Simple Tips to Reheat Filet Mignon Perfectly
Filet mignon is like the king of steaks because it’s super tender and fancy. People love it, but it can be expensive. Whether you make it at home or order it in a restaurant, it’s a top-notch choice.
But here’s the catch – cooking it right or reheating it can be tricky. A perfectly cooked filet mignon is so soft and flavorful that it feels like it melts in your mouth. But when you try to warm up leftovers, it often turns hard and disappointing, like a rock!
You’ve probably experienced that frustration when you remember how good it used to taste. How did it change so quickly in just a day in the fridge?
Good news! You can reheat filet mignon without making it dry and tough. Stick around to learn how!
Quick Notes
Simple yet effective methods for reheating filet mignon to perfection, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful. Learn about oven, stovetop, and air fryer techniques, along with essential tips for retaining moisture and enhancing taste.
Understanding Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is a special kind of steak. It comes from the small tip of the tenderloin, which is a part of the cow. It’s one of the fanciest and priciest cuts of steak because it’s really tender and there’s not much of it on each cow, only about 2-3%.
Here’s a fun fact: Sometimes, it’s not just by itself on your plate. It can also be part of another cut called the T-bone. The T-bone has two parts, one is the big strip steak, and the other is the filet mignon. So, if you can’t decide which one you want, you can go for a T-bone steak and enjoy both of them!
The Best Way to Reheat Filet Mignon: Oven Method
Your best bet for reheating filet mignon is the oven. While there are quicker methods like stovetop or microwave, we’re focusing on the tastiest outcome.
Using the oven takes a bit more time but produces excellent results. Stick around for our recommended steps, and we’ll even share a pro tip – searing it in a hot skillet at the end for added flavor.
- Set your oven to 250°F (120°C).
- If you have a wire rack, use it in a baking pan to catch drips. A pan alone works also.
- Bake the steaks for around 30 minutes, aiming for an internal temperature of 110°F (43°C). Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy. If you skip searing, you can finish cooking them here, but they may dry out more.
- Pro tip: After reaching 110°F, remove them from the oven, pat them dry with a paper towel, and get ready to sear. The searing time depends on the steak’s size or thickness.
- Heat a bit of oil in a skillet on high until it smokes.
- Sear each side of the steaks for 60-90 seconds.
- Let the steaks rest for a few minutes before serving.
If you follow these suggestions, your reheated filet mignon will be tasty. It won’t change its doneness much, so it’ll still be delicious!
Other Reheating Options
If you want the tastiest result, stick with the oven and searing method. But if you’re in a hurry, we’ve got a few faster options. Let’s quickly go over these different methods in case you need something speedy.
Reheating Filet Mignon on the Stovetop with Beef Broth
To reheat your filet mignon using a skillet, you’ll need some beef broth to keep it moist. It helps to maintain its freshness and flavor, preventing that dry or rubbery texture that reheated steak can sometimes have. Here’s how to do it:
- Warm up some beef broth in a skillet until it’s gently bubbling.
- Place the filet mignon in the pan.
- Cook the steak for about a minute on each side, adjusting the time based on your steak’s thickness.
It’s pretty straightforward! The key here is using a bit of beef broth to keep the moisture intact and avoid drying out during reheating.
Reheating Filet Mignon with an Air Fryer
An air fryer is excellent for reheating filet mignon for several reasons.
Firstly, air fryers circulate hot air, ensuring the steak is heated evenly, avoiding a burnt exterior and a cold inside.
Secondly, they’re fast and handy, perfect for busy cooks needing a quick dinner solution. Lastly, air fryers offer a healthier cooking option since they don’t need oil for a crispy finish.
Moreover, the air fryer helps keep the natural juices and flavors of the steak intact, unlike microwaving or baking. So your reheated filet mignon will taste just as juicy and delicious as when first cooked.
Preparing and Reheating Filet Mignon in the Air Fryer
Let your filet mignon sit at room temperature for at least an hour before reheating in the air fryer for even heating.
Trim away any excess fat or tough parts from the steak, and lightly season it with salt and pepper. You can add extra seasonings or sauces but don’t overdo it because the air fryer heats everything evenly.
Marinate the steak in a mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours to boost flavor.
Now, here’s the step-by-step guide to reheating your filet mignon in the air fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Place the steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring it’s not overcrowded.
- Cook the filet mignon for 5-10 minutes, adjusting for thickness and desired doneness. 5-6 minutes for medium-rare, up to 10 minutes for well-done.
- Flip the steak halfway through cooking for even heating.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature, aiming for at least 145°F (63°C), which is safe for beef.
- Once it reaches your desired temperature, let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving.
Please note that reheating times may vary depending on the type and brand of air fryer you’re using.
Microwave Reheating for Filet Mignon
Using the microwave to reheat filet mignon isn’t the best choice, and we suggest it only if you have no other options. It’s a quick method but requires careful handling to avoid overcooking the meat.
Here’s how to do it:
- Get a microwave-safe dish with some depth.
- Put your steak in the dish and pour some broth, beef juices, or a tasty liquid of your choice over it.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Lower the microwave power to medium heat (this step matters!).
- Heat the steak in 30-second increments, turning it each time. It should take only a minute or two to reheat the steak properly.
To achieve better results, utilize the juices you preserved from when you initially cooked the steak. If you don’t have those, you can add steak sauce or beef broth to keep it moist. Be careful not to overheat and dry out the filet mignon when using the microwave.
Tips for Reheating Filet Mignon: How to Retain Moisture and Flavor
Reheating filet mignon can be easy with a little effort. The best way is to use the oven and give it a quick sear, but it takes some time.
Keep Moisture In
Preserve moisture in your filet mignon. The problem with reheating steak is it can become dry and tough. Moisture is key.
Store it Right
Proper storage matters. Keep any leftover juices with the steak for added flavor during reheating. Seal it airtight in a container or bag. Don’t waste your leftover filet mignon; you can reheat it or use it in new dishes.
See Also – What’s the Best Way to Reheat Meatloaf?
Quick Q&A
Is covering filet mignon with foil necessary for reheating?
- No, slow reheating at a low temperature works best without foil.
Can you freeze filet mignon?
- Yes, use airtight packaging, label, and date it. It can last up to 12 months if stored properly.