If you’re looking to make a delicious filet mignon using an air fryer, you’ve come to the right place! This foolproof recipe guarantees perfectly cooked filet mignon every time. Whether you prefer your steak rare, medium, or well-done, the air fryer can deliver impeccable results. In this post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients needed, the step-by-step cooking process, the ideal air fryer temperatures and cooking times for different steak doneness, and the nutritional information for this gourmet dish. Get ready to add another fantastic recipe to your collection of air fryer foods.
Ⅰ.Ingredients Needed
- Filet Mignon Steaks: Choose high-quality, evenly cut filet mignon steaks. Look for steaks that are at least 1 inch thick for the best results. Thicker steaks help ensure a juicy, tender center while achieving a perfect sear on the outside.
- Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil helps to achieve a beautiful crust on the steak. Olive oil is a healthier option compared to other oils and adds a subtle flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances the natural flavors of the filet mignon. Use freshly ground black pepper and coarse sea salt for the best results.
- Garlic Powder (Optional): Adds a subtle garlicky flavor without overpowering the steak. Garlic powder blends well with the other seasonings and enhances the overall taste.
- Fresh Herbs (Optional): Rosemary or thyme can add an aromatic touch to your steak. Fresh herbs are a great way to elevate the flavor profile of your filet mignon.
- Butter (Optional): For basting the steak post-cooking to add extra richness. A small pat of butter melted over the steak can make a big difference in flavor and texture.
Ⅱ.Cooking Steps with an Air Fryer
1.Season the Steaks:
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Rub a light coating of olive oil on each steak, then generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder if desired. This step ensures the seasoning adheres well to the steaks and helps form a nice crust.
2.Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the steaks cook evenly and get a nice sear, crucial for achieving that restaurant-quality finish.
3.Cook the Steaks:
Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. This allows for proper air circulation and even cooking. Air fryer foods cook best when there is enough space for hot air to circulate around each piece.
4.Check for Doneness:
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks according to your preferred doneness. Refer to the next section for specific temperatures and times. This ensures your steaks are cooked exactly how you like them.
5.Rest the Steaks:
After cooking, let the steaks rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender steak. Resting is a crucial step that shouldn’t be skipped as it greatly affects the final texture and flavor.
Ⅲ.Air Fryer Temperatures and Cooking Times for Different Steak Doneness
1.Rare (120°F – 125°F)
- Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
- Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2.Medium Rare (130°F – 135°F)
- Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
- Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3.Medium (140°F – 145°F)
- Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4.Medium Well (150°F – 155°F)
- Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
- Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5.Well Done (160°F and above)
- Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
- Cooking Time: 14-16 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Ⅳ.Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 220 calories per 4 oz serving.
- Protein: Around 26 grams per serving.
- Fat: Approximately 12 grams per serving.
- Saturated Fat: About 5 grams per serving.
- Cholesterol: Around 80 mg per serving.
Ⅴ.Conclusion
Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is a game-changer, offering a quick, easy, and reliable method to achieve restaurant-quality steaks at home. This versatile kitchen appliance simplifies the cooking process while ensuring your filet mignon is cooked to perfection every time. Whether you’re a rare steak enthusiast or prefer your filet well-done, this air fryer recipe will meet your needs.
