How Do You Cook Filet Mignon Perfectly in an Air Fryer?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cooking Equipment Use

When it comes to indulging in a tender, juicy steak, filet mignon stands out as a top choice for many food lovers. Known for its buttery texture and rich flavor, this cut of beef is often reserved for special occasions or elegant dinners. However, achieving the perfect filet mignon doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Thanks to modern kitchen appliances like the air fryer, you can now enjoy restaurant-quality steak right at home with minimal effort.

Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer offers a convenient and efficient way to lock in flavors while creating a beautifully seared exterior and a tender, juicy interior. This method eliminates the need for excessive oil or constant monitoring, making it an excellent option for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a gourmet meal, mastering this technique can elevate your culinary repertoire.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essentials of preparing filet mignon in an air fryer, including tips on seasoning, timing, and achieving the perfect doneness. Get ready to discover how this versatile appliance can transform your steak nights into a deliciously effortless experience.

Preparing the Filet Mignon for Air Frying

Before placing the filet mignon in the air fryer, it is essential to prepare the steak properly to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor. Start by removing the filet mignon from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. This step promotes uniform cooking throughout the steak.

Pat the steak dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a desirable crust. Season the filet generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. For enhanced flavor, consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Lightly coat the steak with a high-smoke-point oil such as avocado oil or grapeseed oil to prevent sticking and encourage browning.

If desired, you can tie the filet mignon with kitchen twine to maintain its shape, especially if the cut is uneven. This also helps in achieving consistent doneness.

Setting Up and Using the Air Fryer

Properly setting up your air fryer is crucial for cooking a filet mignon evenly and to the preferred doneness. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for about 3-5 minutes to ensure the cooking chamber reaches the optimal temperature before placing the steak inside.

When placing the filet mignon in the air fryer basket, arrange it so that air can circulate freely around the steak. Avoid overcrowding; if cooking multiple steaks, cook them in batches to maintain consistent heat and airflow.

During cooking, it is advisable to flip the steak halfway through the cooking time. This ensures even browning on both sides and prevents one side from becoming overcooked.

Air Frying Times and Temperature Guide

The cooking time for filet mignon in an air fryer depends on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. Below is a detailed table outlining approximate cooking times and internal temperatures for various doneness levels for a 1.5-inch thick filet mignon. Adjust times slightly for thicker or thinner cuts.

Doneness Internal Temperature (°F) Air Fryer Temperature Cooking Time (minutes) Instructions
Rare 120-125 400°F (204°C) 8-9 Flip halfway through cooking
Medium Rare 130-135 400°F (204°C) 10-11 Flip halfway through cooking
Medium 140-145 400°F (204°C) 12-13 Flip halfway through cooking
Medium Well 150-155 400°F (204°C) 14-15 Flip halfway through cooking
Well Done 160+ 400°F (204°C) 16-17 Flip halfway through cooking

Using an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature is highly recommended to ensure precision and avoid overcooking.

Resting and Serving the Filet Mignon

Once the filet mignon has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the air fryer and place it on a cutting board or plate. Resting the steak for 5 to 10 minutes is critical to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, which results in a juicier, more tender steak.

During resting, tent the steak loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm. Avoid cutting into the steak immediately after cooking, as this will cause the juices to escape.

Before serving, consider finishing the filet mignon with a pat of herb butter or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance flavor and add richness. Pair the steak with complementary sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Air-Fried Filet Mignon

  • Choose the right cut: Select high-quality filet mignon steaks, ideally 1.5 to 2 inches thick for optimal air frying results.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Always preheat to ensure immediate searing and proper cooking.
  • Use a thermometer: Rely on an instant-read meat thermometer to gauge doneness accurately.
  • Avoid overcrowding: Cook steaks in batches if necessary to maintain air circulation.
  • Flip the steak: Turning the steak halfway through cooking promotes even browning.
  • Let it rest: Rest the steak after cooking to preserve juiciness and tenderness.
  • Experiment with seasoning: Customize your flavor profile with different herbs, spices, or marinades before cooking.

Preparing the Filet Mignon for Air Frying

Before cooking filet mignon in an air fryer, proper preparation is essential to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor. Start by selecting high-quality, well-marbled filet mignon steaks, ideally 1.5 to 2 inches thick, which allows for a juicy interior while achieving a desirable crust.

  • Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit uncovered for 20-30 minutes. This promotes even cooking by reducing the temperature disparity between the inside and outside of the steak.
  • Dry the Surface: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture enhances browning and crust formation during cooking.
  • Season Generously: Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for additional flavor layers.
  • Light Oil Coating: Lightly brush the steaks with a high smoke point oil like avocado or grapeseed oil to aid in searing and to prevent sticking to the air fryer basket.

