The BEST Air Fryer Filet Mignon

What is Filet Mignon

First of all, if you're not well-versed in the steak world, you might be wondering what is so special about this cut of beef! Filet mignon is one of the most expensive cuts of steak you can buy. It's cut from the smaller end of the tenderloin and is incredibly tender, juicy, and delicious. It's the kind of steak that "melts in your mouth."

As you can imagine, this is a pricey dish when purchased at steakhouses, and while it still is pricey to get at the grocery store, it's not nearly as expensive. And with this air fryer method, it has never been easier to make absolutely perfect steak, every single time. I'm telling you, restaurant quality right in your home kitchen!

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What Makes This Recipe Great

Air Frying + Filet Mignon + Garlic Herb Butter = the easiest, most delicious, and tender steak dinner (just like my garlic butter steak bites!). Cooking filet mignon in the air fryer is the perfect cozy dinner for two, or even a quick & easy weeknight meal. You really can't go wrong with this method.

With easy prep and just 10 minutes to cook, this air fryer recipe is the easiest way you’ve ever made steak! It's tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked, every single time. Plus, the garlic herb butter is the perfect steak seasoning. Tons of flavor packed in every bite. 

Serve with a baked potato, asparagus, or your favorite side, and enjoy!

• Filet Mignon steaks: This recipe calls for two 8oz steaks. If you plan to make more, make them in batches so as to not overcrowd your air fryer.
• Olive Oil: Avocado oil is fine to use as well.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Be generous!
• Butter: Softened to room temperature. Use vegan butter for dairy-free. In my opinion, Miyokos is the best brand of vegan butter!
• Fresh Rosemary & Thyme: Chopped. Fresh is preferred for this herb butter steak, but you could do ⅓ the amount if you need to use dried herbs.
• Garlic Powder: If you prefer to use fresh garlic, you can substitute 1 clove minced.
• Salt: Add ½ tsp total if using unsalted butter. 

1. Brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil. Sprinkle both sides GENEROUSLY with salt and pepper.
2. Place your steaks in the air fryer basket, with space between them. Follow the follow cook times, depending on how you like your steak cooked. 
3. Cook at 400 degrees for 9-10 minutes for rare, 10-11 minutes for medium-rare, 11-12 minutes for medium, 11.5 -13 mins for medium-well, and 14 minutes for well done. Use a meat thermometer to check for the right temperature - 120 degrees for rare, 130 degrees for medium-rare, 140 degrees for medium, 150 degrees for medium-well, or 160 degrees for well done.
4. Let the filets rest for 3-5 minutes, then serve with a slice of garlic herb butter. Enjoy!

Garlic Herb Butter

1. Soften the Butter: Let the butter and steaks come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. 
2. Make the Butter: Combine the butter, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, and salt in a bowl and use a fork to mix it up well. Transfer the butter to a piece of parchment paper. Roll the paper while forming the butter into a log, folding up the paper to cover it completely. Keep the butter in the refrigerator while you make the steaks.

Mary’s Tips & Tricks

• Dairy Free: If you need to make this recipe dairy-free, use vegan butter like Miyokos or Earth Balance. If you’re Whole30, feel free to substitute ghee.
• Batches: If you want to double the recipe, make your steak in batches so you don’t overcrowd your air fryer. Follow the same directions for subsequent batches.

How to Pick the Best Filet Mignon

There are a few ways to make sure you choose the best cut of meat. 

1. Pick a nice store! Maybe you have a local butcher shop, which is a great place to start. Otherwise, if you are going to the grocery store, choose one that has a nice meat department. Places like Wegman's, Whole Foods, Sprouts, and other specialty stores might be a little pricier, but they also typically have fresh, high-quality meat on hand. 
2. Choose USDA Prime or Choice cuts. These are going to be the top-quality cuts based on the USDA grading system. 
3. Look for a center cut. This will be a little more expensive, but this choice really delivers a good cut of meat! 
4. When in doubt, ask the meat department! Don't be afraid to ask questions and pick the right steak. If you're going to splurge on steak, it's perfectly acceptable to ask for help so you know you're picking the right cut.  

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