Cooking a perfect filet mignon can seem like a daunting task, but the air fryer makes it incredibly easy! Imagine a tender, juicy steak with a caramelized crust and a rich, flavorful interior, all prepared with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will help you achieve a steakhouse-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.
The air fryer is a game-changer when it comes to cooking filet mignon. With its ability to evenly distribute heat, it ensures that your steak is cooked perfectly every time. No more worrying about unevenly cooked meat or the mess of a grill. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy steak ready in minutes.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Filet Mignon: This is the star of the dish. A tender cut of beef known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture, filet mignon is perfect for the air fryer because it cooks quickly and evenly, retaining its juiciness.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to coat the steak and creates a beautiful sear. It also adds a hint of richness to the flavor. You can use other oils, but olive oil is the best choice for its taste and health benefits.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the flavor of the steak without overpowering it. It’s the perfect complement to the natural taste of the filet mignon.
Salt: A good quality salt is essential for seasoning. It brings out the natural flavors of the beef, ensuring that your steak isn’t bland.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds just the right amount of heat and sharpness to balance the richness of the steak.
Butter: Adding a pat of butter on top of the cooked steak creates an extra layer of indulgence. It adds flavor and helps to keep the filet mignon moist.
Ingredients List
- 2 Filet Mignon steaks (6-8 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Butter
How to Make Air Fryer Filet Mignon
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the air fryer is hot enough to sear the filet mignon, creating that delicious crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak
Pat the filet mignon dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Rub both sides of the steak with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Make sure the steak is evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 3: Cook the Filet Mignon
Place the filet mignon in the air fryer basket, making sure there’s enough space for air to circulate around each steak. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). Adjust the time for your preferred level of doneness.
Step 4: Rest the Steak
Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak even more tender.
Step 5: Add Butter
Top each filet mignon with a pat of butter while it rests. The butter will melt, adding a creamy finish to the steak.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t skip the resting step: Resting the steak after cooking is crucial for ensuring that the juices stay inside, keeping the steak juicy and tender.
- Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature for perfect results. 120°F (49°C) for rare, 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, and 140°F (60°C) for medium.
- Use high-quality steaks: The better the steak, the better the result. Choose fresh, well-marbled filet mignon for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.
- Air fryer variations: Different air fryers cook at slightly different rates. Keep an eye on the steak the first time you make it and adjust cooking time as needed.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
A: While filet mignon is the most tender cut, you can use other steaks like ribeye or New York strip. Just note that they may require a slightly different cooking time.
Q: How can I ensure my steak is cooked to the right level of doneness?
A: The best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130°F (54°C).
Q: Can I add more flavors to the butter?
A: Absolutely! You can mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a little garlic, to make the butter extra flavorful.
Q: Can I cook more than two steaks at once in the air fryer?
A: Yes, but make sure the steaks are not overcrowded in the basket. Air needs to circulate around the steaks to cook them evenly. You may need to cook them in batches if you’re making more.