[Full Guide] How Long To Cook Filet Mignon In Instant Pot?

Filet mignon is a tender and flavorful cut of beef that is often considered a delicacy. Traditionally, it is grilled or seared in a pan, but cooking it in an Instant Pot can yield equally succulent and perfectly cooked results. The Instant Pot offers a convenient and efficient way to prepare filet mignon while preserving its natural juices and tenderness. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to select, prepare, and cook filet mignon in an Instant Pot, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Filet Mignon In Instant Pot

Cooking filet mignon in an Instant Pot requires precision to achieve the desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare filet mignon, the recommended cooking time is approximately 3 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes. Keep in mind that the thickness of the filet mignon will influence the cooking time.

Selection

Selecting the right cut of filet mignon is crucial for a successful and flavorful dish. When choosing filet mignon for your Instant Pot recipe, opt for well-marbled, thick-cut steaks. The marbling, or intramuscular fat, enhances the tenderness and flavor of the meat. Look for steaks that are at least 1.5 inches thick to ensure even cooking and succulent results. Additionally, consider opting for grass-fed or prime-grade filet mignon for superior taste and quality.

Preparation

Proper preparation is essential to accentuate the natural flavors of the filet mignon and achieve optimal tenderness. Before cooking, it’s important to bring the filet mignon to room temperature, as this promotes even cooking. To do this, remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes.

Season the filet mignon generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance its natural flavors. If desired, you can also incorporate additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or a steak rub of your choice to complement the beefy taste of the filet mignon.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Filet Mignon

The cooking time for filet mignon in an Instant Pot varies based on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of the steaks. Here are recommended cooking times for different levels of doneness:

• Rare: 2 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes.
• Medium-Rare: 3 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes.
• Medium: 4 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes.
• Well-Done: 5 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes.

Keep in mind that these cooking times are based on filet mignon steaks that are approximately 1.5 inches thick. Thicker steaks may require slightly longer cooking times. It is essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the filet mignon reaches the desired internal temperature.

How To Cook Filet Mignon In Instant Pot

Ingredients

• 4 filet mignon steaks, 1.5 inches thick
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil or cooking oil of your choice
• 1 cup of beef stock or broth
• Optional: Garlic powder, onion powder, steak seasoning

Instructions

1. Season the Filet Mignon: Remove the filet mignon steaks from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Season the steaks generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, add any additional seasonings such as garlic powder or steak seasoning.

2. Preheat the Instant Pot: Select the "Saute" setting on the Instant Pot and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned filet mignon steaks in the pot to sear.

3. Sear the Steaks: Allow the steaks to sear for 2 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Searing the steaks caramelizes the surfaces and enhances the flavor.

4. Add Beef Stock: Once the steaks are seared, remove them from the Instant Pot and set them aside. Pour the beef stock or broth into the pot and deglaze it by scraping the browned bits from the bottom. This adds flavor to the cooking liquid.

5. Pressure Cook: Return the seared filet mignon steaks to the Instant Pot, placing them on the trivet. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" mode, depending on the model. Cook the steaks based on the desired level of doneness and thickness, using the recommended cooking times provided earlier in this article.

6. Natural Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before carefully venting any remaining pressure.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the filet mignon steaks from the Instant Pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender outcome. Serve the filet mignon steaks with your choice of side dishes and enjoy!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Overcooking Or Undercooking

Overcooking or undercooking filet mignon can result in a less-than-ideal dining experience. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the steaks. For a medium-rare result, the filet mignon should reach an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the steaks.

Tough Texture

If the filet mignon turns out tough, it may have been cooked at too high of a pressure or for too long. To achieve a tender texture, ensure that the cooking time and pressure setting align with the thickness of the steaks. Additionally, allowing the steaks to rest after cooking is crucial for the redistribution of juices, contributing to a juicy and tender outcome.

Insufficient Flavor

If you find that the filet mignon lacks depth of flavor, consider enhancing the seasoning during the preparation stage. Experiment with different herbs, spices, or marinades to elevate the taste of the steaks. Additionally, using high-quality beef stock or broth in the Instant Pot can infuse the filet mignon with rich, savory flavors.

