Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is a game-changer for steak lovers. Known for its tender texture and luxurious flavor, filet mignon is one of the most prized cuts of beef. By using an air fryer, you can achieve a perfectly seared exterior and a juicy, tender interior without the need for a grill or stovetop. This method is not only simple but also quick, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Filet Mignon?

An air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulation to cook food evenly and efficiently. It’s perfect for cooking filet mignon because it creates a crispy crust while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. The air fryer’s consistent heat ensures that your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, whether that's rare, medium, or well-done.

A basket air fryer is particularly well-suited for steaks, as it allows for proper airflow around the meat, ensuring even cooking. The basket design also makes cleanup a breeze, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pans.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Filet Mignon

To cook filet mignon in an air fryer, you’ll need the following ingredients:

l 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)

l 1 tablespoon olive oil

l 1 teaspoon salt

l 1 teaspoon black pepper

l 1 teaspoon garlic powder

l Optional: fresh rosemary or thyme for added flavor

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Filet Mignon in an Air Fryer

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures the air fryer is hot enough to create a nice sear on the outside of the steak.

2. Prepare the Steaks

Pat the filet mignon steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the steaks sear better.

Rub the steaks with olive oil, then season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. If desired, add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to enhance the flavor.

3. Arrange in the Basket

Place the steaks in the basket air fryer, ensuring they are not touching. This allows the hot air to circulate evenly around each steak, cooking them to perfection. If your air fryer basket is small, cook the steaks in batches to avoid overcrowding.

4. Cook the Filet Mignon

Cook the steaks at 400°F (200°C) for the following times based on your preferred doneness:

Rare: 6–8 minutes

Medium-rare: 8–10 minutes

Medium: 10–12 minutes

Well-done: 12–14 minutes

Flip the steaks halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides.

5. Check the Internal Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak:

Rare: 125°F (51°C)

Medium-rare: 135°F (57°C)

Medium: 145°F (63°C)

Well-done: 160°F (71°C)

Remove the steaks from the air fryer once they reach 5°F below your desired temperature, as they will continue to cook while resting.

6. Let the Steaks Rest

Allow the filet mignon to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Resting ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite tender and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Filet mignon pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas for air fryer recipes to complete your meal:

1. Air Fryer Garlic Butter Asparagus:

A quick and healthy side dish that complements the richness of the steak.

2. Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes:

Seasoned with herbs and cooked to golden perfection, these potatoes are a classic steakhouse pairing.

3. Air Fryer Mushrooms:

Sautéed with garlic and olive oil, mushrooms add an earthy flavor to your plate.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Filet Mignon

1. Choose High-Quality Meat:

Start with high-quality filet mignon, as the cut itself plays a significant role in the final taste and texture.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket:

Always leave space around the steaks in the basket air fryer to allow for even cooking. Crowding the basket can result in unevenly cooked meat.

3. Experiment with Seasonings:

While salt, pepper, and garlic powder are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other seasonings or marinades to suit your taste.

4. Use a Meat Thermometer:

This ensures precision, helping you achieve your desired doneness without overcooking.

Conclusion

Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is a simple and rewarding process. By using a basket air fryer, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak with minimal effort and mess. Pair it with delicious air fryer recipes, and you have a complete, mouthwatering meal ready to impress family and friends.

Whether you’re new to air fryers or a seasoned pro, this method will elevate your steak nights to a whole new level. Give it a try and savor the flavor of perfectly cooked filet mignon with all the convenience and ease that an air fryer offers!