How to Cook a Filet Mignon in the Air Fryer?
Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is a surprisingly simple and effective way to achieve a perfectly seared exterior and a tender, juicy interior in a fraction of the time. Follow these steps for restaurant-quality results at home.
Why Air Fry Filet Mignon? The Benefits
Air frying has revolutionized home cooking, offering a faster, healthier, and more convenient alternative to traditional methods. For filet mignon, this translates to several key advantages:
- Speed: Air frying significantly reduces cooking time compared to oven baking or pan-searing.
- Even Cooking: The circulating hot air ensures uniform cooking and prevents hot spots.
- Ease of Use: Air fryers are incredibly user-friendly and require minimal preheating.
- Less Fat: Because the filet mignon cooks in its own juices (and any added oil is minimal), the air fryer can help reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
- Minimal Cleanup: Most air fryer baskets are non-stick and easy to clean.
Preparing Your Filet Mignon
The foundation of a great filet mignon lies in proper preparation. This ensures optimal flavor and texture.
- Choosing the Right Cut: Opt for filet mignon that is at least 1.5 inches thick for the best results. Look for even marbling and a bright red color.
- Bringing to Room Temperature: Allow the filet mignon to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows for more even cooking and prevents the meat from seizing up when it hits the heat.
- Seasoning Liberally: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! A generous coating of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper is essential. Consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite steak seasoning blend.
- Optional: Adding Fat: For an extra layer of flavor and richness, consider wrapping the filet mignon in bacon or drizzling it with olive oil or melted butter before cooking.
The Air Frying Process: Step-by-Step
This straightforward method guarantees a delicious filet mignon every time.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a quick sear and even cooking.
- Prepare the Filet Mignon: Pat the filet mignon dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a good sear. Season generously with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings.
- Optional: Add Fat: If using, wrap the filet mignon with bacon or drizzle with olive oil or melted butter.
- Place in Air Fryer Basket: Place the filet mignon in the air fryer basket, ensuring it’s not overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook to Desired Doneness: Cook for the recommended time based on your desired doneness (see chart below).
- Rest the Meat: Remove the filet mignon from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Air Fryer Filet Mignon Cooking Times
Use this chart as a guide, but always use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of the filet mignon.
| Doneness | Internal Temperature | Approximate Cooking Time (minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 125°F (52°C) | 6-8 |
| Medium-Rare | 135°F (57°C) | 8-10 |
| Medium | 145°F (63°C) | 10-12 |
| Medium-Well | 155°F (68°C) | 12-14 |
| Well-Done | 160°F (71°C) | 14-16 |
Avoiding Common Mistakes
While air frying filet mignon is relatively simple, avoiding these common pitfalls will ensure the best possible results.
- Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket: Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation and leads to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Not Using a Meat Thermometer: Relying solely on cooking time is a recipe for disaster. A meat thermometer is essential for achieving your desired doneness.
- Skipping the Resting Period: Resting the meat allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Don’t skip this crucial step!
- Using Under-Seasoned Meat: Filet mignon needs ample seasoning to bring out its natural flavors. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the salt and pepper.
- Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer ensures a quick sear and even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Filet mignon is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides.
- Classic Sides: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots), and creamed spinach are classic accompaniments.
- Sauces: Enhance the flavor with a pan sauce, béarnaise sauce, or chimichurri sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the richness of the filet mignon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen filet mignon in the air fryer?
While it’s best to use thawed filet mignon, you can cook it from frozen. However, you’ll need to add approximately 50% more cooking time and ensure the internal temperature reaches the desired level. Thawing ensures more even cooking and better flavor.
Do I need to flip the filet mignon halfway through cooking?
Flipping is generally not necessary in an air fryer due to the circulating hot air. However, if you notice uneven browning, you can flip the filet mignon halfway through cooking to ensure both sides are evenly seared.
What is the best temperature for air frying filet mignon?
The ideal temperature for air frying filet mignon is 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures a quick sear and even cooking.
How can I tell if my filet mignon is done without a thermometer?
While a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to gauge doneness, you can use the touch test. Gently press the center of the filet mignon. If it feels very soft, it’s rare. If it feels slightly firmer, it’s medium-rare. And if it feels firm, it’s well-done. However, the touch test is not as reliable as a thermometer.
Can I add marinade to the filet mignon before air frying?
Yes, you can marinate the filet mignon for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. Just be sure to pat it dry before placing it in the air fryer to ensure a good sear.
My air fryer is smoking. What should I do?
Smoking can occur if there’s excessive fat in the air fryer basket. Try adding a small amount of water to the bottom of the basket or using a liner to catch the drippings. Also, make sure your air fryer is clean.
How do I store leftover air-fried filet mignon?
Store leftover air-fried filet mignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I reheat filet mignon in the air fryer?
Yes, you can reheat filet mignon in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook it and dry it out.
Will the filet mignon dry out in the air fryer?
If cooked properly, filet mignon should not dry out in the air fryer. Bringing the meat to room temperature, searing it quickly, and not overcooking are key factors.
What size air fryer do I need to cook filet mignon?
A standard air fryer with a capacity of 4-5 quarts should be sufficient for cooking 2-4 filet mignon steaks.
Can I use cooking spray in my air fryer?
It’s generally recommended to avoid using aerosol cooking sprays in your air fryer, as they can damage the non-stick coating. Instead, use an oil sprayer or brush olive oil directly onto the food.
What are some variations on air fryer filet mignon?
Experiment with different seasonings, marinades, or toppings. Try adding a garlic herb butter during the last few minutes of cooking, or topping the filet mignon with crumbled blue cheese after cooking. The possibilities are endless!