Filet mignon is the crown jewel of steaks, known for its tender, buttery texture and rich flavor. Yet, its lean profile demands precision, especially on the grill, where high heat can quickly turn this premium cut into a dry, overdone mistake. Unlike higher-fat cuts such as ribeye, filet mignon requires a careful approach to bring out its best flavors and texture.
The good news? Learning how to grill filet mignon without drying it out is easier than you think. With the right technique and a little attention to detail, you can craft steakhouse-quality results right in your backyard. Impress your family and dinner guests next time you’re hosting a special dinner or cookout.
What Makes Filet Mignon Tricky To Grill?
Filet mignon is a meat with lean composition. This means it lacks the intramuscular fat that keeps meat moist during cooking. This makes it far less forgiving to cook, especially on a grill. Its smaller, thicker size means it cooks faster than other steaks, leaving little margin for error when trying to nail that perfect internal temperature. The lean profile and rapid cooking time demand precision at every step.
Chefs and home cooks prize filet mignon for its exceptional tenderness and delicate flavor, but this also makes it less forgiving on the grill. To get the most from this cut, you’ll want to balance high heat for that crust with careful timing to keep the center juicy and tender.
Essential Equipment and Ingredients
Success with filet mignon starts with having the right tools and ingredients at your disposal. While the ingredient list remains refreshingly simple, each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect result.
Equipment you'll need:
- Gas or charcoal grill capable of reaching high temperatures
- Grill tongs
- Instant-read meat thermometer
Ingredients for perfect filet mignon:
- Filet mignon steaks, 1.5 to 2 inches thick
- Kosher salt for proper seasoning penetration
- Black pepper
- High-heat cooking oil
- Optional finishing touches: fresh herbs, garlic, compound butter
The key to sourcing quality steaks is finding a reputable supplier. When looking for filet mignon for sale, choose thick-cut steaks from a trusted butcher or premium meat purveyor, like The Linz Shop, who can guarantee proper aging and handling.
Step-by-Step Grilling Method
Step 1: Bring Steaks to Room Temperature
Remove your filet mignon from the refrigerator 30 to 45 minutes before cooking. This step is crucial for achieving even cooking from edge to center. A common problem beginners face is their meat being cold in the center, surrounded by an overcooked exterior. Bringing the filet mignon to room temperature before cooking helps prevent this issue.
Step 2: Season Generously and Strategically
Apply kosher salt and black pepper liberally to all surfaces of each steak. Don't hold back—the salt will help develop flavor while creating the foundation for an excellent crust.
For best results, season at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the salt to penetrate the meat. If you're short on time, season immediately before grilling.
Step 3: Prepare Your Grill for Two-Zone Cooking
Preheat your grill to create distinct zones for searing and gentle finishing. For gas grills, heat one side to high (450-500°F) while keeping the other side at medium or off entirely. Charcoal users should bank coals to one side to create hot and cooler zones.
Clean and oil your grates thoroughly to prevent sticking. Use tongs and an oil-soaked paper towel to coat the grates just before placing the steaks.
Step 4: Execute the Sear and Move Method
Place seasoned steaks over the hottest part of your grill. Sear for 2-3 minutes without moving them. Leaving the meat undisturbed allows a proper crust to develop. Flip once and sear the second side for another 2-3 minutes.
After achieving a good sear on both sides, move the steaks to the cooler zone of your grill. This indirect heat will gently bring them to your desired internal temperature without burning the exterior.
Target internal temperatures:
- Rare: 120-125°F
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (recommended for filet mignon)
- Medium: 140-145°F (approaching the upper limit for this cut)
Remove steaks from the grill about 5°F below your target temperature, as they'll continue cooking during the resting period.
Step 5: Rest for Maximum Juiciness
Transfer grilled steaks to a warm plate and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes. Allowing the meat to rest gives the juices time to spread evenly, making every bite juicy and full of flavor.
Resist the temptation to cut immediately. Those few minutes of patience make the difference between a good steak and an exceptional one.
Advanced Techniques for Perfect Results
The reverse sear method works exceptionally well for thick filet mignon steaks. Start by cooking steaks over indirect heat until they reach about 10°F below your target temperature, then finish with a high-heat sear for crust development.
Consider using a cast-iron skillet directly on your grill grates for even heat distribution and superior crust formation, while still benefiting from the grill’s smokiness. Preheat the skillet on the grill, add a small amount of high-heat oil, then sear your steaks in the pan.
For an elegant finishing touch, prepare compound butter with minced garlic, fresh herbs, and lemon zest.
Common Mistakes That Ruin Great Steaks
Never use a fork to flip or pick up your filet mignon. A fork will puncture the meat, leaving precious juices to escape during cooking. Instead, always use tongs throughout the grilling process.
Overcooking represents the culinary sin of filet mignon preparation. This lean cut becomes tough and dry when cooked beyond medium. On the other hand, cook it properly, and you’ll unlock everything that makes filet mignon so special.
A filet mignon is a true indulgence, with its buttery tenderness and unrivaled flavor. The key to nailing how to grill a filet mignon without drying it out starts with the quality of your meat.
That’s why The Linz Shop is the perfect choice. Our exceptional cuts of filet mignon are delivered straight to your doorstep. Talk about steakhouse-quality meat right at home! This is your chance to take a little splurge and experience the prestige of grilling the best filet mignon available. Treat yourself and make your next meal unforgettable with The Linz Shop.