Grilling filet mignon is a fantastic way to enjoy one of the most tender and luxurious cuts of beef. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this guide will walk you through how to cook filet mignon on the grill to juicy, tender perfection every time.
Why Grill Filet Mignon?
Filet mignon is prized for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and mild, buttery flavor. It’s a lean cut from the beef tenderloin, which means it has very little fat, so it needs careful seasoning and cooking to bring out its best. Grilling adds a smoky char and seals in the juices, making it an ideal cooking method for this special steak.
What You’ll Need
– 2 filet mignon steaks (about 1½ 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
– A gas or charcoal grill
– Instant-read meat thermometer
Step-by-Step Guide to Grilling Filet Mignon
1. Season Ahead for Maximum Flavor
For the best taste, rub your steaks with olive oil and generously season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 24 to 48 hours before grilling. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This dry brining helps the seasoning penetrate the meat and enhances flavor.
2. Bring to Room Temperature
About 30 to 45 minutes before grilling, remove the steaks from the fridge. Letting them come to room temperature ensures even cooking and prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside warms up.
3. Prepare Your Grill for Two-Zone Cooking
Preheat your grill to about 450°F to 500°F. Set up two zones:
– Direct heat zone: For searing steaks quickly at high heat.
– Indirect heat zone: For finishing the cooking gently without burning.
If using a charcoal grill, pile hot coals on one side. For gas grills, turn on half the burners to high and leave the others off or low.
4. Clean and Oil the Grill Grates
Use a grill brush to clean the grates, then oil them lightly with an olive-oil-soaked paper towel held with tongs. This prevents sticking and helps develop a beautiful crust on your steaks.
5. Sear the Filet Mignon
Place the steaks on the direct heat side of the grill. Close the lid and sear for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. This high heat creates a flavorful crust without overcooking the inside.
6. Move to Indirect Heat to Finish Cooking
Transfer the steaks to the indirect heat side. Close the lid and cook for an additional 3 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness:
– Rare: 120°F–125°F
– Medium-rare (recommended): 130°F–135°F
– Medium: 140°F–145°F
– Medium-well: 150°F–155°F
Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy. For a 1½-inch thick steak, expect about 7 to 11 minutes total cooking time after searing.
7. Rest Your Steaks
Remove the filet mignon from the grill and tent loosely with foil. Let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy, tender steak when you cut into it.
8. Serve and Enjoy
For an extra touch of flavor, top your filet mignon with a pat of herb or garlic butter. Serve alongside your favorite grilled vegetables or a classic side like twice-baked potatoes for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Filet Mignon
– Tie the steaks: Wrapping kitchen string around the middle helps the steak keep its shape and cook evenly.
– Use bacon fat: Instead of olive oil, smear bacon fat on the steaks for a smoky flavor and a great sear.
– Choose uniform thickness: Steaks of the same thickness cook more evenly.
– Don’t over-season: Filet mignon is delicate; simple seasoning with salt and pepper is best.
– Use a thermometer: This is the key to avoiding over- or undercooking.
How Long Does It Take to Grill Filet Mignon?
For a 1-inch thick filet mignon, grill about 7 to 8 minutes total for medium-rare. For a thicker 1½ to 2-inch steak, expect 9 to 11 minutes or a bit longer, depending on your grill and heat zones. Remember to sear first over direct heat, then finish over indirect heat.
Grilling filet mignon is easier than you think. With simple seasoning, proper grill setup, and a little attention to temperature, you can enjoy a juicy, tender steak that rivals any steakhouse.
Perfectly grilled filet mignon is a delicious way to impress your guests or treat yourself to a special meal. Fire up that grill and enjoy the rich, buttery flavor of this classic cut!