How Long To Cook A Filet Mignon On Grill
A filet mignon on the grill needs high heat and a short cook time to stay tender and juicy. So how long to cook a filet mignon on grill? For most steaks, plan on 8 to 12 minutes total, turning once at the halfway point.
That range shifts a bit based on thickness and how you like your steak done. Below you will find exact times, temps, and a simple method that works every time.
How Long To Cook A Filet Mignon On Grill
Filet mignon is lean and tender, so it cooks fast. Over direct high heat, a 1.5 inch thick steak needs about 4 to 6 minutes per side. That gives you a total grill time of 8 to 12 minutes.
Use the times below as a starting point. Then check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for a accurate result.
Grill Time Chart By Doneness
These times are for a 1.5 inch thick filet on a grill preheated to 450 to 500 degrees F.
- Rare (120 to 125 F): 3 to 4 minutes per side, 6 to 8 minutes total
- Medium Rare (130 to 135 F): 4 to 5 minutes per side, 8 to 10 minutes total
- Medium (140 to 145 F): 5 to 6 minutes per side, 10 to 12 minutes total
- Medium Well (150 to 155 F): 6 to 7 minutes per side, 12 to 14 minutes total
- Well Done (160 F and up): 8 to 9 minutes per side, 16 to 18 minutes total
Thinner steaks cook faster. A 1 inch filet may need only 3 minutes per side for medium rare. A 2 inch filet can take 6 to 7 minutes per side.
Why Filet Mignon Cooks So Fast
Filet mignon comes from the tenderloin, a muscle that does very little work. That means it has little fat and connective tissue. It stays tender with quick cooking, but it also dries out fast if you overcook it.
Because of this, high heat and a short cook time are the best combo. You get a nice crust outside and a juicy center inside.
Step By Step: Grilling Filet Mignon Perfectly
Follow these steps for a steakhouse quality result at home.
- Take the steaks out of the fridge 30 to 40 minutes before grilling. Room temperature meat cooks more evenly.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Dry meat sears better.
- Season both sides with salt and black pepper. You can also add a little garlic powder or olive oil.
- Preheat your grill to high, about 450 to 500 F. Clean the grates and oil them lightly.
- Place the filets on the grill and close the lid. Leave them alone for 4 to 5 minutes.
- Flip once with tongs. Do not press down on the meat.
- Cook another 4 to 5 minutes for medium rare.
- Check the internal temp with an instant read thermometer.
- Move the steaks to a plate and rest them for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Slice against the grain or serve whole.
Tips For Better Results
- Use a thermometer. It is the only real way to know when your steak is done.
- Do not flip more than once. Constant flipping slows the crust.
- Let the steak rest. Resting keeps the juices in the meat instead of on the plate.
- Add butter at the end. A small pat of butter on top while resting adds richness.
- Avoid cutting into the steak to check doneness. You lose juices and the steak dries out.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Most dry filet mignon comes from two problems: low heat and too much time. If your grill is not hot enough, the steak cooks slowly and turns gray instead of brown.
Another common mistake is skipping the rest. If you cut right away, the juices run out and the meat feels tough. Give it at least 5 minutes.
Also, do not use a fork to flip the steak. A fork pokes holes and lets juice escape. Use tongs instead.
Should You Grill With The Lid Open Or Closed?
Close the lid. A closed grill holds heat and cooks the steak more evenly. It also helps thicker cuts cook through without burning the outside.
If your steak is thin, you can leave the lid open for more control. But for a standard 1.5 inch filet, keep it closed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do You Grill A Filet Mignon For Medium Rare?
About 8 to 10 minutes total over high heat, turning once. Aim for an internal temperature of 130 to 135 F.
Can You Grill Filet Mignon From Frozen?
Yes, but it takes longer. Add about 50 percent more time and cook over medium heat so the outside does not burn before the center thaws.
What Temperature Should The Grill Be For Filet Mignon?
Set your grill to 450 to 500 F for direct high heat. This gives a good sear without overcooking the inside.
How Thick Should Filet Mignon Be For Grilling?
1.5 to 2 inches is ideal. Thinner steaks cook too fast and are easy to overcook.
Do You Need To Marinate Filet Mignon?
No. Filet mignon is already tender. A simple salt, pepper, and oil rub is enough. If you want more flavor, a short 30 minute marinade works fine.
With the right heat and timing, your filet mignon will come off the grill tender and full of flavor. Stick to 8 to 12 minutes for most steaks, check the temp, and always let it rest.