Mastering the Perfect Cook Time: Air Fryer Filet Mignon in Just Minutes!

Have you ever been craving a mouthwatering, juicy filet mignon but didn’t want to go through the hassle of firing up the grill or preheating the oven? Well, have no fear because the air fryer is here to save the day! With its rapid cooking time and ability to lock in flavor, the air fryer has become a popular tool for preparing all sorts of dishes. But when it comes to filet mignon – one of the most luxurious and delicate cuts of beef – many chefs are unsure of how long it takes in an air fryer. In this article, we’ll explore how long it takes to cook filet mignon in an air fryer so you can achieve that perfect, restaurant-quality steak at home. Get ready to satisfy your cravings and elevate your cooking game with this simple yet indulgent dish.

The Basics of Cooking Filet Mignon in an Air Fryer

Filet mignon is a beloved cut of beef that is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Traditionally, this cut is seared and finished in the oven for the perfect medium-rare doneness. However, with the rise in popularity of air fryers, many people are now wondering if they can achieve the same delicious results with their air fryer. The good news is, yes you can! Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is not only possible but also produces a beautifully seared and evenly cooked steak. In this article, we will discuss the basics of cooking filet mignon in an air fryer to help you achieve the perfect steak every time.

What is an Air Fryer?

An air fryer is a small kitchen appliance that operates similarly to a convection oven. It uses hot air to circulate around food, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and tender. Unlike deep fryers that use oil to cook food, air fryers use little to no oil, making it a healthier alternative for frying food.

Prepping Filet Mignon for Air Frying

The first step to cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is preparing your steak for cooking. Start by taking the steak out of your fridge and letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the meat to cook more evenly.

Next, pat dry your steak with paper towels to remove any excess moisture on the surface. This will ensure that your steak develops a beautiful sear when placed in the hot air fryer basket.

If desired, you can season your filet mignon with salt and pepper or any other preferred seasoning blend at this point.

Cooking Filet Mignon in an Air Fryer

Now that your steak is prepped and ready, it’s time to start cooking. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes before adding the steak.

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned filet mignon in the basket, making sure to leave enough space around each steak for proper air circulation. You can also use a mesh basket or perforated parchment paper to prevent the steak from sticking to the basket.

Cook your filet mignon for 8-10 minutes for medium-rare doneness. If you prefer your steak more well-done, you can cook it for an additional 1-2 minutes.

While cooking, it’s important to flip the steak halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides. For thicker cuts of filet mignon, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Testing for Doneness

One of the common mistakes when cooking filet mignon is overcooking it. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak. For medium-rare doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F. For medium, aim for 140°F and for medium-well, aim for 150°F.

Once you have achieved your desired doneness, remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board or plate for at least 5 minutes before slicing into it. This resting period allows any juices that have been pushed towards the surface during cooking to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak.

Possible Variations

While simply seasoning with salt and pepper is delicious enough, there are many variations you can try when cooking filet mignon in an air fryer. One option is adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the steak before cooking for extra flavor. You can also make a compound butter by mixing softened butter with your desired herbs and spreading it on top of the steak after it’s done cooking.

Another option is marinating your filet mignon for a few hours before air frying. This will not only infuse more flavor into the meat but also help tenderize it.

Tips for Perfect Filet Mignon in an Air Fryer

– Make sure to preheat your air fryer before adding the steak for even cooking.
– Always season your steak generously with salt and pepper or desired seasonings.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
– Let the steak rest before slicing into it.
– Experiment with different herbs, marinades, and compound butters for added flavor.

Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this cut of meat. By following a few simple steps, you can achieve perfectly cooked steaks every time. Prepping the steak properly, using a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and experimenting with variations are key to getting the best results. So why not give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality

What is Filet Mignon?

Filet mignon is a delicious and tender cut of beef that is taken from the tenderloin area of the cow. It is often considered the most tender and flavorful cut of beef and is a popular choice for fine dining restaurants. The name itself comes from the French term, “filet mignon,” which translates to “dainty fillet” in English.

This particular cut of meat is very lean with little to no fat marbling, resulting in a buttery smooth texture and delicate flavor. It’s typically smaller in size compared to other cuts of steak, making it perfect for individual portions or sharing as a romantic meal for two.

Given its premium quality, filet mignon tends to be more expensive than other cuts of beef. However, with the right cooking method, such as using an air fryer, you can easily achieve restaurant-quality filet mignon at home without breaking the bank.