Cooking filet mignon in an Instant Pot offers a convenient and efficient method to achieve exceptional results. By carefully selecting well-marbled steaks, properly preparing them, and following the recommended cooking times, you can enjoy tender, flavorful filet mignon with minimal effort. Troubleshooting common issues such as overcooking, tough texture, or insufficient flavor ensures that your Instant Pot filet mignon experience is consistently delightful. Incorporate this detailed guide into your culinary repertoire to savor perfectly cooked filet mignon in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Filet Mignon

Filet mignon is a premium cut of beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor. Traditionally, filet mignon is cooked using methods such as grilling, pan-searing, or oven-baking. However, if you’re looking to save time and still enjoy a perfectly cooked filet mignon, the Instant Pot can be a game-changer. The Instant Pot is a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance that combines pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and more into one device.

One of the benefits of using an Instant Pot is the ability to cook food directly from frozen. This is especially handy if you forgot to thaw your filet mignon in advance. When cooking filet mignon from frozen in an Instant Pot, the cook times will vary depending on the thickness of the cut. Here is a general guideline for cook times:

• 1-inch thick filet mignon: 8-10 minutes on high pressure.
• 1.5-inch thick filet mignon: 10-12 minutes on high pressure.
• 2-inch thick filet mignon: 12-14 minutes on high pressure.

It’s important to note that these times are approximate and may vary depending on the specific model of your Instant Pot. Additionally, the desired level of doneness will also affect the cook time. If you prefer your filet mignon more well-done, you may need to increase the cook time slightly.

Achieving Perfect Texture

To achieve a perfectly tender and juicy filet mignon in your Instant Pot, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, sear the filet mignon on all sides before pressure cooking. This will help to develop a nice crust on the meat, enhance the flavor, and lock in the juices. To do this, heat some oil or butter in the Instant Pot using the sauté function, and sear the filet mignon for about 1-2 minutes on each side.

Once the filet mignon is seared, remove it from the Instant Pot and set it aside. Add some liquid to the Instant Pot, such as beef broth, red wine, or even water. This liquid will help create the necessary steam to build pressure inside the Instant Pot. Place the trivet provided with your Instant Pot into the pot, and then return the filet mignon to the pot, resting it on top of the trivet.

Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook the filet mignon at the recommended cook times based on the thickness. Once the cook time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 5 minutes, and then use the quick release method to release any remaining pressure.

Flavor Infusion

While cooking filet mignon in an Instant Pot is a time-saving method, it doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor. There are several ways to infuse your filet mignon with additional flavors using the Instant Pot.

1. Marinades: Before cooking, you can marinate your filet mignon to enhance its taste. Common marinade ingredients for filet mignon include olive oil, garlic, herbs (such as rosemary or thyme), and balsamic vinegar. Simply combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl, add the filet mignon, and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Aromatics: Another way to infuse flavor is by adding aromatics to the Instant Pot. Aromatics such as onions, garlic, and herbs can be sautéed along with the filet mignon before pressure cooking. This will impart a subtle and delicious flavor to the meat.

3. Deglazing: After searing the filet mignon, there will be browned bits of flavor stuck to the bottom of the Instant Pot. After removing the filet mignon, you can deglaze the pot by adding a small amount of liquid, such as wine or broth, and using a wooden spoon to scrape up those flavorful bits. This liquid can then be used as a base for a sauce or gravy to accompany the filet mignon.

4. Sauce Reduction: After pressure cooking the filet mignon, you can remove it from the Instant Pot and use the sauté function to reduce any remaining liquid. This will help concentrate the flavors and create a rich sauce to drizzle over the filet mignon.

By incorporating these flavor infusion techniques, you can elevate the taste of your filet mignon and create a truly memorable dining experience.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Filet Mignon

Aside from pressure cooking, there are a few other cooking methods you can try using your Instant Pot to prepare filet mignon:

1. Sous Vide: The sous vide method involves vacuum-sealing the filet mignon and cooking it in a water bath at a precise temperature for an extended period. While the Instant Pot is not specifically designed for sous vide cooking, it can be used as a makeshift water bath for sous vide-style filet mignon. Simply fill the Instant Pot with water, set it to the desired temperature (around 130°F for medium-rare), place the sealed filet mignon in the water, and let it cook for 1-2 hours. Afterward, sear the filet mignon in a hot skillet or using the sauté function of the Instant Pot to develop a nice crust.

2. Slow Cooker: If you prefer a more hands-off approach, you can use the slow cooker function of your Instant Pot to cook filet mignon. In this method, sear the filet mignon as mentioned earlier, then transfer it to the slow cooker function. Add some liquid to the pot, cover, and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. This method will result in a very tender filet mignon with a slightly different texture than pressure cooking.

