If you’ve ever dreamed of making restaurant-quality filet mignon at home, you need to make this easy air fryer filet mignon recipe. The air fryer is a game-changer for cooking steak—tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked every time.
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This method gives you the seared crust and succulent center of a steakhouse steak without the need for a grill or cast iron pan. Whether you’re a steak lover or just starting your gourmet home-cooking journey, this foolproof recipe will become a go-to.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Filet Mignon Recipe
- Quick & Convenient: Dinner is ready in under 15 minutes, with minimal cleanup.
- Consistently Delicious Results: The air fryer cooks filet mignon evenly, with a juicy center and crispy edges.
- Beginner-Friendly: No need for complex techniques or expensive equipment—just season, air fry, and enjoy.
- Healthier Cooking Method: No heavy oils or frying—just a light olive oil spray.
- Perfect for Special Occasions or Weeknight Meals: This elegant cut of beef feels luxurious, yet it’s easy enough for any day of the week.
- Check out these Air Fryer Chicken Breasts for another easy air fryer recipe!
Ingredients & Substitutes
These are the ingredients and substitutes for this air fryer filet mignon recipe. Scroll down to the recipe card below for the full instructions and measurements.
First, choose a high quality filet mignon. Look for one with slight marbling, but not too much fat. If you only have frozen steak, thaw completely beforehand.
Season the meat with sea salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Use olive oil spray to help coat the steak. Otherwise, there is no oil needed.
To make the garlic butter, combine the softened butter and minced garlic.
Taste & Texture
Filet mignon is known for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and subtle, buttery flavor. This air fryer filet mignon develops a crisp exterior while maintaining a soft, juicy interior.
The garlic butter melts over the warm steak, adding richness and a savory finish that takes each bite to the next level.
How to Make
Step 1
First, pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with sea salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2
Place in the air fryer basket. Spray with olive oil spray.
Step 3
Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping after 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 4
While this steaks cook, combine the softened butter and minced garlic.
Step 5
Once the steaks are done, remove from the air fryer basket. Allow them to sit for 5 minutes before topping with garlic butter and serving.
Expert Tips for Success
These are the tips and tricks to make the perfect air fryer filet mignon.
Pat Steaks Dry: Removing moisture helps create a better crust when air frying.
Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, check the internal temperature:
- Rare: 120–125°F
- Medium Rare: 130–135°F
- Medium: 140–145°F
- Medium Well: 150–155°F
Let It Rest: After cooking, rest the steak for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air needs to circulate to sear the steak evenly.
Butter It Up: Use room-temperature butter mixed with garlic or herbs for that classic steakhouse touch.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
Want to make your air fryer filet mignon even more exciting? Try these variations:
Herb Butter: Mix butter with fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley.
Blue Cheese Crust: Add a crumble of blue cheese before the last 1-2 minutes of air frying.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the seasoning mix.
Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap each filet with a slice of bacon and secure with toothpicks before air frying.
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a sweet and tangy finish.
How to Serve & Store
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your air fryer filet mignon with classic sides like:
How to Store:
Refrigerate: Store leftover filet mignon in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Gently reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, which can dry it out.
Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs
Yes, but for best results, thaw completely before air frying. Cooking from frozen may lead to uneven doneness.
Steaks around 1.5 to 2 inches thick work best. Adjust cooking time as needed for thicker or thinner cuts.
Preheating isn’t required, but doing so for 2–3 minutes can help achieve a better sear.
Absolutely. Use a dairy-free butter alternative or skip the butter and finish with a drizzle of olive oil.
Equipment Needed
Air Fryer: This is our air fryer! It is easy to use and easy to clean.
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