Air Fryer Filet Mignon: Achieve Steakhouse Quality at Home in Minutes

Imagine a steak so tender it melts in your mouth, perfectly seasoned, and crowned with a luscious garlic butter. Now, imagine achieving that restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen, in under 20 minutes, using your air fryer! This guide will show you how to prepare an exquisite Air Fryer Filet Mignon that is consistently lean, juicy, and incredibly flavorful. Forget expensive steakhouses; your air fryer is about to become your new favorite tool for cooking premium steaks.

Filet mignon is often reserved for special occasions like date nights, but with the air fryer, it becomes an accessible luxury. Paired with a classic side like creamy mashed potatoes or fresh asparagus, it’s a meal that feels indulgent without the hefty price tag or the fuss of traditional cooking methods. This recipe transforms the perception of cooking premium cuts of beef at home, making it simple, quick, and incredibly rewarding.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Filet Mignon Recipe

There are countless reasons why this air fryer method for cooking filet mignon has become a go-to for many home cooks. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about achieving exceptional results with minimal effort:

• Effortlessly Delicious: The air fryer circulates hot air, creating a perfectly seared exterior and a tender, juicy interior, mimicking the results of a high-temperature oven or grill.
• Low Carb & Keto-Friendly: With minimal seasoning and a naturally lean cut of beef, this recipe is ideal for those following low-carb or keto diets, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious meal without compromising your dietary goals.
• Unforgettable Garlic Butter: The homemade garlic butter isn’t just a topping; it’s an essential flavor component. It infuses the warm steak with aromatic garlic and herbaceous chives, elevating every bite. All you need are basic ingredients like sea salt, black pepper, high-quality steaks, and a dollop of this incredible butter.
• Customizable Seasoning: While simple kosher salt and freshly crushed black pepper are often all that’s needed to highlight the natural flavor of filet mignon, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with your favorite steak seasonings, rubs, or even a dash of smoked paprika or onion powder to tailor it to your palate.
• Quick & Easy Cleanup: One of the biggest advantages of air frying is the minimal cleanup. No greasy splatters all over your stovetop or heavy pans to scrub.
• Consistent Results: The air fryer provides a controlled cooking environment, making it easier to achieve your desired level of doneness every single time, from rare to well-done.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Filet Mignon

Quality ingredients are the cornerstone of any great steak, especially when it comes to a premium cut like filet mignon. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component matters:

Beef Filet Mignon: This prized cut comes from the tenderloin, known for its exceptional tenderness and fine texture. It’s a very lean cut, which means it has less marbling (intramuscular fat) compared to other steaks. If you prefer a steak with more fat and a richer beefy flavor, consider a ribeye or a New York strip, but remember that cooking times will need to be adjusted accordingly due to differences in thickness and fat content. Always aim for steaks of uniform thickness for even cooking.

Fresh Garlic: This is non-negotiable for the garlic butter. Freshly minced garlic provides a pungent, aromatic flavor that garlic powder simply cannot replicate. Since filet mignon is a significant investment, treat it to the best quality ingredients. Store-bought minced garlic in a jar often contains preservatives and lacks the vibrant punch of fresh cloves. Take the extra minute to mince your own – it makes all the difference.

Unsalted Butter: Softened unsalted butter is crucial for the garlic butter. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. If you only have salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt in the garlic butter and on the steak. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature so it can be easily mixed with the garlic and chives.

Fresh Chives: These delicate, oniony herbs add a beautiful subtle flavor and a pop of color to the garlic butter. They complement the richness of the steak and butter without overpowering it. If fresh chives are unavailable, you can substitute with a small amount of finely chopped fresh parsley or even dried chives, though fresh is always preferred for aroma and texture.

Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the seasonings adhere to the steak and promotes a beautiful sear in the air fryer. You can also use avocado oil or any other high smoke point oil you prefer.

Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Simple, yet essential. Sea salt, like kosher salt, provides a clean, briny flavor and helps to create a crust on the steak. Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent kick. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; filet mignon can handle it.

Cooking Spray: A quick spray of the air fryer basket prevents the steak from sticking, ensuring easy removal and perfect browning.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Air Fryer Filet Mignon

Preparing this exquisite steak is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps to achieve perfection:

1. Prepare Your Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear and ensuring even cooking. While it’s preheating, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Steaks: Lightly brush both sides of your filet mignon steaks with olive oil. This helps the seasonings adhere and promotes a beautiful crust. Then, generously season the steaks with sea salt and freshly crushed black pepper on both sides. Don’t be afraid to be liberal; a good seasoning layer is key to flavor.
3. Air Fry the Steaks: Carefully place the seasoned steaks into the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook the steaks for 6 minutes. After 6 minutes, flip each steak to the other side and continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes for a perfect medium-rare doneness. (See the “How Long to Cook” section below for other doneness levels).
4. Prepare the Garlic Butter: While the steaks are cooking, prepare the decadent garlic butter. In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, finely minced fresh garlic, and fresh chives. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Season the butter with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
5. Rest and Serve: Once the steaks have reached your desired doneness, immediately remove them from the air fryer. Transfer them to a cutting board and allow them to rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting period is absolutely essential; it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a significantly more tender and succulent steak. Skipping this step can lead to dry steak. After resting, top each steak with a generous dollop of the homemade garlic butter. Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly cooked filet mignon!

Achieving Perfect Doneness: Air Fryer Steak Cooking Times

The beauty of cooking steak is being able to customize it to your preferred level of doneness. An instant-read meat thermometer is your best friend for precise results. Here’s a guide to air fryer cooking times and internal temperatures for a 1.5-inch thick filet mignon. Adjust times for thinner or thicker cuts:

• Rare (130°F / 54°C): Cook for 5-6 minutes total. The steak will be cool red in the center.
• Medium-Rare (135°F / 57°C): Our recommended doneness for filet mignon! Cook for 9-10 minutes total. The steak will have a warm red center and feel slight to the touch with slight resistance.
• Medium (145°F / 63°C): Cook for 11-12 minutes total. The center will be pink and firm to the touch.
• Medium-Well (150°F / 66°C): Cook for 13-14 minutes total. The steak will be slightly pink in the center and quite firm.
• Well Done (160°F / 71°C): Cook for approximately 15 minutes total, or until it reaches 160°F. The steak will be very firm with no pink in the center.

Remember that the internal temperature will rise by a few degrees (carry-over cooking) while the steak rests, so it’s often best to remove it just a few degrees shy of your target temperature.

No Air Fryer? No Problem! Pan-Sear & Oven Finish Method

While the air fryer offers unmatched convenience, you can absolutely achieve a fantastic filet mignon using a traditional pan-sear and oven-finish method. Here’s how:

Preheat your traditional oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven preheats, heat a cast-iron skillet or other oven-safe heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of butter or a high-smoke-point oil (like grapeseed or avocado oil) to the hot skillet. Once the oil is shimmering or the butter is foamy, carefully place your seasoned steaks in the skillet. Sear the steaks for 2 minutes on each side to develop a beautiful, flavorful crust.

After searing, immediately transfer the skillet with the steaks to the preheated oven. Continue cooking in the oven:

• For medium-rare, cook for 6 minutes.
• For medium, cook for 7-8 minutes.
• For well done, cook for 10-12 minutes.

Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure desired doneness. Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steaks to a cutting board to rest for 10 minutes before serving with your garlic butter.

