Want to impress your friends and family with a perfectly grilled filet mignon? You've come to the right place! This guide focuses on speed and simplicity, delivering restaurant-quality results without the restaurant-quality wait. We’ll cover everything from prep to plating, ensuring your filet mignon is cooked to juicy perfection.
Prep Work: Setting the Stage for Success
Before you even think about firing up the grill, let's get organized. This step is crucial for a quick and efficient grilling process.
1. Choosing Your Filet Mignon:
Select a high-quality filet mignon. Look for even marbling throughout the steak – this translates to a more tender and flavorful result. About 1-inch thick is ideal for quick grilling.
2. Pat it Dry:
This is often overlooked, but crucial! Pat your filet mignon completely dry with paper towels. Excess moisture will hinder proper browning and lead to steaming instead of searing.
3. Seasoning is Key:
Keep it simple, yet impactful. Generously season both sides of your steak with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Don't be shy! You can also add a touch of garlic powder or onion powder if desired, but the salt and pepper are the stars of the show.
Grilling Like a Pro: The Fastest Route to Deliciousness
Now for the main event! Here's how to achieve perfectly grilled filet mignon in record time:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Get your grill screaming hot! Aim for high heat – you want those beautiful sear marks.
2. Oil the Grates:
Lightly oil your grill grates to prevent sticking. A high-heat-resistant oil like avocado oil works wonders.
3. Sear to Perfection:
Place the filet mignon directly onto the hot grill grates. Let it sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side to develop a gorgeous crust. Resist the urge to move it around too much!
4. Reduce the Heat (Optional):
If you prefer a more well-done filet mignon, reduce the heat to medium after searing. Continue grilling until the desired internal temperature is reached. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
5. Rest is Essential:
Once cooked, remove the filet mignon from the grill and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Internal Temperature Guide: Achieving Your Desired Doneness
Here’s a quick guide to internal temperatures:
- Rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Medium-Well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F (71°C)
Plating and Serving: The Grand Finale
Slice your rested filet mignon against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve immediately with your favorite sides – roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad all pair beautifully.
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By following these steps, you'll master the art of grilling filet mignon quickly and efficiently. Enjoy!