Filet mignon, a tender and lean cut of beef, is a culinary delight that can be cooked to perfection on a Blackstone grill. The key to achieving a mouth-watering filet mignon lies in understanding the cooking time and techniques involved. In this article, we will delve into the world of filet mignon cooking on a Blackstone grill, exploring the ideal cooking times, temperatures, and methods to ensure a succulent and flavorful dish.
Understanding Filet Mignon
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of filet mignon. This cut of beef comes from the small end of the tenderloin and is known for its buttery texture and mild flavor. Filet mignon is a lean cut, which means it has less marbling (fat content) compared to other cuts of beef. This leanness makes it prone to drying out if overcooked, emphasizing the importance of precise cooking times and temperatures.
Choosing the Right Filet Mignon
When selecting filet mignon for your Blackstone grill, look for the following characteristics:
- Thickness: Opt for filets that are at least 1-1.5 inches thick to ensure even cooking.
- Color: Choose filets with a rich red color, indicating a higher quality and tenderness.
- Marbling: While filet mignon is a lean cut, look for slight marbling, which will enhance the flavor and tenderness.
Cooking Filet Mignon on a Blackstone Grill
Cooking filet mignon on a Blackstone grill requires attention to temperature, cooking time, and technique. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieve a perfectly cooked filet mignon:
Preheating the Blackstone Grill
Preheat your Blackstone grill to high heat (around 450°F to 500°F). Ensure the grates are clean and brush them with oil to prevent sticking.
Seasoning the Filet Mignon
Season the filet mignon with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Let the filet sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
Searing the Filet Mignon
Place the filet mignon on the preheated Blackstone grill and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the filet. You want to achieve a nice crust on the filet. Use tongs or a spatula to flip the filet, being careful not to press down on the meat, which can squeeze out juices.
Finishing the Filet Mignon
After searing the filet mignon, reduce the heat to medium-low (around 300°F to 350°F) and continue cooking to your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the filet.
| Desired Level of Doneness | Internal Temperature |
| — | — |
| Rare | 120°F – 130°F |
| Medium-rare | 130°F – 135°F |
| Medium | 140°F – 145°F |
| Medium-well | 150°F – 155°F |
| Well-done | 160°F – 170°F |
Cooking Times for Filet Mignon on a Blackstone Grill
The cooking time for filet mignon on a Blackstone grill will depend on the thickness of the filet and the desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines for cooking times:
- 1-inch thick filet: 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, 7-9 minutes for medium, and 9-11 minutes for medium-well.
- 1.5-inch thick filet: 7-9 minutes for medium-rare, 9-11 minutes for medium, and 11-13 minutes for medium-well.
Tips and Variations for Cooking Filet Mignon on a Blackstone Grill
To take your filet mignon cooking to the next level, consider the following tips and variations:
- Use a cast-iron or stainless steel pan: If you don’t have a Blackstone grill, you can cook filet mignon in a cast-iron or stainless steel pan on your stovetop or in your oven.
- Add aromatics: Add aromatics like garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the pan while cooking the filet mignon for added flavor.
- Try different seasonings: Experiment with different seasoning blends, such as a dry rub or a marinade, to add unique flavors to your filet mignon.
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring the filet mignon is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Filet Mignon on a Blackstone Grill
To avoid common mistakes when cooking filet mignon on a Blackstone grill, keep the following in mind:
- Overcooking: Filet mignon is prone to drying out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the filet is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Pressing down on the meat: Resist the temptation to press down on the filet mignon with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make the filet tough.
- Not letting the filet rest: After cooking the filet mignon, let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, making the filet more tender and flavorful.
By following these guidelines and tips, you’ll be well on your way to cooking filet mignon to perfection on your Blackstone grill. Remember to always use a meat thermometer, cook to the right temperature, and let the filet rest to ensure a succulent and flavorful dish. Happy grilling!
What is the ideal temperature for cooking filet mignon on a Blackstone grill?
The ideal temperature for cooking filet mignon on a Blackstone grill depends on the level of doneness you prefer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130-135°F (54-57°C), while medium should be around 140-145°F (60-63°C). It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect temperature.
To achieve the ideal temperature, preheat your Blackstone grill to high heat (around 400-450°F or 200-230°C). Once the grill is hot, place the filet mignon on the grates and sear for 2-3 minutes per side. After searing, reduce the heat to medium-low (around 300-350°F or 150-175°C) and continue cooking to your desired level of doneness.
How do I season filet mignon for grilling on a Blackstone grill?
Seasoning filet mignon is crucial to enhance its flavor when grilling on a Blackstone grill. You can use a simple seasoning blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or get creative with other seasonings like paprika, thyme, or rosemary. Make sure to season the filet mignon liberally on both sides, allowing the seasonings to penetrate the meat evenly.
When seasoning, it’s also essential to let the filet mignon sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the seasonings to absorb into the meat, and the filet mignon to cook more evenly. You can also add a bit of oil to the filet mignon before grilling to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
What is the best way to oil the grates on my Blackstone grill before cooking filet mignon?
Oiling the grates on your Blackstone grill is crucial to prevent the filet mignon from sticking and to promote even browning. The best way to oil the grates is to use a paper towel dipped in oil and brush it evenly across the grates. You can use any type of oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or avocado oil.
When oiling the grates, make sure to do it when the grill is hot, as this will help the oil penetrate the grates evenly. Also, be careful not to use too much oil, as this can create a flare-up when cooking the filet mignon. A thin, even layer of oil is all you need to achieve perfect grates.
How long does it take to cook filet mignon on a Blackstone grill?
The cooking time for filet mignon on a Blackstone grill depends on the thickness of the filet and the level of doneness you prefer. As a general guideline, a 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick filet mignon will take around 8-12 minutes to cook to medium-rare, while a 1.5-inch (3.8 cm) thick filet mignon will take around 12-15 minutes.
It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect internal temperature. Also, make sure to flip the filet mignon frequently to achieve even cooking and to prevent burning. You can also use the finger test to check the doneness of the filet mignon, where a medium-rare filet will feel soft and squishy to the touch.
Can I cook filet mignon to well-done on a Blackstone grill?
While it’s possible to cook filet mignon to well-done on a Blackstone grill, it’s not recommended. Filet mignon is a tender cut of meat that becomes dry and tough when overcooked. Cooking it to well-done can result in a less flavorful and less tender final product.
If you prefer your filet mignon well-done, it’s better to cook it using a different method, such as oven roasting or pan-frying. However, if you still want to cook it on a Blackstone grill, make sure to cook it to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
How do I prevent filet mignon from sticking to the grates on my Blackstone grill?
Preventing filet mignon from sticking to the grates on your Blackstone grill is crucial to achieve a perfect sear and to prevent the filet from tearing. To prevent sticking, make sure to oil the grates evenly before cooking, as mentioned earlier. You can also pat the filet mignon dry with a paper towel before grilling to remove excess moisture.
Additionally, make sure the filet mignon is at room temperature before grilling, as this will help it cook more evenly and prevent sticking. You can also use a small amount of oil on the filet mignon itself before grilling to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
How do I let filet mignon rest after cooking on a Blackstone grill?
Letting filet mignon rest after cooking on a Blackstone grill is essential to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax. To let the filet mignon rest, remove it from the grill and place it on a plate or cutting board. Tent the filet mignon with aluminum foil to keep it warm and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
During this time, the juices will redistribute, and the filet mignon will retain its tenderness and flavor. After resting, slice the filet mignon against the grain and serve immediately. You can also add a bit of sauce or seasoning to the filet mignon during the resting period to enhance its flavor.