Alana Volkman is a culinary stylist and photographer with a special passion for the art of grilling. Her knack for bringing out the aesthetic appeal of grilled dishes is unparalleled. Alana delights in the challenge of capturing the vibrant allure of grilled cuisine in her photography and eagerly shares her grilling journey and advice.
Hey there! If you're looking to impress your guests with a mouthwatering filet mignon at your 4th of July gathering, you've come to the right place. Grilling filet mignon to perfection requires a little finesse, but with the right method, you'll have a crowd-pleasing dish that will make your celebration unforgettable.
First things first, let's talk about the optimal method for grilling filet mignon. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve that juicy, tender steak:
1. Start with quality filet mignon: To ensure the best results, choose high-quality filet mignon cuts from your local butcher or trusted meat supplier. Look for steaks that are well-marbled and about 1.5 to 2 inches thick. This thickness allows for a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
2. Preheat your grill: Preheating your grill is crucial for achieving that perfect sear. Set your grill to medium-high heat and let it heat up for about 10-15 minutes. This will ensure that the grill grates are hot enough to create those beautiful grill marks and lock in the juices.
3. Season the steaks: Keep it simple and let the natural flavors of the filet mignon shine through. Season the steaks generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add a touch of garlic powder or your favorite steak seasoning for extra flavor.
4. Oil the grill grates: Before placing the steaks on the grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. You can use a high smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil. Simply dip a folded paper towel in the oil and, using tongs, rub it over the grates.
5. Sear the steaks: Place the filet mignon steaks on the preheated grill and close the lid. Let them sear for about 4-5 minutes on the first side. Avoid the temptation to constantly flip the steaks, as this can prevent a good sear from forming. After 4-5 minutes, flip the steaks using tongs and sear for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side.
6. Check for doneness: The cooking time for filet mignon will vary depending on the thickness of the steaks and your desired level of doneness. To check for doneness, use an instant-read meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should read around 135°F (57°C). Keep in mind that the temperature will continue to rise a few degrees as the steaks rest.
7. Let the steaks rest: Once the filet mignon reaches your desired level of doneness, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.
8. Serve and enjoy: Now comes the best part – serving and savoring your perfectly grilled filet mignon! Slice the steaks against the grain and serve them with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. Your guests will be blown away by the deliciousness!
Remember, grilling filet mignon is all about finding that balance between a beautiful sear on the outside and a tender, juicy center. With a little practice and the right technique, you'll become a filet mignon grilling pro in no time.
For more grilling tips, recipes, and inspiration, be sure to check out Grill Matey. We've got a treasure trove of grilling knowledge to help you elevate your outdoor cooking game. Happy grilling and have a fantastic 4th of July celebration!
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