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Filet Mignon Success

Follow these expert tips to ensure your air fryer filet mignon turns out perfect every single time:

• Bring Steaks to Room Temperature: This is a critical step often overlooked. Let your steaks sit at room temperature for at least 20-30 minutes before cooking. A cold steak will cook unevenly, resulting in a seared exterior and a cold or undercooked center. Room temperature steaks cook more consistently and quickly.
• Pat Your Steaks Dry: Before applying oil and seasoning, pat your steaks thoroughly dry with paper towels. Excess moisture on the surface of the steak can inhibit the Maillard reaction (the browning that creates rich flavor), leading to steaming rather than searing. A dry surface allows for a beautiful crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: For the best results, cook your steaks in a single layer without overlapping. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food. If the basket is overcrowded, air cannot circulate properly, leading to uneven cooking and a less crispy exterior. If you’re cooking for more than two people, it’s best to cook in batches.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: While touch tests can be helpful for experienced cooks, an instant-read meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your steak reaches your desired doneness without overcooking. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any bones or fat.
• Rest Your Steak: As mentioned in the instructions, resting your steak for 10 minutes after cooking is non-negotiable. This allows the juices, which have been drawn to the center during cooking, to redistribute throughout the entire cut. The result is a more tender, flavorful, and juicy steak. Tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
• Adjust for Thickness: The cooking times provided are for approximately 1.5-inch thick filet mignons. If your steaks are thinner (e.g., 1 inch), reduce the cooking time. For thicker steaks (e.g., 2 inches), you’ll need to increase the cooking time and carefully monitor the internal temperature.
• Enjoy Fresh & Store Leftovers Properly: I highly recommend enjoying this filet mignon the day you cook it for the best flavor and texture. However, any leftovers should be stored promptly in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the steak.

Delicious Pairings for Your Filet Mignon

A beautifully cooked filet mignon deserves equally delicious accompaniments. While creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice, here are some other ideas to complete your meal:

• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, green beans, or broccoli roasted with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper make a healthy and flavorful side.
• Crispy Potatoes: Think air fryer roasted potatoes or garlic herb potatoes for a textural contrast.
• Fresh Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the steak and butter.
• Creamy Risotto: Mushroom risotto or a parmesan risotto offers a luxurious and comforting side dish.
• Other Compound Butters: Experiment with different compound butters like blue cheese butter, chimichurri butter, or even a truffle butter for an extra touch of gourmet flair.

Explore More Air Fryer Delights

If you’re loving the convenience and results of air frying, don’t stop at filet mignon! The air fryer is a versatile appliance capable of creating a wide array of delicious dishes. Here are a few more of our favorite air fryer recipes:

• These Air Fryer Turkey Wings are incredibly tender, packed with flavor, and surprisingly easy to prepare.
• Air Fryer Scallops make for a quick and elegant appetizer or a light main course, perfectly seared and sweet.
• This Air Fryer Honey Chilean Sea Bass is coated in a delectable honey glaze, offering a flaky, moist fish that’s absolutely delicious and cooked to perfection.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Filet Mignon

Can I cook frozen filet mignon in the air fryer?

While it’s possible, it’s highly recommended to thaw filet mignon completely before cooking. Cooking from frozen will result in an uneven cook, with the outside potentially overcooked before the inside reaches the desired doneness. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

How thick should my filet mignon steaks be?

For optimal results in the air fryer, aim for steaks that are about 1.5 to 2 inches thick. This thickness allows for a good sear on the outside while maintaining a juicy, tender interior at your desired doneness.

Do I need to flip the steak in the air fryer?

Yes, flipping the steak halfway through the cooking process is crucial. This ensures even browning and consistent cooking on both sides, contributing to a better crust and more uniform doneness.

Can I use different seasonings for my air fryer filet mignon?

Absolutely! While salt and pepper are classic, feel free to get creative. A good quality steak rub, garlic powder, onion powder, a touch of paprika, or even fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary can elevate the flavor profile. Just be mindful not to overpower the delicate taste of the filet mignon.

What type of air fryer is best for cooking steak?

Any air fryer, whether basket-style or oven-style, can cook a great steak. The key is to ensure there’s enough space for air to circulate around the steak. If you have a smaller air fryer, you might need to cook steaks in batches.

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