Welcome to our guide on grilling the perfect filet mignon. If you’re wondering how long to grill a filet mignon that’s two inches thick, you’re in the right spot. We’ll give you the needed cooking times for delicious results.
Key Takeaways:
- Cooking a 2-inch thick filet mignon requires precise timing.
- Choosing the right cut of filet mignon is crucial for a flavorful outcome.
- Properly preparing and seasoning the steak enhances its taste and tenderness.
- Taking the time to preheat and prepare your grill ensures even cooking.
- Exploring different grilling techniques can enhance the flavor and texture of your filet mignon.
Selecting the Right Filet Mignon
Picking the right cut of meat for your filet mignon is crucial. The steak’s quality affects its taste and how tender it will be. Here, you’ll find tips to pick the best filet mignon for grilling.
1. Consider the Grade
Look at the beef’s grade when choosing your steak. Prime grade beef is top-notch, with great tenderness and marbling. You can also pick choice grade, which is still flavorful and tender.
2. Look for Color and Texture
Check the steak’s color and feel before buying. You want a bright red steak that feels smooth. Don’t pick steaks that look gray or brown. This could mean they’re old or not handled right.
3. Check for Marbling
Marbling is the fat in the meat. Go for a steak with marbling. It makes the steak flavorful and juicy. The fat melts when you grill it, giving the steak a rich taste.
4. Thickness Matters
Choose steaks that are 1.5 to 2 inches thick. Thicker steaks grill better. They get a perfect outer cook and stay juicy inside.
5. Certified Angus Beef® Quality
Think about getting your steak from Certified Angus Beef®. They set high standards for marbling, tenderness, and flavor. It means a better grilling experience every time.
By using these tips, you’re sure to find the right filet mignon for grilling. The secret is selecting quality beef that’s thick and well-marbled. This ensures it grills well.
You now know how to pick the perfect filet mignon. Next, we’ll talk about preparing the steak for grilling. We’ll focus on how to make it flavorful and tender.
Prepping the Filet Mignon
Getting your filet mignon ready before grilling is key to making it taste amazing. A few easy steps can make your steak more flavorful and tender.
First, season your filet mignon. Mix salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you like. Then, gently press this mix onto each side of the steak.
If you’re up for more flavor, think about marinating the steak. Pick a marinade that matches the steak’s flavor well. You might like a savory soy sauce and garlic mix, or a zesty blend with balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard. Put the steak in a bag or dish to marinate. Let it sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to overnight.
Before you grill, let the steak warm up to room temperature. Letting it sit out for 30-60 minutes will help it cook evenly. This ensures your steak is grilled perfectly, juicy inside and charred outside.
After seasoning, marinating, and warming your steak, you’re ready to grill. Look at the next part for tips on how to prepare your grill for the filet mignon.
Preparing the Grill
Now you’ve picked the perfect filet mignon, let’s get the grill ready for an amazing experience. Setting up the grill right is key to tasty results. Here’s how to make sure your grill is set to perfectly cook that filet mignon.
1. Preheating the Grill
First, you need to preheat your grill. Getting it hot before you start means you can sear the steak well and get those attractive grill marks. For gas grills, turn all burners high and close the lid. Let it heat up for about 10-15 minutes. If you’re using charcoal, light it up. Wait till the coals are covered in white ash. That means they’re ready.
2. Cleaning the Grill
Having a clean grill stops old flavors or bits from messing up your filet mignon’s taste. Scrub the grates with a grill brush to clear any leftover food or debris. It’s smart to also wipe the grates with a damp cloth or paper towel. This makes sure they’re free of any grease left behind.
3. Arranging Charcoal or Gas for Optimal Heat Distribution
With gas grills, make sure the burners spread the heat evenly. It helps avoid spots that could cook the meat unevenly. Use a two-zone setup for charcoal grills. Put charcoal on one side for a hot zone and leave the other side empty for indirect grilling. This way, you can sear the steak on high heat, then let it finish cooking on a cooler part. That helps get it just right.
Your grill is now ready after preheating, cleaning, and setting it up properly. Next, we’ll look into cooking techniques for the filet mignon. We’ll show you different ways to grill that will bring out the best flavor and tenderness in your steak.
Cooking Techniques for Filet Mignon
Grilling filet mignon the right way can change its flavor and tenderness. We’ll look at methods that make your steak even more delicious.
Direct Grilling
Direct grilling is great for filet mignon. It means cooking the steak right over the fire. This gets you a charred outside and a juicy inside.
