How To Grill Filet Mignon

Grilling filet mignon is a delicious way to enjoy this tender and flavorful cut of beef. With the right techniques and a few simple tips, you can elevate your grilling game and impress your family and friends with a mouthwatering meal. Whether you're a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, mastering the art of grilling filet mignon is sure to make you the hero of your next cookout. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you grill the perfect filet mignon every time.

Choosing the Right Filet Mignon

Before you fire up the grill, it’s important to start with a high-quality cut of meat. When selecting filet mignon, look for steaks that are bright red in color with fine marbling throughout. The marbling, or small streaks of fat, adds flavor and juiciness to the meat. Additionally, choose steaks that are at least 1 ½ inches thick to ensure a juicy and tender result.

Preparing the Filet Mignon

Properly preparing the filet mignon before grilling is essential for achieving a perfect result. Follow these steps to prepare your steaks:

1. Remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the meat to cook more evenly on the grill.
2. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which can prevent proper browning and searing on the grill.
3. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper. For added flavor, consider using a dry rub or marinade of your choice.

Preheating the Grill

Before grilling the filet mignon, it’s important to preheat your grill to ensure even cooking and beautiful grill marks. Follow these steps to preheat your grill:

• Clean the grill grates thoroughly to remove any residue from previous use.
• Turn on the grill and set it to high heat. Close the lid and allow the grill to preheat for 10-15 minutes.
• Once the grill is hot, use a grill brush to oil the grates lightly to prevent the steaks from sticking.

Grilling the Filet Mignon

Now that your grill is preheated and your steaks are ready, it’s time to start grilling. Follow these steps for perfect filet mignon:

1. Place the steaks on the hot grill and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side to create a caramelized crust.
2. After searing, move the steaks to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat to medium. Continue grilling for an additional 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time to your desired level of doneness.
3. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steaks reach an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium, or 150-155°F for medium-well.
4. Once the steaks reach the desired doneness, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.

Serving the Grilled Filet Mignon

Now that your filet mignon is perfectly grilled, it’s time to serve and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Consider these serving suggestions to complement the rich flavor of the steak:

• Top the filet mignon with a pat of compound butter or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
• Serve the steaks with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
• Pair the filet mignon with a bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, to enhance the dining experience.

With these tips and techniques, you can confidently grill filet mignon to perfection and treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable dining experience. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual weekend cookout, grilling filet mignon is a surefire way to elevate your culinary skills and savor the exquisite flavor of this premium cut of beef.