Name: Air-Fryer Filet Mignon
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 2 steaks filet mignon ((6 to 8 ounces each)); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter ((softened)); to taste Fresh rosemary ((for garnish))

If you’ve ever dreamed of enjoying a perfectly cooked filet mignon without the fuss of traditional grilling or pan-searing, your dream is about to come true. The air fryer is a game-changer, offering a quick and easy way to achieve that tender, juicy steak with a beautiful crust. This Air-Fryer Filet Mignon recipe is not only simple but also results in a restaurant-quality dinner right in your own kitchen. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be savoring a delicious filet mignon in no time.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the air fryer cooks the steak evenly while sealing in moisture, creating a deliciously tender center with a caramelized exterior. Second, it requires just a few basic ingredients, allowing the natural flavors of the filet mignon to shine through. Finally, the convenience of the air fryer means you can prepare gourmet meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a special occasion or a weeknight treat, this Air-Fryer Filet Mignon is sure to impress.

The Ingredient Lineup

To whip up your Air-Fryer Filet Mignon, gather the following ingredients:

2 filet mignon steaks (6 to 8 ounces each) – Choose the freshest cuts for the best flavor and tenderness.
1 tablespoon olive oil – This adds richness and helps create a lovely crust.
1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the steak.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of spice.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened) – For basting the steak and adding richness.
Fresh rosemary – Perfect for garnish and imparts a fragrant touch.

Recommended Tools

Before you start cooking, it’s good to have the right tools on hand:

Air fryer – The star of the show, ensuring even cooking.
Meat thermometer – For precise cooking and perfect doneness.
Tongs – To easily flip and handle the steaks.
Small bowl – For mixing the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Brush – For basting the steaks with butter.

From Start to Finish: Air-Fryer Filet Mignon

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps for a flawless Air-Fryer Filet Mignon.

Step 1: Preparing the Steaks

Start by taking your filet mignon steaks out of the refrigerator. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly.

Step 2: Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the steaks. This simple seasoning enhances the flavor without overpowering the meat.

Step 3: Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting that perfect sear on your steak.

Step 4: Cooking the Steaks

Once preheated, place the seasoned filet mignon steaks in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation. Cook the steaks for about 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping them halfway through. Adjust the cooking time according to your preferred doneness.

Step 5: Adding Butter

In the last 2 minutes of cooking, open the air fryer and carefully brush the softened unsalted butter over the top of each steak. This will add a rich flavor and help create a beautiful crust.

Step 6: Resting the Steaks

Once cooked to your liking, remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy steak.

Step 7: Garnishing and Serving

Finally, garnish your Air-Fryer Filet Mignon with fresh rosemary. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy the restaurant-quality experience right at home.

Fit It to Your Goals

This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to fit various dietary goals:

Low-Carb/Keto: Enjoy as is! Pair with low-carb vegetables for a complete meal.
Paleo: Use grass-fed beef and serve with roasted veggies or a fresh salad.
Protein-Packed: Pair with quinoa or lentils for an extra protein boost.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; enjoy without any modifications.

What Could Go Wrong

Even though this recipe is straightforward, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Overcooking: Keep an eye on the steaks to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
Undercooking: Ensure you let the steaks reach your desired doneness. A medium-rare steak should register around 130°F (54°C).
Insufficient seasoning: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper; it’s essential for flavor.
Air fryer size: If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook one steak at a time.

Save It for Later

If you have leftovers or want to prepare ahead, here are some tips:

Store any leftover Air-Fryer Filet Mignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at a low temperature, or enjoy cold in salads or sandwiches. However, keep in mind that the texture may change after reheating.

Common Qs About Air-Fryer Filet Mignon

Can I cook filet mignon from frozen in the air fryer?

While it’s best to cook filet mignon from fresh, if you must cook it from frozen, increase the cooking time by about 5-8 minutes and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

What temperature should filet mignon be cooked to?

The ideal temperatures for filet mignon are 120°F (49°C) for rare, 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (66°C) for medium-well. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Do I need to marinate the filet mignon?

No marination is necessary for this recipe, as the seasoning of olive oil, salt, and pepper enhances the natural flavors of the steak. However, feel free to marinate if you prefer!

Can I use other cuts of steak in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Other cuts like ribeye or sirloin can be cooked in the air fryer as well, but cooking times may vary. Check doneness with a thermometer.

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If you enjoyed this Air-Fryer Filet Mignon, you’ll love these other delicious recipes:

Bring It Home

Now that you’ve mastered the art of cooking Air-Fryer Filet Mignon, you can easily impress family and friends with your culinary skills. This recipe not only saves time but also elevates your dining experience without the need for complicated techniques.

Whether it’s for a cozy dinner for two or a special gathering, this air-fryer steak is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So fire up that air fryer, and get ready to savor a deliciously tender filet mignon that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. Enjoy every bite!