When time is tight but you’re craving something luxurious, there’s one secret weapon I always turn to — air fryer filet mignon. It sounds fancy, maybe even a bit intimidating, but once you’ve cooked a steak in your air fryer, there’s no going back. This guide walks you through everything: the cut, the prep, and the exact timing that guarantees a tender, buttery filet without ever firing up the grill or messing with a skillet. Whether you’re cooking for one or trying to impress someone special, this air fryer method delivers consistently perfect results.
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Air Fryer Filet Mignon: Juicy, Quick and Perfect Every Time
Description
Air fryer filet mignon is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy steakhouse-quality results at home. Perfectly seared on the outside and juicy inside, it’s an easy dinner option for any night.
Ingredients
2 filet mignon steaks (1.5–2 inches thick)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 garlic clove, minced
1 sprig of rosemary or thyme (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
2. Pat the filet mignon steaks dry with a paper towel.
3. Rub the steaks with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
4. Place the steaks in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
5. Cook for 5–6 minutes, then flip the steaks using tongs.
6. Continue cooking for another 5–6 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches your preferred doneness (130–135°F for medium-rare).
7. Remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Let steaks come to room temperature before cooking for even results.
Resting is key to keeping the filet mignon juicy and tender.
Great with garlic butter, mashed veggies, or a crisp salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 filet
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why Filet Mignon in the Air Fryer Just Works
I still remember the night I first made air fryer filet mignon. It was midweek, the kind of night when you want dinner on the table fast. I had two beautiful steaks and didn’t feel like using the stovetop. So I tossed them into the air fryer, added a few seasonings, and hoped for the best.
What came out was incredible. The aroma, the sear, the perfectly pink center — I couldn’t believe this came from my air fryer. It wasn’t just easy, it was delicious. My husband couldn’t stop talking about it, and I’ve made it that way ever since.
Air fryer filet mignon isn’t just a kitchen shortcut. It’s a dependable way to get gourmet results, even on a busy night. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or trying to impress someone, it always delivers.
Pair it with a crisp side like these air fryer sweet potato cubes or finish your meal with a classic jammy egg appetizer for a complete, flavor-packed experience.
Better Than a Steakhouse (Really!)
What makes air fryer filet mignon such a winner is how clean and efficient the cooking process is. No smoky kitchen. No greasy pans. You just season your steak, pop it into the basket, and flip it once halfway through. That’s it.
And the best part? The air fryer gives your filet a crusty sear on the outside while locking in the juices inside. No more worrying about overcooking or ending up with a dry steak. The results are consistent, every time.
Even if you’ve never cooked filet mignon before, this recipe will make you feel like a pro. It’s an approachable way to serve a special dish with minimal effort.
Try it alongside a refreshing pineapple cucumber salad or as a protein-packed dinner followed by vegan oatmeal cookies for dessert. You’ll have a full meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple.
Choosing the Right Cut for Air Fryer Success
To get the best air fryer filet mignon, you need to start with the right cut. Look for steaks that are at least 1.5 inches thick — thicker cuts hold up better to the air fryer’s high heat and give you that perfect medium-rare center. Filet mignon is known for its tenderness, and while it’s often pricey, it’s worth every bite when cooked properly.
Go for center-cut filet mignon if possible. These are evenly shaped and cook more uniformly. You can find good options at your local butcher or a quality grocery store. Avoid steaks that are uneven or too thin — they’ll cook too fast and risk drying out.
If you’re planning ahead for meal prep, you can also check out our guide on reuse of avocado oil after deep frying — it’s great for seasoning steak pans or even brushing onto the meat for extra flavor.
Simple Prep, Serious Flavor
One of the best parts of cooking air fryer filet mignon is how little it takes to make it amazing. You don’t need complicated marinades or hours of prep. Just a few basics: olive oil, kosher salt, freshly cracked pepper, and a clove or two of garlic. That’s it.
Rub each filet with olive oil to help it brown in the air fryer. Season generously with salt and pepper — don’t be shy, this is what builds the crust. If you’re feeling fancy, tuck in a sprig of rosemary or thyme alongside the steak as it cooks.
