Tips for Grilling Filet Mignon

Filet mignon’s popularity results from the fact that it’s one of the most tender cuts of beef you can buy. Ironically, it’s that delicate reputation that causes people to avoid grilling this incredible steak. When most people think of cooking a filet, they think of searing it. But if you’re a fan of the big smoky flavors you get from a grill, that pan-cooked meat just won’t cut it. No amount of bacon wrapping or red wine saucing can compete with the goodness of a barbecue grilled filet. 

Today, we’re here to share our favorite tips for grilling filet mignon. We bet you’ll never pan-sear one again! 

Temperature and Time for Grilled Filet Mignon

To keep from overcooking your filet, you’ll need to pay special attention to the temperature of your grill and the amount of time you leave your steaks on the heat.  

Filets should be cooked over high heat. The ideal temperature to shoot for is around 450-degrees. This will guarantee a beautiful, somewhat crispy sear and a soft, tender inside.

Once you’ve seared both sides, it’s time to finish your steak by cooking the inside. Here you’ll need to use indirect heat. To do this, turn your grill down to around 300-degrees and move your filets away from the burners. This lets you avoid over-cooking the outside of the beef while the middle comes up to temperature.

Because filet mignon is such a tender cut, the total cooking time will take less than 15 minutes. In fact, for a 1 ½ inch thick filet, you’ll only need about 4 minutes of grilling on each side. Even a larger 3-inch medallion will require a grill time of only about 6 minutes on each side. But remember, these are just estimates, use a thermometer to ensure the proper temperature is achieved.

Steps for Grilling Filet Mignon

1. First, things first, set your steaks out and allow them to come to room temperature. Getting them out of the fridge ensures a more even, thorough cook. While you wait, preheat your grill to 450-degrees.

2. Once the steaks are ready to be cooked, add your choice of seasoning. Salt and pepper are good, but check out some of our favorite spice rub recipes here. Any one of these seasonings will give your filets a perfect flavor boost!

3. Next, spray or wipe oil on your grill grates so the filets won’t stick. Then place your steaks on the hottest part of the grill. Keep them there until a nice sear is achieved on the first side. Remember, the timing is based on the thickness of your steaks. For a 1 ½ inch thick filet, you’ll only need about 4 minutes per side and for a 3-inch filet, you’ll need about 6 minutes. 

4. Don’t forget to use a thermometer to check your steak’s doneness. For rare, stop cooking when the temperature reaches 115 degrees, medium-rare 125 degrees, and medium 135 degrees. 

5. Once you hit those temps, remove the filets from the grill and let them rest for five minutes. This allows the juices to flow back into the meat.

Final Tips for Grilled Filet Mignon

Now that you know the best way to cook filet mignon on a grill, here are a few more tips to fine-tune your skills.

• Thicker cuts tend to do better on the grill. Try to use filets that are at least two inches thick.

• Don’t forget to lightly oil your grill grates before cooking and always keep your grill clean. If you’d like to learn more about cleaning your grill, **check out our best grill cleaning tips.*** 

• Use an instant-read thermometer to monitor your steaks. This allows for fast temping and a more accurate cook.

• Allow your filets to rest for five minutes once you take them off the grill. This allows the juices to reabsorb back into the meat.

Check us out! We offer grass-fed, grain-finished, sustainably raised bulk beef and Premium Quality custom beef boxes. Each one is chock-full of all your favorite cuts. We also have tons of Texas Beef Company merchandise. Show the world that you Eat Better Beef!