How to Cook Filet in an Air Fryer: A Quick and Easy Guide
If you’re a fan of juicy and tender filet mignon, you might be wondering if it’s possible to achieve the same level of perfection when cooking it in an air fryer. Well, the good news is that you absolutely can! In this guide, we will walk you through the process of cooking filet in an air fryer, step by step. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and hassle-free meal!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s start by gathering all the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe. For cooking filet in an air fryer, you’ll need the following:
1. Filet Mignon: Choose high-quality filet mignon cuts that are at least 1 inch thick. This will ensure a tender and juicy result.
2. Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil will add flavor and prevent the filet from sticking to the air fryer basket.
3. Salt and Pepper: Season your filet with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavors.
Preheat Your Air Fryer
Just like preheating an oven, it’s crucial to preheat your air fryer before cooking. This helps to ensure a consistent cooking temperature throughout the process. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
Season and Prepare the Filet
While your air fryer is preheating, it’s time to season and prepare the filet. Start by lightly drizzling olive oil over both sides of the filet. This will help the seasoning stick and prevent it from drying out during cooking. Then, generously season the filet with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Getting the Perfect Sear:
To achieve a restaurant-quality sear on your air-fried filet, it’s recommended to sear it on the stovetop before transferring it to the air fryer. This step is optional, however, and if you prefer, you can skip it and move straight to cooking the filet in the air fryer.
To sear your filet on the stovetop, heat a skillet over high heat and add a bit of oil. Place the filet in the skillet and sear each side for about 1-2 minutes, or until a golden crust forms. This initial searing will lock in juices and create a flavorful exterior.
Cooking the Filet in the Air Fryer
Now that your filet is seasoned and seared (if desired), it’s time to transfer it to the air fryer. Place the filet in the air fryer basket, making sure there is space between each piece for proper airflow.
Selecting the Right Cooking Time:
The cooking time for filet in an air fryer depends on the thickness of the cut and your desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, you can follow these cooking times:
– Medium-Rare: 8-10 minutes
– Medium: 10-12 minutes
– Well-Done: 12-15 minutes
Remember that these times are approximate and it’s crucial to check the internal temperature of the filet using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of around 130°F (54°C), while medium should be around 140°F (60°C), and well-done should reach 160°F (71°C). Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on your preferred doneness and thickness of the filet.
Rest and Serve
Once the filet reaches your desired level of doneness, it’s crucial to let it rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful filet.
To rest the filet, simply remove it from the air fryer and let it sit on a cutting board or plate for about 5 minutes. This short resting period will make a significant difference in the final taste and texture of your filet.
After resting, you can serve your air-fried filet as is or pair it with your favorite sauce or side dishes. Whether you choose classic mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables or a refreshing salad, your air-fried filet is sure to impress.
Conclusion
Cooking filet in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve a beautifully cooked steak without the need for a grill or stovetop. By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, you can enjoy a tender and juicy filet that rivals the flavors of your favorite steakhouse. So why not give it a try and elevate your cooking game with the convenience of an air fryer? Happy cooking!