Let your steaks sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly. And once they’re done, rest them again for 5 minutes. It keeps the juices locked in and ensures a tender bite.
Here’s a quick comparison of seasoning ideas to suit different tastes:
| Seasoning | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Salt, pepper, garlic | Classic, bold |
| Olive oil + rosemary | Earthy, herby |
| Smoked paprika + sea salt | Smoky, rich |
Need more easy prep ideas for sides? These baked boneless chicken thighs use a similar seasoning style and pair beautifully with a light green salad or air-fried veggies.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking air fryer filet mignon is fast and simple when you follow the right steps. First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This gives the steaks a good start and helps with that beautiful crust. While it heats, pat your steaks dry with a paper towel — dry steaks sear better.
Place the filet mignon in the basket, leaving room around each one. Cook for 5–6 minutes, flip, and then cook for another 5–6 minutes depending on your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer to be sure. That’s the most reliable way to hit your perfect temp.
Here’s a temperature guide to help you decide when your air fryer filet mignon is done:
| Doneness | Internal Temp | Cook Time (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 120–125°F | 9–10 minutes total |
| Medium-Rare | 130–135°F | 10–11 minutes total |
| Medium | 140–145°F | 11–12 minutes total |
| Medium-Well | 150–155°F | 12–13 minutes total |
| Well-Done | 160°F+ | 13–14 minutes total |
After removing the steaks from the air fryer, let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, giving you a tender, flavorful result.
Curious about more easy mains like this one? Try this high-protein cottage cheese pizza bowl or our crowd-pleasing keto Japanese BBQ sauce for dipping or brushing on steaks.
Do You Flip? Absolutely Yes
Yes, you need to flip your air fryer filet mignon — and here’s why. The hot air in your fryer flows around the basket, but it’s more intense on the top. Flipping halfway through balances the cooking and gives you a seared, golden crust on both sides.
Use tongs and be gentle. Flip only once during cooking to avoid disturbing the crust. This small step makes a big difference.
Another tip: don’t overcrowd your air fryer. Cook two steaks at a time max for even air circulation. If you’re feeding more, cook in batches.
For steak nights or easy protein dishes, air fryer filet mignon pairs beautifully with vegetable-forward recipes like our wok stir-fry frozen vegetables or a creamy pistachio cream spread on the side.
FAQ
How long does it take to cook filet mignon in an air fryer?
Air fryer filet mignon usually takes about 10–12 minutes total. That’s for a steak around 1.5 to 2 inches thick, cooked at 400°F. Flip it halfway for even searing. Always use a meat thermometer to check if it’s done the way you like.
What is the best way to cook a fillet steak in an air fryer?
The best way to cook air fryer filet mignon is to preheat your air fryer, pat the steak dry, season it well, and cook it at high heat. Flip it once. Rest it for five minutes after cooking. This keeps the inside juicy and tender.
How long do you cook a 2-inch thick filet mignon?
For a 2-inch thick air fryer filet mignon, aim for about 12 minutes at 400°F, flipping halfway. Medium-rare usually hits at around 130–135°F internally. Letting the meat rest is key to preserving its moisture.
Do I need to flip steak in an air fryer?
Yes, you should flip your air fryer filet mignon once during cooking. This ensures even browning and a consistent crust. It’s a small step, but it makes a big difference.
How to Serve, Store & Reheat
Once you’ve cooked the perfect air fryer filet mignon, you’ll want sides that complement it. Garlic butter, mashed cauliflower, or a roasted veggie mix are all great choices. For something fresh and crunchy, serve it with this pineapple cucumber salad. If you’re feeling cozy, pair it with a keto breakfast bowl for a hearty dinner twist.
Leftovers? No problem. Store your air fryer filet mignon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use your air fryer again. Heat at 350°F for 2–3 minutes. That keeps the texture close to freshly cooked.
Want to freeze it? Yes, you can. Wrap each filet in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Cooking air fryer filet mignon doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you can enjoy a tender, juicy steak any night of the week. Whether it’s a special dinner or a casual meal, this method is reliable and easy to master.
Try this recipe, make it your own, and let us know in the comments how it turned out. What’s your favorite seasoning for filet? Share it — your tip might just make someone else’s dinner unforgettable.
