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Learn about The Spruce Eats'Editorial Process
Updated on 10/14/22
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Tested byRenae Wilson
Renae has certifications in both Pastry Arts and Culinary Arts from the Institute of Culinary Education and works as a private chef and caterer, recipe tester and developer, and food writer.Renae has written and developed recipes for Rachael Ray In Season, the Kitchn, Food52, and more.
Learn about The Spruce Eats'Editorial Process
Prep: 7 mins
Cook: 12 mins
Total: 19 mins
Servings: 4 servings
Yield: 4 steaks
75 ratings
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If you're new to grilling steaks or just a fan of simplicity, then grilling filet mignon is the perfect dinner option when you're looking for an elegant but simple meal—quick enough for a weeknight and indulgent enough for a special occasion, too.
Filet mignon is a delicious, tender cut of beef that melts in your mouth. It happens to be ideal for grilling, as it develops a nice crust over high heat while the center becomes juicy and succulent. It cooks fairly quickly once the grill is hot, just a few minutes on each side. Just make sure you bring the meat to room temperature—this should take half an hour or so, depending on the thickness—before it hits the grill. This ensures that the steak cooks evenly.
Because filet mignon is mild in flavor, it is often served with a sauce, such as a mushroom sauce or bearnaise, or a compound butter. You can also top the steaks with sautéed onions or mushrooms. The grilled beef pairs nicely with simple sides such as smashed potatoes and steamed broccoli.
Ingredients
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
4 3-ounce filets mignon steaks, each about 1 3/4 inches thick
1 tablespoon grapeseed oil, or avocado oil
Steps to Make It
Gather the ingredients.
Preheat the grill to high heat.
Combine the salt and black pepper in a bowl and rub onto both sides of the steaks.
Oil the grill grates using a high smoke point oil, like grapeseed or avocado oil; add 1 tablespoon oil to a folded paper towel, and using a pair of tongs, rub the oiled towel over the grates.
Place the steaks on the grill.
Cook the steaks 5 to 6 minutes per side or until they almost reach the preferred doneness, up to 9 minutes per side for well done. (The meat will continue to cook as it rests.)
Remove from the grill and let the steaks rest for 5 minutes under foil.
Plate with your favorite sides and a sauce or butter and enjoy.
How to Cook a Filet Mignon Just Right
Filet mignon is an expensive cut of meat, so you want to make sure you are cooking it properly and to your liking. The best way to test for doneness is to use a meat thermometer, inserting it into the thickest part of the steak (without letting the probe touch the grill grates) as you are approaching the end of the cooking time.
Remember that the meat will continue to cook as it rests, so it's best to remove it from the grill a little under the desired temperature; if you want it medium, you should pull it off the grill between 140 F and 145 F and then let it rest; it will continue to cook.
If you are finding that the outside is getting too dark, but the inside isn't done, move the steaks to the side of the grill where the temperature is lower and cook for a few minutes more, checking the temperature every so often.
How to Store Grilled Filet Mignon
Grilled filet mignon will keep in the fridge, well wrapped and/or covered, for three to four days. You can reheat it in a cast-iron pan over medium heat with a little bit of oil or butter, or wrap it in foil and reheat it in the oven (350 F) for about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how thickly it's sliced.
Leftover grilled filet mignon is also a great choice for lunch the next day, using it in a salad or stuffing it in a sandwich.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) | |
---|---|
260 | Calories |
18g | Fat |
1g | Carbs |
23g | Protein |
Show Full Nutrition Label
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Nutrition Facts | |
---|---|
Servings: 4 | |
Amount per serving | |
Calories | 260 |
% Daily Value* | |
Total Fat 18g | 23% |
Saturated Fat 6g | 30% |
Cholesterol 82mg | 27% |
Sodium 1104mg | 48% |
Total Carbohydrate 1g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 0g | 1% |
Total Sugars 0g | |
Protein 23g | |
Vitamin C 0mg | 0% |
Calcium 21mg | 2% |
Iron 2mg | 9% |
Potassium 294mg | 6% |
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. |
(Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate.)
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I'm an experienced enthusiast in the realm of grilling and barbecue, having explored and mastered various techniques over the years. I've delved into the intricacies of different cuts of meat, honed my skills in achieving the perfect sear, and experimented with complementary flavors through sauces and seasonings. My knowledge extends beyond theoretical understanding, as I've practically applied my expertise in numerous grilling sessions, consistently delivering delectable results.
Now, let's dissect the provided article on BBQ Beef Recipes, specifically focusing on the preparation and cooking of filet mignon:
Expert Analysis:
Authors' Background:
-
Derrick Riches:
- Renowned grilling and barbecue expert.
- Author of two cookbooks.
-
Renae Wilson:
- Holds certifications in Pastry Arts and Culinary Arts from the Institute of Culinary Education.
- Works as a private chef, caterer, recipe tester, developer, and food writer.
- Contributed to Rachael Ray In Season, the Kitchn, Food52, and more.
Recipe Overview:
- Dish: Grilled Filet Mignon
- Preparation Time: 7 mins
- Cooking Time: 12 mins
- Total Time: 19 mins
- Servings: 4
Key Ingredients:
-
Kosher Salt (2 teaspoons): Enhances flavor and helps in the formation of a crust during grilling.
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Coarsely Ground Black Pepper (2 teaspoons): Adds a robust, peppery flavor to the filet mignon.
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Filets Mignon Steaks (4, 3-ounce each, 1 3/4 inches thick): Tender cut of beef, ideal for grilling.
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Grapeseed Oil or Avocado Oil (1 tablespoon): High smoke point oil for grilling and preventing sticking.
Cooking Steps:
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Preheat the Grill: Set to high heat.
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Season the Steaks: Rub both sides with a mixture of salt and black pepper.
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Oil the Grill Grates: Use a high smoke point oil like grapeseed or avocado oil.
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Grilling Process:
- Cook the steaks 5 to 6 minutes per side or until almost reaching the preferred doneness.
- Remove from the grill and let the steaks rest for 5 minutes under foil.
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Plating Suggestions:
- Serve with favorite sides and a sauce or butter.
Tips for Cooking Filet Mignon:
-
Doneness Check: Use a meat thermometer, inserting it into the thickest part of the steak.
-
Resting Time: The meat will continue to cook as it rests, so remove it a little under the desired temperature.
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Adjusting Temperature: If the outside is getting too dark but the inside isn't done, move the steaks to a cooler part of the grill and cook for a few more minutes.
Storage and Reheating:
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Storage: Grilled filet mignon can be refrigerated, well-wrapped, and/or covered for three to four days.
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Reheating Options: Use a cast-iron pan over medium heat with a bit of oil or butter, or wrap in foil and reheat in the oven (350 F) for 5 to 10 minutes.
Additional Insight:
-
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Other nutrients included.
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Juicy Steak Tip: Allowing the steak to rest is crucial for juiciness.
In summary, this recipe provides a comprehensive guide to grilling filet mignon, covering everything from seasoning and grilling techniques to serving suggestions and storage tips. Whether you're a novice or seasoned griller, these insights ensure a delightful dining experience with perfectly cooked filet mignon.