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat.
- Season your filet mignon with grilling techniques for filet mignon Imageseasonings you like. Let the steak sit out for 20-30 minutes for even cooking.
- Put the steak right on the grill over the fire. Cook it for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Change the time for how you like your steak.
- Check the inside temperature is 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare with a meat thermometer.
- After cooking it how you like, take the steak off the grill. Let it sit a few minutes before serving. This makes the steak juicier and tastier.
Indirect Grilling
Indirect grilling is great for filet mignon too. It cooks the steak away from the fire. This slow method is good for thick cuts or if you like gentle cooking.
- Set up your grill for indirect cooking. Turn on half the burners or pile coals on one side.
- Season your filet mignon with grilling techniques for filet mignon Imageseasonings you like.
- Put the steak on the grill’s cooler side, away from fire.
- Cover the grill. Let the steak cook for about 15-20 minutes per inch of thickness. Or until it’s as done as you like.
- Use a thermometer to check it reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
- When it’s done, take the steak off the grill. Let it rest a few minutes before serving.
Trying different grilling methods lets you make your steak just right. Whether you like fast and hot direct grilling, or the slow cook of indirect grilling, these skills will improve your filet mignon. Enjoy the taste and tenderness.
Grill Times for 2-Inch Thick Filet Mignon
The key part is finding the perfect time to grill your 2-inch thick filet mignon. The needed cooking time changes based on how you like your steak. We’ll guide you through each step for rare, medium-rare, medium, or well-done steak.
To get your steak just right, use a meat thermometer. This lets you control how much it cooks and avoids it being too raw or burnt. The thickness of your steak plays a big role in how long it’ll need to cook. Adjust the time based on this.
Rare
If you like your filet mignon rare with a cool red center, aim for 125°F to 130°F inside. This makes it tender and juicy. Cook it on medium-high heat for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until it’s as done as you like.
Medium-Rare
For a medium-rare steak with a warm red center, go for an internal temp of 135°F to 140°F. You’ll get a firmer but still tender steak. Grill it for about 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until it hits the right temperature.
Medium
A medium steak with a pink and warm center needs to be 145°F to 150°F inside. It’s still tender and juicy but more cooked. Grill for 7 to 8 minutes each side, or until it’s done to your liking.
Well-Done
For a well-done filet mignon with no pink, aim for 160°F to 165°F inside. It’ll be fully cooked and firmer. Cook for about 8 to 9 minutes on each side, or until the right temperature is reached.
Remember, these grill times are just estimates. Things like grill heat, steak thickness, and personal taste can change them. Always use the internal temp to guide you to the perfect steak.
Now you know how to grill your 2-inch thick filet mignon perfectly for each doneness level. You’re all set to make an amazing grilled steak that will wow everyone. Next, we’ll talk about how to rest and serve your steak right.
Resting and Serving Your Grilled Filet Mignon
After grilling your juicy filet mignon, it’s important to let it rest. This step keeps the steak tender and flavorful. So, wait a bit before you cut into it!
Resting makes the steak juicy and evenly cooked. During this time, it gets more moist and tender.
Let your filet mignon rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This time lets the juices settle and makes the meat tender.
While your steak rests, get your serving plate and sides ready. A good presentation makes the dish even more enjoyable.
Serving Tips for an Impressive Presentation
- Plating: Serve your steak on a warm plate for a fancy touch. This keeps it hot and looks nice.
- Garnish: Decorate with fresh herbs like rosemary for color and taste. This makes your steak look and taste better.
- Side dishes: Add tasty sides like veggies, mashed potatoes, or salad. Pick ones that go well with your steak.
- Sauces: Offer sauces like peppercorn to enhance the steak’s flavor. They make the meal more luxurious.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your steak. Taking time to rest and serve it well matters as much as grilling. Savor each bite and the praise for a perfectly cooked filet mignon!
Conclusion
Congratulations! You now know how to grill filet mignon perfectly with our guide. Follow the cooking times, prep your steak well, and use the right techniques. You’ll make a delicious meal that will wow your guests.
Getting the perfect grilled filet mignon is about being precise and paying attention. Choose the best cut, season it well, and get your grill just right. Our guide helps you, whether you want your steak rare or well-done.
Now, light up your grill and take in the amazing smell. Enjoy your tasty grilled filet mignon! Use these tips to boost your cooking skills and make every meal special. Your journey in cooking awaits.
