How To Cook Filet Mignon In Air Fryer [FULL GUIDE]

Recommended Equipments:

Filet mignon, often revered as the pinnacle of tender, flavorful beef, is a cut that demands precision and care in preparation. Known for its buttery texture and mild, succulent flavor, it is a steak that transforms a simple meal into an extraordinary dining experience. Traditionally pan-seared or oven-roasted, filet mignon can also be prepared perfectly in an air fryer-a kitchen marvel that promises even cooking, reduced fat usage, and consistent results. Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is an art that balances temperature, timing, and technique to ensure the steak remains juicy, tender, and richly flavored.

Optimal Air Fryer Temperature To Cook Filet Mignon In Air Fryer

The temperature at which you cook filet mignon in an air fryer is crucial. Too high, and the exterior may char before the interior reaches the desired doneness; too low, and the steak may dry out or cook unevenly. The optimal temperature for most air fryers is 400°F (204°C). This temperature allows the steak to sear beautifully on the outside, developing a golden-brown crust, while gently cooking the interior to a perfect medium-rare or medium finish.

Some chefs recommend preheating the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to ensure an even sear. Preheating ensures that the air fryer’s circulating hot air immediately begins cooking the steak, reducing the risk of uneven temperature zones that could compromise texture or flavor.

How Long To Cook Filet Mignon In Air Fryer

The cooking time depends on the thickness of the filet and the desired doneness. For a standard 1.5-2 inch thick filet mignon cooked at 400°F:

• Rare (120-125°F internal temperature): 8-10 minutes
• Medium-Rare (130-135°F internal temperature): 10-12 minutes
• Medium (140-145°F internal temperature): 12-14 minutes
• Medium-Well (150-155°F internal temperature): 14-16 minutes

Cooking times may vary slightly depending on air fryer models and the thickness of the steak, so it is essential to monitor closely for accuracy. Turning the steak halfway through cooking ensures even browning and heat distribution.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Determining the doneness of filet mignon requires precision. While timing guides are helpful, the most accurate method is using an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak. The internal temperatures to aim for are:

• Rare: 120-125°F
• Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
• Medium: 140-145°F
• Medium-Well: 150-155°F
• Well-Done: 160°F+

For those without a thermometer, the touch test can be used: gently press the steak with your fingertip. A rare steak feels soft and yields easily, medium feels springy with slight resistance, and well-done feels firm.

Ingredients Needed

For a classic air fryer filet mignon, you need minimal but high-quality ingredients to highlight the steak’s natural flavor:

• 2 filet mignon steaks, 1.5-2 inches thick
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• Kosher salt or sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: garlic powder, fresh rosemary, or thyme for added aroma

These ingredients enhance the flavor without overpowering the delicate taste of the filet.

How To Cook Filet Mignon In Air Fryer

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Steaks: Pat the filet mignons dry with paper towels. Rub them with olive oil or butter, then season generously with salt, pepper, and optional herbs or garlic powder.
3. Air Fry: Place the steaks in the basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through.
4. Check Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to verify the internal temperature.
5. Rest the Steak: Remove the filet from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender, juicy result.

What If I Use A Different Air Fryer Temperature?

Adjusting the temperature will affect both the cooking time and the texture of the steak:

• Higher Temperature (425-450°F): The exterior browns faster, creating a more pronounced crust but increases the risk of overcooking the interior if not monitored closely.
• Lower Temperature (350-375°F): Results in more even cooking throughout but may lack a crisp seared crust, and cooking times will be longer.

Balancing temperature and timing is key; err on the side of slightly lower temperature if you’re cautious about overcooking.

What If I Use A Different Air Fryer Cooking Time?

Cooking longer than recommended can dry out the steak, while shorter times may leave it undercooked:

• Shorter Time: The steak may be underdone, especially in the center. Use a thermometer to ensure internal doneness.
• Longer Time: The filet may become dry and lose its buttery texture, even if it develops a nice crust.

Always consider the thickness of the steak and your preferred doneness, then adjust the time in small increments of 1-2 minutes.

When Things Go Wrong

Mistakes happen, but they can often be corrected:

• Overcooked Steak: Let it rest with a small pat of butter on top. Slice thinly to retain moisture.
• Undercooked Steak: Return to the air fryer for a few more minutes, but monitor closely to avoid overshooting.
• Uneven Cooking: Ensure steaks are evenly thick and spaced apart in the basket. Rotate halfway through cooking.

Even with small errors, proper resting and slicing techniques can salvage the experience.

Expert Tips

1. Room Temperature Steaks: Bring filet mignon to room temperature for 20-30 minutes before cooking for even heat distribution.
2. Pat Dry Before Seasoning: Moisture on the surface prevents proper searing.
3. Use a Thermometer: Precision ensures perfect doneness every time.
4. Don’t Overcrowd: Air needs to circulate for proper cooking; cook in batches if needed.
5. Rest is Crucial: Never skip resting-this step makes the difference between a juicy steak and a dry one.

FAQs

What Is The Best Way To Prepare Filet Mignon For The Air Fryer?

Before air frying, season the filet mignon with salt, pepper, and optional herbs or spices. Allow the meat to reach room temperature for 20-30 minutes to ensure even cooking. Lightly brush or spray the steak with oil to promote browning.

What Temperature Should I Set My Air Fryer For Filet Mignon?

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for most air fryer models. This temperature allows the exterior to sear quickly while keeping the interior tender and juicy.

How Long Should I Cook Filet Mignon In The Air Fryer?

Cooking time depends on steak thickness and desired doneness. For a 1.5-inch thick filet: rare takes 8-10 minutes, medium-rare 10-12 minutes, medium 12-14 minutes, and medium-well 14-16 minutes. Flip halfway through cooking for even results.

Do I Need To Flip The Filet Mignon While Air Frying?

Yes, flipping the steak halfway through the cooking process ensures even browning and consistent doneness on both sides.

How Can I Check If My Filet Mignon Is Cooked To The Right Doneness?

Use a meat thermometer: rare (120-125°F / 49-52°C), medium-rare (130-135°F / 54-57°C), medium (140-145°F / 60-63°C), medium-well (150-155°F / 66-68°C). Alternatively, use the finger test method to gauge firmness.

Should I Let The Filet Mignon Rest After Air Frying?

Yes, rest the steak for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

Can I Cook Frozen Filet Mignon In The Air Fryer?

Yes, but it requires longer cooking times and may not brown as evenly. For best results, thaw the steak before air frying and follow the standard seasoning and temperature guidelines.