I’ll be honest—filet mignon always felt like something I had to order at a fancy steakhouse, not something I could nail in my own kitchen. But once I discovered how magical the air fryer can be for steaks, my whole perspective changed. Now, that restaurant-quality filet mignon with the perfect sear and juicy center is absolutely doable at home, and with far less stress.
What I love most about cooking filet mignon this way is how consistent the results are. No smoke filling the kitchen, no worrying about getting the pan scorching hot, just a simple and reliable method that turns out tender, buttery steaks every single time. Pair it with a glass of red wine or some garlic mashed potatoes, and suddenly, dinner feels extra special without a ton of effort.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Filet Mignon Steaks: The star of the dish, filet mignon is known for its tenderness and buttery texture. It’s lean compared to other cuts, but when cooked properly, it stays incredibly juicy. Choose steaks that are at least 1 ½ inches thick for the best results in the air fryer.
Olive Oil: A light coat of olive oil helps the seasoning stick to the steaks and ensures a nice crust forms on the outside while keeping the meat moist. It also adds a subtle richness without overpowering the natural beef flavor.
Kosher Salt: Filet mignon doesn’t need much dressing up, but salt is essential. Kosher salt brings out the natural savory depth of the beef and helps form that irresistible crust when cooked.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper provides just the right amount of warmth and spice to balance the buttery flavor of the filet. The coarse grind works best, giving little pops of flavor in every bite.
Garlic Powder: A pinch of garlic powder enhances the flavor without overwhelming the steak. It gives a gentle, savory note that pairs beautifully with beef.
Butter: A pat of butter melted on top at the end adds richness and makes the filet taste luxurious. It’s the final touch that makes it feel like steakhouse quality.
Fresh Herbs (optional): Sprigs of rosemary or thyme can be placed on top of the steak as it cooks or melted with the butter afterward. They lend an aromatic note that takes the flavor up a notch.
Ingredients List
- 2 filet mignon steaks (about 1 ½ inches thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Filet Mignon
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
Pat the filet mignon dry with paper towels. This step is key to helping the oil and seasonings stick while also ensuring a beautiful sear.
Step 2: Season Generously
Rub the steaks with olive oil on all sides, then sprinkle with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. A hot air fryer guarantees a nice crust on the outside of the steaks.
Step 4: Cook the Filet Mignon
Place the steaks in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them so the hot air circulates. Cook for 9–11 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through. Adjust the cooking time depending on your preferred doneness.
Step 5: Rest the Steaks
Remove the filet mignon from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender and flavorful.
Step 6: Finish with Butter and Herbs
Top each steak with a pat of butter and a sprig of rosemary or thyme. The heat from the steak will melt the butter into a glossy, flavorful finish.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Always let your steaks come to room temperature before cooking for more even results.
- Don’t skip the resting step—it’s crucial for juicy filet mignon.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; air circulation is what gives you that perfect crust.
- If you like extra flavor, make a quick garlic-herb butter ahead of time and spoon it over the hot steaks.
FAQs
Can I cook frozen filet mignon in the air fryer?
Yes, you can, but the texture won’t be quite the same. It’s best to thaw the steaks overnight for the juiciest results.
What sides go well with air fryer filet mignon?
Classic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad all make excellent pairings.
Do I need to marinate filet mignon?
Not at all—this cut is naturally tender and flavorful. Simple seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder is more than enough.
How do I know when the filet mignon is done?
The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. Pull the steaks out at your preferred temperature, then let them rest so they finish cooking gently.