Description

There’s something absolutely magical about the moment you slice into a perfectly cooked filet mignon – that tender, buttery texture that melts in your mouth like no other cut of beef. For years, I thought achieving restaurant-quality filet mignon at home meant firing up the grill or heating up a cast iron skillet. Then I discovered the game-changing secret of cooking Air Fryer Filet Mignon.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steaks:

2 filet mignon steaks (6–8 oz each, 1.5 inches thick)
2 tablespoons high-heat oil (avocado or grapeseed oil work beautifully)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Finishing Touch:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 fresh thyme sprigs
2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed

Substitution Ideas:

For dairy-free: Replace butter with herb-infused olive oil
For different flavors: Try Montreal steak seasoning instead of individual spices
For budget-friendly: Substitute with thick-cut ribeye or New York strip steaks
For herb lovers: Add fresh rosemary or sage to your seasoning blend

Instructions

1. Prepare the Steaks

Remove your filet mignon from the refrigerator and let them rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This ensures even cooking throughout. Pat each steak completely dry with paper towels – this step is crucial for achieving that beautiful sear. Brush both sides lightly with oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. The salt will help create that gorgeous crust we’re after.

2. Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3-4 minutes. A properly preheated air fryer is essential for immediate searing when the steaks hit the basket. This initial blast of heat locks in those delicious juices.

3. Cook the First Side

Place the seasoned filet mignon in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not touching. Cook for 4-5 minutes without flipping. You’ll hear a gentle sizzling – that’s the sound of perfection happening. Resist the urge to peek too early; let that crust develop undisturbed.

4. Flip and Finish

Carefully flip your steaks using tongs. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature of 130°F), 4-5 minutes for medium (135°F), or 5-6 minutes for medium-well (145°F). The exact timing depends on the thickness of your steaks and your air fryer model.

5. Rest and Finish with Butter

Remove the steaks and immediately top each with a pat of butter, fresh thyme, and crushed garlic. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is incredibly tender and flavorful.

Nutrition

Calories: 420-450
Fat: 22-26g
Carbohydrates: 1-2g
Protein: 45-50g