While burgers and hot dogs have their place, sometimes a summer BBQ calls for something a little more elevated. Enter filet mignon tenderloin – a cut of beef renowned for its buttery tenderness and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you're planning a weekend get-together or a romantic dinner on the patio, this grilled filet mignon tenderloin recipe will leave your guests impressed and satisfied.
What is Filet Mignon Tenderloin?
Filet mignon comes from the smaller end of the beef tenderloin, a muscle that does very little work, making it one of the most tender cuts of meat available. It's lean, succulent, and, when cooked right, delivers a rich, buttery flavour that doesn’t need a lot of seasoning or marinade to shine.
While often reserved for special occasions, filet mignon is ideal for summer grilling thanks to its quick cooking time and elegant presentation. Plus, using fresh herbs and simple sides makes it the star of any backyard BBQ.
Ingredients for Grilled Filet Mignon Tenderloin (Serves 4)
- 4 filet mignon tenderloin steaks (1.5 to 2 inches thick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp butter per steak (for finishing)
- Optional: balsamic glaze or compound herb butter
How to Prepare Filet Mignon for the Grill
1. Bring Steaks to Room Temperature
Remove your steaks from the fridge about 30–45 minutes before grilling. This helps them cook more evenly and prevents a cold centre.
2. Season Generously
Drizzle the steaks with olive oil, then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Gently press the seasonings into the meat so they adhere well.
3. Preheat Your Grill
Heat your BBQ to high, aiming for around 450°F to 500°F. If you’re using charcoal, make sure the coals are white-hot with a steady heat.
Grilling the Perfect Filet Mignon Tenderloin
1. Sear First
Place the steaks directly over the hottest part of the grill. Sear each side for 2–3 minutes without moving them. This caramelizes the outside and locks in juices.
2. Finish Over Indirect Heat
Move the steaks to a cooler area of the grill or reduce the heat to medium-low. Close the lid and cook for another 4–6 minutes, flipping once, until desired doneness.
Here’s a quick internal temperature guide:
- Rare: 120–125°F (49–52°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C)
- Medium: 140–145°F (60–63°C)
3. Rest and Butter
Once cooked, let the steaks rest for 5–10 minutes on a cutting board. Top each with a pat of butter or a spoonful of compound herb butter. Resting allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite.
Optional Summer Sides That Pair Beautifully
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest
Toss asparagus in olive oil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon, then grill for 3–5 minutes. The crisp-tender spears add a refreshing contrast to the rich filet mignon.
Herbed Baby Potatoes
Boil baby potatoes until tender, then toss with olive oil, garlic, parsley, and dill. Grill or roast until golden for a rustic side dish.
Summer Tomato Salad
Combine heirloom tomatoes, red onion, fresh basil, and bocconcini cheese with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a light, flavourful salad.
Tips for Grilling Filet Mignon Like a Pro
Invest in a Meat Thermometer
This is key to nailing your preferred doneness without overcooking such a premium cut.
Avoid Over-Flipping
Turn the steak just once during cooking to create that signature sear.
Use Tongs, Not a Fork
Piercing the steak lets juices escape. Use tongs to handle the meat gently.
Let It Rest
Always rest your steak before cutting. This locks in the moisture and boosts flavour.
Grilled filet mignon tenderloin is the perfect centrepiece for a memorable summer evening. It’s quick to prepare, irresistibly tender, and easily elevated with fresh herbs and seasonal sides.
Don't be intimidated by this premium cut – with a few simple tips and quality ingredients, even a novice grillmaster can serve up a steakhouse-worthy meal right from the BBQ.
Shop the best Canadian Filet Mignon Tenderloin Steaks