Setting Up the Air Fryer for Optimal Results

To cook filet mignon properly, configure your air fryer with the following considerations:

Parameter Recommended Setting Notes
Temperature 400°F (204°C) High heat promotes Maillard reaction for a crusty exterior.
Cooking Time 8-12 minutes Depends on steak thickness and desired doneness.
Preheat 5 minutes Preheating ensures immediate searing on contact.
Basket Position Center rack Allows even air circulation around the steak.

Ensure the air fryer basket is clean and dry before placing the steak inside. Avoid overcrowding the basket; cook steaks individually or in batches to maintain proper airflow and consistent cooking.

Cooking Process and Doneness Guide

Follow these steps to cook filet mignon in the air fryer:

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the temperature to 400°F (204°C) and preheat for 5 minutes.
  2. Place the Steak: Lay the seasoned filet mignon flat in the basket, ensuring space around the meat.
  3. Cook Halfway: Air fry for 4-6 minutes.
  4. Flip the Steak: Using tongs, carefully flip the steak to the other side.
  5. Complete Cooking: Air fry for another 4-6 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness.

Use a reliable instant-read meat thermometer to check internal temperature. Refer to the following doneness guide:

Doneness Internal Temperature Texture Description
Rare 120-125°F (49-52°C) Cool, red center; very soft texture.
Medium Rare 130-135°F (54-57°C) Warm, red center; tender and juicy.
Medium 140-145°F (60-63°C) Pink center with firm texture.
Medium Well 150-155°F (66-68°C) Slightly pink center; firmer texture.
Well Done 160°F+ (71°C+) Fully cooked through; firm and less juicy.

Remove the steak from the air fryer when it reaches 5°F below your target temperature to allow for carryover cooking during resting.

Resting and Serving the Filet Mignon

Resting the steak is critical for optimal juiciness and texture:

  • Transfer the filet mignon to a warm plate or cutting board.
  • Loosely tent with aluminum foil to retain heat.
  • Rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute within the meat fibers.

After resting, slice the filet mignon if desired, against the grain to maximize tenderness. Serve with complementary sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. Optionally, enhance with a sauce like Béarnaise, red wine reduction, or compound butter infused with herbs and garlic.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect

Expert Insights on Cooking Filet Mignon in an Air Fryer

Chef Laura Bennett (Executive Chef and Culinary Educator) emphasizes, “When cooking filet mignon in an air fryer, it is crucial to preheat the appliance to ensure even cooking. I recommend seasoning the steak simply with salt and pepper to highlight its natural flavor, then air frying at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method preserves the tenderness and achieves a perfect medium-rare finish without drying out the meat.”

Dr. Marcus Lee (Food Scientist and Meat Specialist) explains, “The air fryer’s rapid air circulation allows for a unique searing effect on filet mignon, which is traditionally pan-seared. To maximize juiciness, it is important to let the steak rest after cooking to redistribute the juices. Additionally, using a meat thermometer to reach an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare ensures optimal texture and safety.”

Angela Kim (Nutritionist and Culinary Consultant) advises, “Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods because it requires little to no added fat. For those mindful of nutrition, pairing the steak with air-fried vegetables can create a balanced meal. It is also beneficial to avoid overcooking, as filet mignon’s lean profile means it can become tough if exposed to excessive heat.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the ideal temperature to cook filet mignon in an air fryer?
The ideal temperature to cook filet mignon in an air fryer is 400°F (204°C) to achieve a perfectly seared exterior and tender interior.

How long should I cook filet mignon in an air fryer for medium-rare?
For medium-rare, cook the filet mignon for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time.

Should I season the filet mignon before air frying?
Yes, seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional herbs or garlic before air frying enhances the flavor and creates a delicious crust.

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer before cooking filet mignon?
Preheating the air fryer for 3-5 minutes ensures even cooking and helps develop a better sear on the filet mignon.

Can I cook frozen filet mignon in an air fryer?
It is possible, but for best results, thaw the filet mignon before air frying to ensure even cooking and proper texture.

How do I check the doneness of filet mignon cooked in an air fryer?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 125°F (52°C) for rare, 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, and 145°F (63°C) for medium.
Cooking filet mignon in an air fryer is an efficient and effective method that delivers a tender, juicy steak with a perfectly seared exterior. By preheating the air fryer, seasoning the filet mignon properly, and monitoring the cooking time and temperature, one can achieve restaurant-quality results in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. The air fryer’s rapid air circulation ensures even cooking, making it an excellent choice for this premium cut of beef.

Key takeaways include the importance of allowing the steak to come to room temperature before cooking, using a high temperature setting (typically around 400°F), and flipping the steak halfway through the cooking process to promote even browning. Additionally, resting the filet mignon after cooking is crucial to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.

Overall, the air fryer offers a convenient and reliable way to prepare filet mignon, especially for those seeking a quick yet high-quality meal. With attention to timing, seasoning, and resting, anyone can master this technique and enjoy a delicious steak with minimal effort and cleanup.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.