3. Broiling in the Oven: While the Instant Pot can prepare a perfectly cooked filet mignon, it may not give you the desired charred crust. To achieve that, you can use the Instant Pot to pressure cook the filet mignon, and then transfer it to a preheated broiler in the oven for a few minutes to develop a crispy exterior. This method will give you the best of both worlds – a tender, perfectly cooked center and a flavorful crust.

Instant Pot Tips For Filet Mignon

To ensure the best results when cooking filet mignon in an Instant Pot, here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Let the Instant Pot come to pressure: It’s important to allow the Instant Pot to come to pressure before the actual cook time starts. This usually takes around 10-15 minutes. Be patient and don’t rush this step as it helps to ensure even cooking.

2. Use a meat thermometer: To achieve your preferred level of doneness, it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the filet mignon after pressure cooking to check the internal temperature. For a medium-rare result, aim for around 135°F, while 145°F is considered medium.

3. Rest the meat: After cooking, allow the filet mignon to rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.

4. Adjust the seasoning: Since the Instant Pot cooking method can sometimes dilute flavors, it may be necessary to adjust the seasoning of the filet mignon after cooking. Taste and season with salt, pepper, or any other desired seasonings before serving.

Creative Instant Pot Filet Mignon Recipes And Variations

Besides the traditional method of cooking filet mignon in the Instant Pot, there are a variety of creative recipes and variations that take this luxurious dish to new heights. Here are a few ideas:

1. Stuffed Filet Mignon: Create a pocket in the filet mignon by making a horizontal cut through the center, being careful not to cut all the way through. Stuff the pocket with ingredients like blue cheese, spinach, or bacon bits. Sear the filet mignon, pressure cook as usual, and enjoy a flavorful surprise in every bite.

2. Filet Mignon with Mushroom Sauce: After pressure cooking the filet mignon, remove it from the Instant Pot and set it aside to rest. In the Instant Pot, use the sauté function to cook sliced mushrooms with butter and minced garlic until softened. Add some beef broth, a splash of red wine, and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Let the sauce simmer and reduce until it reaches your desired consistency. Serve the filet mignon with the mushroom sauce spooned over the top.

3. Asian-inspired Filet Mignon: For a twist on traditional flavors, marinate the filet mignon in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil before pressure cooking. After cooking, slice the filet mignon into thin strips and serve over a bed of stir-fried vegetables or rice noodles.

4. Filet Mignon Tacos: Pressure cook the filet mignon with a Southwestern spice rub for added flavor. After cooking, slice the filet mignon and serve in warm tortillas with avocado, salsa, and any other desired taco toppings.

These are just a few examples of how you can get creative with filet mignon in your Instant Pot. Feel free to experiment with different flavors, seasonings, and ingredients to find your own unique spin on this classic dish.

Conclusion

With the help of the Instant Pot, cooking filet mignon has never been easier or more convenient. From perfectly cooked frozen filet mignon to infusing flavors and trying different cooking methods, the Instant Pot offers a wide range of possibilities. Whether you prefer a classic preparation or want to explore new and exciting variations, the Instant Pot can help you achieve a delicious and tender filet mignon every time. So, don’t hesitate to break out your Instant Pot and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you.

FAQS

How Long Does It Take To Cook Filet Mignon In An Instant Pot?

Depending on the thickness of the filet mignon, it typically takes 6-8 minutes of cooking time in the instant pot. This does not include the time it takes for the pot to come to pressure and release pressure.

Do I Need To Sear The Filet Mignon Before Cooking It In The Instant Pot?

While it is not required, searing the filet mignon before cooking it in the instant pot can enhance the flavor and texture of the meat. It also helps to lock in the juices.

What Is The Recommended Internal Temperature For Cooking Filet Mignon In An Instant Pot?

The ideal internal temperature for a medium rare filet mignon is 135°F. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat reaches this temperature before removing it from the instant pot.

Can I Use Frozen Filet Mignon In The Instant Pot?

Yes, you can use frozen filet mignon in the instant pot. However, you will need to add an additional 3-5 minutes of cooking time to account for the frozen meat.

Can I Add Sauce Or Seasonings To The Filet Mignon While Cooking In The Instant Pot?

Yes, you can add any desired seasonings or sauces to the filet mignon before cooking it in the instant pot. This can help enhance the flavor of the meat. However, it is best to avoid adding sauces or liquids that are thick or creamy, as they may affect the pressure release valve and cause issues with the cooking process.