Bites by Eydt! Serves grilled filet mignon cooked to perfection. Our method adds a slight char to seal in the juices, delivering a tender, flavorful steak. Sliced and served on fresh watercress, our filet offers a mix of doneness levels—from rare to medium-rare—pleasing every palate. Here’s how we make grilled filet mignon a standout dish and tips you can use at home.
Have you ever wondered what makes a grilled filet mignon so tender and juicy? The secret lies in both the cut and the cooking technique. Filet mignon is one of the most tender cuts of beef, prized for its buttery texture. Grilling it right brings out its natural flavor and locks in the juices for a steak experience that is hard to beat.
At Bites by Eydt, we have perfected the art of grilling filet mignon to create a dish that feels special but is simple to enjoy. This blog shares practical tips and tricks to help you grill your own filet mignon with confidence.
Choosing the Right Cut for Grilled Filet Mignon
The journey to a great grilled filet mignon starts at the butcher’s counter. Filet mignon comes from the tenderloin, a small muscle that doesn’t get much exercise. This results in meat that is soft and lean.
Look for cuts that are about 1.5 to 2 inches thick. Thicker cuts hold juices better and allow for a nice crust outside while keeping the inside tender. Smaller or thinner pieces cook too quickly and risk drying out.
Bites by Eydt! selects only the best cuts to ensure each steak delivers the perfect texture. Starting with quality meat makes a big difference in the final result.
Preparing Your Steak Before Grilling
Preparation is key to getting the most from your grilled filet mignon. First, bring the steak to room temperature. This helps it cook evenly and reduces the risk of a cold center.
Next, seasoning should be simple but effective. At Bites by Eydt, we use just salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavor of the beef. Avoid heavy marinades that can mask the filet’s delicate taste.
Pat the steak dry before seasoning. Removing excess moisture helps create a better crust when it hits the grill. A dry surface sears more quickly, locking in the juices.
Grill Setup and Temperature
The grill needs to be hot to get that perfect sear on the filet mignon. Preheat your grill to high heat. A hot grill ensures a nice char, which adds texture and flavor.
We recommend using a two-zone fire setup: one side with direct heat for searing and the other with indirect heat for finishing the cooking. This method gives you more control and helps avoid overcooking.
We start by placing the filet over direct heat to develop a slight char. Then, we move it to indirect heat to cook through without drying out.
Timing and Doneness for the Perfect Grilled Filet Mignon
Cooking times depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired doneness. Filet mignon cooks fast, so close attention is needed.
We cook the tip of the filet to medium, the main part to medium-rare, and leave the end slightly more rare. This mix of doneness offers guests a variety of flavors and textures in each bite.
For home cooks, aim for:
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature. Insert it into the thickest part for accuracy. Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after it’s off the grill.
Resting Your Steak for Maximum Juiciness
After grilling, resting the filet mignon is a crucial step often overlooked. Let the steak rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite moist and flavorful. Cutting the steak too soon lets precious juices escape, drying out the meat.
We slice the rested filet and serve it on a bed of fresh watercress sprigs. The watercress adds a peppery bite that pairs beautifully with the rich steak.
Simple Sides to Complement Grilled Filet Mignon
Pairing the steak with the right sides can make your meal complete. Keep sides simple to let the filet shine.
We often serve grilled vegetables or light salads alongside the filet. Options like asparagus, roasted baby potatoes, or a fresh garden salad work well.
A classic sauce, such as a red wine reduction or a light béarnaise, adds flavor without overpowering the steak. But many guests enjoy the filet on its own because the grilling method brings out so much natural taste.
Tips for Grilling Filet Mignon at Home
Grilling filet mignon doesn’t require fancy equipment or complicated steps. Follow these practical tips to get great results:
- Choose thick cuts to keep the meat juicy.
- Let the steak sit out before grilling for even cooking.
- Season simply with salt and pepper.
- Use a hot grill and two-zone setup for better control.
- Watch the steak closely; filet cooks fast.
- Use a thermometer to check doneness precisely.
- Rest the steak before slicing to keep it juicy.
These tips match the techniques used by Bites by Eydt! to serve perfectly grilled filet mignon every time.
Why Grilled Filet Mignon Works for Any Occasion
Grilled filet mignon fits many occasions—from casual backyard cookouts to formal dinners. It’s elegant yet approachable.
Bites by Eydt! serves grilled filet mignon at events where guests appreciate a high-quality, flavorful steak. It’s a dish that looks impressive on the plate but doesn’t need fancy sauces or sides to stand out.
Because the filet is lean and tender, it appeals to a wide range of tastes. This makes it a smart choice for gatherings where guests might have varied preferences.
Make Grilled Filet Mignon Your Next Favorite Steak
Grilled filet mignon offers a delicious, tender steak experience that’s hard to match. By starting with the right cut, seasoning simply, managing grill heat carefully, and letting the steak rest, you can create juicy, flavorful results.
We bring these principles to every event we cater, making sure guests enjoy a perfect steak cooked with care. Try these tips next time you grill filet mignon at home or plan your next event with us.
All set to impress your guests with perfectly grilled filet mignon? Get in touch with Bites by Eydt! to explore catering options and bring a fresh, flavorful steak to your table.
