut!
Air Fryer Filet Mignon
Rate
Equipment
Ingredients
OPTIONAL: Blue Cheese Butter, Garlic Herb Butter, or Garlic Butter
Instructions
Video
Notes
For a medium steak, we typically cook for about 6 minutes on each side. Remember to use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature for your desired doneness.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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FAQ’s About Air Fryer Filet Mignon
What is considered a serving of steak?
While the filets in this recipe are typically about 4-6 ounces each, a recommended serving of steak is generally around 3 ounces (85 grams). This smaller portion size is based on dietary guidelines for meat consumption. However, when indulging in a premium cut like filet mignon, many people enjoy a larger portion, especially if it’s the main protein of their meal.
Why is Filet Mignon considered one of the best beef cuts?
Filet mignon is renowned for its exceptional tenderness, which is its hallmark characteristic. This cut comes from the tenderloin, a muscle along the cow’s spine that is not weight-bearing and sees very little movement. This lack of muscle activity results in very fine muscle fibers and minimal connective tissue, making it incredibly tender – so tender, in fact, that a really well-cooked filet can often be cut with just a fork. While ribeye is celebrated for its marbling and rich flavor, filet mignon stands out for its delicate, buttery texture.
What is the best doneness for air fryer filet mignon?
For filet mignon, the consensus among chefs and steak connoisseurs is that Medium-Rare to Medium doneness best showcases its delicate flavor and luxurious tenderness. At these levels, the steak remains juicy and succulent, with a warm, pink to slightly pink center. Cooking it beyond medium can cause this lean cut to become dry and lose its signature tenderness. Always use a meat thermometer for precision!
What else can I use to season the steak?
While we love keeping it simple with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper, and then topping with a rich blue cheese butter, there are many ways to enhance your filet’s flavor. For an added kick, consider a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of garlic salt, garlic powder, or freshly pressed garlic cloves. A high-quality steak seasoning blend or a mix of fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary can also elevate your steak significantly. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices!
Can I wrap my filets with bacon?
Absolutely! Bacon-wrapped filet mignon is a classic for a reason. The bacon adds a smoky flavor, extra fat for juiciness, and a delightful crisp texture. Simply wrap one or two slices of high-quality bacon around the circumference of each filet and secure it with a toothpick before air frying. The bacon will crisp up beautifully while the steak cooks, adding another layer of deliciousness. You may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time to ensure the bacon is rendered and crispy.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer for steak?
Yes, preheating your air fryer for at least 3-5 minutes is highly recommended, especially when cooking steak. Just like preheating a pan or grill, it helps the air fryer reach the optimal temperature quickly, ensuring that the steak hits a hot surface as soon as it enters. This results in a better, more immediate sear on the exterior, creating that desirable crust that locks in juices and enhances flavor.
Can I cook more than one steak at a time?
You can cook multiple steaks simultaneously, but it’s crucial to ensure they are placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Overcrowding can reduce air circulation, leading to uneven cooking and a less crispy exterior. If you have a smaller air fryer or are cooking several steaks, it’s better to cook them in batches to maintain optimal results.
How do I ensure a good crust on my air fryer filet?
Several factors contribute to a fantastic crust:
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