Grilling a filet mignon might sound intimidating, but with the right technique, you can achieve a juicy, tender, and flavorful steak that rivals any steakhouse. This article will walk you through everything you need to know to grill the perfect filet mignon, from seasoning to resting, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth.
Why Grill Filet Mignon?
Filet mignon is prized for its incredible tenderness and mild, buttery flavor. Because it’s a lean cut from the beef tenderloin, it cooks quickly and benefits from precise grilling to keep it juicy and flavorful. Grilling adds a smoky char that enhances its natural taste, making it a favorite for special occasions or a delicious weeknight treat.
What You’ll Need
– Filet mignon steaks (about 1.5 to 2 inches thick)
– Olive oil or bacon fat (for extra flavor)
– Kosher salt or sea salt
– Freshly ground black pepper
– Optional: herb or garlic butter for topping
– Grill (gas or charcoal)
– Instant-read meat thermometer
– Kitchen string (optional, for tying steaks)
Preparing Your Filet Mignon
- Season in advance: For the best flavor, rub your steaks with olive oil and generously season with kosher salt and black pepper 24 to 48 hours before grilling. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This dry brining enhances tenderness and flavor.
- Bring to room temperature: About 30 to 45 minutes before grilling, remove the steaks from the fridge to let them come to room temperature. This helps them cook evenly.
- Tie the steaks (optional): Wrapping kitchen string around the middle of each steak helps maintain its shape and ensures even cooking.
Setting Up Your Grill
– Create two heat zones: For gas grills, turn on half the burners to high (direct heat) and leave the other half off (indirect heat). For charcoal grills, pile coals on one side for direct heat and leave the other side clear for indirect heat.
– Preheat the grill: Aim for a temperature of around 450°F to 500°F. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Grilling Your Filet Mignon
- Sear over direct heat: Place the steaks on the hot side of the grill. Close the lid and sear for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. This creates a beautiful crust and locks in juices.
- Move to indirect heat: Transfer the steaks to the cooler side of the grill. Close the lid and continue cooking for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
- Check doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature:
– Rare: 120°F–125°F
– Medium-rare (recommended): 130°F–135°F
– Medium: 140°F–145°F
– Medium-well: 150°F–155°F
Remove the steaks from the grill when they are about 5°F below your target temperature, as they will continue to cook while resting.
Resting and Serving
– Rest the steaks: Tent the filet mignon loosely with foil and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
– Add finishing touches: For extra richness, top your filet with a pat of garlic herb butter or your favorite compound butter.
– Serve: Pair with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Filet Mignon
– Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to avoid overcooking such a lean cut.
– Don’t skip the rest: Resting is crucial for juicy steak.
– Season generously: Filet mignon is lean, so salt and pepper are your friends.
– Let the grill do the work: Use the two-zone method to get a perfect sear and even cooking.
– Consider bacon fat: Brushing steaks with bacon fat instead of oil adds a subtle smoky flavor and helps with searing.
Grilling filet mignon is easier than you think with these simple steps. Whether it’s a special occasion or a weekend treat, mastering this technique will impress your guests and satisfy your steak cravings every time. Enjoy your perfectly grilled, tender, and juicy filet mignon!
Juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor-grilling filet mignon is a rewarding experience that elevates your steak game to new heights.