Grilled Filet Mignon

Stay home and enjoy the finer things: Grilled Filet Mignon is easier than you think!

Why spend extra money, gas, and time going out the next time you want a special meal? With our easy Grilled Filet Mignon, you can enjoy a sumptuous but simple meal at home. Whether it’s for a birthday, special occasion, or just a weekend meal you want to savor, sometimes it’s nice to be able to do it in the comfort of your own home. Grilled Filet Mignon is a great option. Even if you’ve never grilled steak at home, this is a failproof method for cooking them to perfection.

But wait, you may be thinking, I live in a tiny apartment with no outdoor space for grilling. Or maybe you don’t own a charcoal or gas grill. Don’t worry. An indoor grill pan you use on your stove works beautifully for this recipe. When I use my indoor grill pan, I just turn on the exhaust fan over my range and crack a window.

Besides the convenience of cooking at home, you will love the flavor of this Grilled Filet Mignon. Of course, the cut of steak helps, as it’s one of the best for flavor and texture. But the short cooking time allows you to get a savory crust on the outside and whatever level of doneness you want on the inside. Whether it’s medium-rare or well done, the steak stays tender and flavorful on the inside.

What exactly IS filet mignon?

Filet Mignon has a reputation for being, shall we say, a little extra—as in, extra tender, extra rich, and definitely extra expensive. So why is that? Location and supply, in short. The location of the tenderloin tip that makes up a filet mignon steak is small and not as easily trimmable as other parts of the cow. Since it’s in a section of the cow that doesn’t get utilized much, it’s ultra tender. The best thing to do is watch for sales at your local grocery store or butcher and buy ahead to freeze for when you want to grill them.

Ingredients

2 (10 ounces each) tenderloin beef filets, approximately 2 inches thick
1 teaspoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped
1/2 tablespoon garlic, minced

How to Make Grilled Filet Mignon

Step 1: Preheat your grill to HIGH (e.g., 450°F).

Step 2: Brush each filet mignon with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Place the filets on the hot grill and cook for 3-4 minutes (rare), 4-5 minutes (medium-rare), 5-6 minutes (medium) on one side, without moving them to get a good sear.

Step 4: Flip the steaks and grill for the same amount of time.

Step 5: While the steaks are grilling, mix together the softened butter, chopped rosemary, tarragon, and minced garlic in a small bowl.

Step 6: Once the steaks are done, transfer them to a plate and immediately top each with a dollop of the prepared herb butter.

Step 7: Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

FAQs & Tips

How do I prep and store the filet mignon?

Grilled Filet Mignon steaks are best enjoyed right after you make them (allowing them to rest for a few minutes, of course). If you want, you can get a jumpstart and prepare the herb butter topping ahead of time. It can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Why don’t you marinate Filet Mignon like you do other steaks?

Filet Mignon doesn’t need to be marinated like other steaks because it is naturally so tender. Marinating doesn’t just add flavor; it breaks down any toughness in the meat. No need for that with these steaks! The herb butter topping is a common way to add a little flavor burst to the cooked steak.

Let the steaks sit!

Whenever possible, let the steaks sit out for up to 30 minutes at room temperature before prepping them and heating up the grill. This allows for maximum tenderness and makes a good thing even better. Of course, filet mignon will still be delicious if you don’t have time for this step, but it’s a great idea if you can afford the time.

Serving Suggestions

Filet Mignon is such a classy main dish–but classy here doesn’t have to mean fussy. Simple sides are perfect. A Caesar salad and baked potato are enough, for sure. On a summer evening, try our Caprese Pasta Salad with these steaks. Or, for a spin on the baked potato, our Stacked Potatoes make for a lovely presentation.