How to BBQ Filet Mignon on a Gas Grill?
Grilling filet mignon on a gas grill involves using a combination of high heat searing and indirect heat cooking to achieve a perfectly tender and flavorful result. This method allows you to obtain a beautiful crust while ensuring the inside reaches your desired doneness.
Introduction: Filet Mignon and the Gas Grill
Filet mignon, renowned for its tenderness and delicate flavor, often conjures images of upscale steakhouses. However, achieving restaurant-quality results at home is entirely possible with a gas grill. While charcoal grilling imparts a unique smoky flavor, gas grills offer convenience, precise temperature control, and consistent cooking, making them ideal for achieving a perfect sear and even cooking. This guide will demystify the process, providing you with the knowledge and techniques to consistently grill succulent filet mignon.
Why Choose a Gas Grill for Filet Mignon?
Gas grills present several advantages when cooking filet mignon:
- Precise Temperature Control: Consistent heat is crucial for achieving the perfect sear and internal temperature.
- Convenience: Quick preheating and easy cleanup make gas grills a user-friendly option.
- Even Heat Distribution: Many gas grills offer even heat distribution, reducing the risk of hot spots.
- Ease of Use: Mastering a gas grill is generally simpler than mastering a charcoal grill, particularly for beginners.
Selecting the Right Filet Mignon
The quality of your filet mignon directly impacts the final result. Consider the following:
- Grade: Look for USDA Prime or Choice. Prime offers the most marbling, leading to richer flavor and tenderness.
- Thickness: Opt for steaks that are at least 1.5 inches thick. Thicker steaks are easier to cook to your desired doneness without overcooking the outside.
- Marbling: Intramuscular fat (marbling) is key to flavor and tenderness. Abundant marbling ensures a juicy and flavorful steak.
- Freshness: Choose steaks that are vibrant red in color and have a fresh, clean scent.
Preparing Your Gas Grill for Filet Mignon
Proper grill preparation is essential for successful grilling. Follow these steps:
- Clean the Grates: A clean grilling surface prevents sticking and ensures proper searing. Use a wire brush to scrub the grates thoroughly.
- Oil the Grates: Lightly oiling the grates helps prevent the filet mignon from sticking. Use a high-smoke-point oil like canola or avocado oil.
- Two-Zone Heating: This is critical. Set up your grill for two-zone cooking. This means heating one side of the grill to high heat for searing and leaving the other side unlit for indirect cooking.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat the hot side of the grill to at least 450°F (232°C).
The Filet Mignon Grilling Process: Step-by-Step
Follow these steps to grill your filet mignon to perfection:
- Prepare the Filet: Pat the filet mignon dry with paper towels. This helps create a better sear. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Consider adding other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite steak rub.
- Sear the Filet: Place the filet mignon on the hot side of the grill and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a deep brown crust forms.
- Move to Indirect Heat: Transfer the filet mignon to the cool, unlit side of the grill.
- Cook to Desired Doneness: Close the grill lid and cook until the filet mignon reaches your desired internal temperature, using a reliable meat thermometer. Refer to the table below for temperature guidelines.
- Rest the Filet: Remove the filet mignon from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
Internal Temperature Guide for Filet Mignon
| Doneness | Internal Temperature | Feel (Touch Test) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 125-130°F (52-54°C) | Very Soft |
| Medium-Rare | 130-140°F (54-60°C) | Soft |
| Medium | 140-150°F (60-66°C) | Slightly Firm |
| Medium-Well | 150-160°F (66-71°C) | Firm |
| Well Done | 160°F+ (71°C+) | Very Firm |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: The most common mistake is overcooking filet mignon. Use a meat thermometer and err on the side of undercooking, as the steak will continue to cook slightly while resting.
- Insufficient Searing: Failing to achieve a good sear results in a less flavorful and less appealing steak. Ensure the grill is hot enough and that you leave the steak undisturbed for the appropriate amount of time.
- Skipping the Resting Period: Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling allows the juices to escape, resulting in a drier steak.
- Not Using a Meat Thermometer: Relying solely on visual cues or touch is unreliable. A meat thermometer is essential for achieving consistent results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best temperature to cook filet mignon on a gas grill?
The best temperature depends on your desired doneness. However, generally searing should be done over high heat (450°F or 232°C and above) and then moved to a lower temperature indirect zone of about 275-300°F (135-150°C) for finishing.
Should I use a marinade for filet mignon?
While filet mignon is delicious on its own, a marinade can add flavor and tenderize the steak. However, avoid overly acidic marinades, as they can break down the delicate proteins and make the steak mushy.
Can I use wood chips or a smoker box on my gas grill to add smoky flavor?
Yes, you can! Soak wood chips for at least 30 minutes before placing them in a smoker box or foil pouch on the hot side of the grill. This adds a smoky element to your filet mignon.
How do I know when my gas grill is hot enough for searing?
Use a grill thermometer or test the heat by holding your hand a few inches above the grates. You should only be able to hold your hand there for 1-2 seconds.
Is it necessary to let the filet mignon come to room temperature before grilling?
Yes, letting the filet mignon sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling helps it cook more evenly. However, do not leave it out for longer than 2 hours for food safety reasons.
Should I close the lid while grilling filet mignon on a gas grill?
Yes, closing the lid helps to maintain a consistent temperature and cook the filet mignon more evenly, especially when using indirect heat.
How long should I rest filet mignon after grilling?
Resting the filet mignon for 5-10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled filet mignon?
Popular side dishes include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, asparagus, grilled corn, and salads.
Can I cook frozen filet mignon on a gas grill?
It is not recommended to cook frozen filet mignon directly on the grill. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator before grilling for best results.
How do I prevent flare-ups on my gas grill while cooking filet mignon?
Trim excess fat from the filet mignon before grilling. Also, clean your grill regularly to remove grease buildup. Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to quickly extinguish any flare-ups.
What is the “touch test” for determining doneness?
The touch test involves pressing your finger into the center of the steak. Rare will feel very soft, medium-rare will feel soft, medium will feel slightly firm, medium-well will feel firm, and well-done will feel very firm. Refer to the table above for a more precise method using a meat thermometer.
Can I use a cast iron skillet on my gas grill to sear the filet mignon?
Yes! A cast iron skillet is an excellent way to achieve a perfect sear on your gas grill. Preheat the skillet on the grill before adding the filet mignon. This method helps create a crispy, flavorful crust.