The Benefits of Cooking Filet Mignon in an Air Fryer

Air fryers have gained immense popularity in recent years as a healthier alternative to deep-frying foods. They use hot air circulation to cook food evenly without the need for excessive oil or fats. When it comes to cooking filet mignon, using an air fryer has numerous benefits:

1. Faster Cooking Time: Filet mignon cooks much faster in an air fryer compared to traditional cooking methods such as grilling or pan-searing. This is due to the intense heat generated by the air fryer, resulting in perfectly cooked filet mignon in less than 15 minutes.

2. Less Mess: One major advantage of cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is that it eliminates the need for pots and pans, reducing the amount of clean-up after cooking. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want a quick and easy dinner option.

3. Healthier Option: As mentioned earlier, air fryers use less oil compared to deep-frying, making it a healthier choice for cooking filet mignon. It also allows the excess fat from the meat to drip-off, resulting in a leaner and less greasy steak.

4. Evenly Cooked Steak: Air fryers use hot air circulated around the food, ensuring even cooking from all sides. This results in perfectly cooked filet mignon with a consistent texture and flavor.

How Long to Cook Filet Mignon in an Air Fryer?

The recommended cooking time for filet mignon in an air fryer is 12-14 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your steak and personal preference for doneness.

For a rare steak, reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes, and if you prefer a well-done steak, add an extra minute or two to the cooking time. It’s essential to keep an eye on your filet mignon while it’s cooking to avoid overcooking.

Another tip is to preheat your air fryer before adding the filet mignon. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly and prevent any cold spots in the meat.

Steps for Cooking Filet Mignon in an Air Fryer

Now that we know how long it takes to cook filet mignon in an air fryer let’s go through step-by-step instructions on how to achieve perfectly cooked steaks every time:

Step 1: Preheat your air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: While your air fryer is preheating, season your filet mignon with salt and pepper or your desired seasoning.

Step 3: Once your air fryer is preheated, place the filet mignon in the basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other.

Step 4: Depending on the thickness of your steak, cook for 12-14 minutes, flipping the steak halfway through the cooking time.

Step 5: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your steak. Rare is around 120-125 degrees Fahrenheit, medium-rare is around 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit, and medium is around 140-145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 6: Let the filet mignon rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Ways to Enhance Filet Mignon in an Air Fryer

While filet mignon on its own is delicious, there are several ways to enhance its flavor when cooking it in an air fryer. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Add some butter or herbs on top of your steak before placing it in the air fryer for added flavor.

2. Wrap bacon around your filet mignon before air frying for an extra touch of smokiness and saltiness.

3. Marinate your steak overnight for more flavor infusion into the meat. You can use either

Q: How long should I cook filet mignon in an air fryer?
A: Filet mignon typically takes about 12-15 minutes in an air fryer, depending on the size and thickness of the steak.

Q: Do I need to preheat my air fryer before cooking filet mignon?
A: Yes, it is recommended to preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding the filet mignon. This helps to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.

Q: Can I cook frozen filet mignon in an air fryer?
A: It is not recommended to cook frozen filet mignon in an air fryer as it may result in uneven cooking. Thaw the steak before cooking for best results.

Q: How can I tell if my filet mignon is cooked to perfection?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 135°F (57°C). For medium, aim for 140°F (60°C).

Q: Can I marinate filet mignon before cooking it in an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can marinate filet mignon before cooking it in an air fryer. However, make sure to pat dry the steak with paper towels before adding it to the air fryer.

Q: How do I achieve a perfect crust on my filet mignon when using an air fryer?
A: To achieve a crispy crust on your filet mignon, lightly brush or spray the steak with oil before placing it in the air fryer. You can also add a sprinkle of salt and pepper for extra flavor.

In conclusion, cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy a delicious and tender steak. It allows for precise temperature control and evenly distributed heat, resulting in a perfectly cooked piece of meat. The recommended cooking time for filet mignon in an air fryer is between 8-12 minutes at 400°F, depending on the desired level of doneness. It is important to properly prepare the steak by seasoning it and letting it come to room temperature before cooking. This will help to enhance the flavor and ensure even cooking. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can ensure that the steak is cooked to the desired internal temperature. In summary, cooking filet mignon in an air fryer can result in a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. By following these guidelines and incorporating personal preferences, anyone can achieve a perfectly cooked filet mignon in their own home with an air fryer.