How to Cook the Perfect Traeger Filet Mignon

Filet mignon is a premium cut of beef known for its incredible tenderness. It is cut from the tenderloin, a muscle that runs along the spine of the animal. This cut is highly prized for its soft texture and delicate flavor, making it a favorite among steak lovers.

Other Common Names

• Filet
• Fillet
• Tenderloin Filet
• Tenderloin Steak
• Tournedos (Tenderloin Tips)

Primal Cut: Loin Primal

Cooking Methods and Tips

Filet mignon is typically cooked using high-heat methods to sear the outside while maintaining a tender interior. Common cooking methods include grilling, broiling, reverse sear, and sous vide.

General Cooking Recommendations

Filet mignon should be cooked over very high heat to achieve a sear on the outside while keeping the internal temperature no more than 135°F for medium-rare. Overcooking can result in loss of tenderness. Due to its mild flavor, it is often enhanced with a pan sauce or bacon wrap.

How to Cook Filet Mignon on a Traeger Grill

1. Preheat your Traeger to its highest temperature.
2. Rub the steaks with a butter and herb mixture.
3. Wrap the filet with a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.
4. Grill for 5 to 8 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.

Internal Temperatures for Filet Mignon

• Rare: 120-130°F
• Medium-rare: 130-135°F
• Medium: 135-145°F
• Medium-well: 145-155°F
• Well-done: 155-165°F

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Filet Mignon a Good Cut? Yes, it is one of the most sought-after and expensive cuts due to its tenderness. However, it lacks the intramuscular fat (marbling) that gives other cuts like ribeye their rich flavor.

How Much Does Filet Mignon Cost? Expect to pay between $12 to $20 per pound, making it one of the most expensive cuts of beef.

How Do You Know When Filet Mignon is Done? Filet mignon is best when the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare. Overcooking can make the meat tough and chewy.

What is Filet Mignon Best For? Filet mignon is ideal for grilling and pairing with sauces to add flavor. Its extreme tenderness is its standout feature.

Are Beef Tenderloin, Filet, and Filet Mignon the Same Thing? Beef tenderloin is the entire muscle, while filet mignon is a specific cut from the tenderloin. The terms filet and tenderloin steak are often used interchangeably.

Can Filet Mignon be Cooked from Frozen? Yes, it can be cooked from frozen by cooking over high heat for 5 to 8 minutes per side.

Interesting Facts

• Filet mignon is cut from the psoas major, the most tender muscle on the animal.
• The term "filet mignon" comes from French, but in France, it often refers to pork tenderloin.
• The French use different names for various sections of the tenderloin: "Tournedos," "Châteaubriand," and "biftek."

Nutritional Facts

According to the USDA, one filet mignon steak contains 236 calories, 36.5 grams of protein, and 9.9 grams of fat.

Recipes

1. Seasonal Filet Mignon

   • Rich, tender, and packed with wood-fired flavor.

2. Garlic Parmesan Grilled Filet Mignon

   • A party in your mouth with a tender, heavenly taste.

3. Traeger Filet Mignon

   • Perfect for a luxurious date night dinner, providing a tender, succulent piece of grilled beef.

By understanding these aspects of filet mignon, you can appreciate why it is such a coveted cut of beef and how best to prepare it to enjoy its unique qualities.