Name: Air Fryer Filet Mignon Recipe: Tender and Juicy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 6–8 oz filet mignon steaks; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary; 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted); Optional: Fresh parsley or thyme; Suggested Pairings: Mashed potatoes (red wine)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Air Fryer Filet Mignon is an elegant main dish, perfect for special dinners, date nights, or celebrations. This tender, juicy steak, cooked to perfection with a flavorful crust, delivers a restaurant-quality experience in every bite. Presented on a white ceramic plate, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, this Filet Mignon offers a vibrant, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any meal. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a sophisticated, crowd-pleasing dish that brings gourmet flair to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Filet Mignon:

2 (6–8 oz) filet mignon steaks, about 1.5 inches thick
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Serving:

Optional: Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
Suggested Accompaniments: Mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus
Suggested Pairings: Red wine, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic plate
Suggested Equipment: Air fryer, tongs, meat thermometer, small bowl, brush, cutting board, measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Steaks: Pat filet mignon steaks dry with paper towels. Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes for even cooking.
Season Steaks: In a small bowl, mix kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme or rosemary. Rub steaks with olive oil, then coat evenly with seasoning mix. Taste a pinch of the seasoning mix and adjust with additional salt or pepper to ensure a balanced flavor.
Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
Cook Steaks: Place steaks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway, depending on desired doneness (8 min for rare, 10 min for medium-rare, 12 min for medium). Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature: 120–125°F for rare, 130–135°F for medium-rare, 140–145°F for medium.
Rest: Remove steaks and brush with melted butter. Tent with foil and let rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
Serve: Slice against the grain, if desired, and arrange on a white ceramic plate. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, red wine, or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Air Fryer Filet Mignon

Choose evenly thick steaks (1.5–2 inches) for consistent cooking; ask your butcher for center-cut filets.
Taste the seasoning mix before applying to balance savory and herbaceous flavors; adjust with salt or herbs.
Let steaks sit at room temperature to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness, as air fryer models vary.
Use a white ceramic plate for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the golden crust and green garnish.
Brush with butter after cooking to enhance richness without burning.
Make ahead: Season steaks up to 4 hours in advance; refrigerate and bring to room temperature before cooking.
Enhance aesthetic: Present on a white ceramic plate with fresh herbs for an elegant, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Filet Mignon: Naturally gluten-free; ensure sides are gluten-free.
Low-Sodium Filet Mignon: Reduce salt to 1/2 tsp and use unsalted butter.
Spicy Filet Mignon: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
Herb-Forward Filet Mignon: Use fresh rosemary or thyme instead of dried; finely chop and mix with 1 tsp olive oil for a rub.
Garlic Butter Filet Mignon: Add 1 minced garlic clove to melted butter for brushing.
Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon: Wrap each steak with a slice of bacon before seasoning; secure with a toothpick.
Vegan Alternative: Replace steak with portobello mushrooms; season and air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
Compound Butter Topping: Top with a pat of herb butter (mix 2 tbsp softened butter with 1 tsp chopped parsley and 1/2 tsp garlic).

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftover cooked steaks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes.
Freeze cooked steaks in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Serve hot for the best juicy texture and flavor.
Use as a main dish for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Pair with red wine or sparkling water to complement the rich, savory flavor.
Present on a white ceramic plate with vibrant herb garnish for an elegant, appetizing charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 2 servings (without sides):

Calories: 450 kcal
Total Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 135mg
Sodium: 650mg
Total Carbohydrates: 1g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 38g
Vitamin A: 6% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
Calcium: 4% Daily Value
Iron: 20% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sodium options reduce sodium to ~400mg). High in protein; pair with vegetables for balance. Enjoy in moderation.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Filet Mignon recipe offers a tender, juicy main dish, perfect for any special occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet classic. Its quick preparation and elegant presentation make it a favorite. The flavorful crust and succulent interior delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its sophisticated, crowd-pleasing appeal.