Filet Mignon Sliders with Aioli
Highlighted under: Celebration Feast Ideas
I love making these Filet Mignon Sliders with Aioli for gatherings because they’re a crowd-pleaser that impresses everyone! The tender filet mignon prepared to your liking, paired with a zesty homemade aioli, is a combination that never fails. Each slider is bursting with flavor and makes for a hearty yet elegant bite. As I prepare these sliders, I ensure that the meat is seasoned perfectly, and the aioli is creamy and tangy, complementing the richness of the steak beautifully. It’s the ultimate finger food indulgence for any occasion.
When crafting my Filet Mignon Sliders with Aioli, I love experimenting with different seasoning blends to elevate the flavor of the meat. A touch of garlic and fresh herbs can really bring out the best in the filet. I often grill the meat to get a nice char, which adds depth and complexity to the sliders. I’ve learned that letting the steak rest before slicing it ensures maximum juiciness.
Creating the aioli is the real joy of this recipe; I blend mayonnaise with garlic, lemon juice, and a bit of Dijon mustard for a zingy kick. This homemade aioli adds a creamy texture and a flavorful punch that perfectly complements the grilled filet mignon. Each bite is a delight that captivates the taste buds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory filet mignon that melts in your mouth
- Zesty aioli adds a unique touch
- Perfect for game day or entertaining
Understanding Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is known for its tenderness and richness, making it an excellent choice for sliders. The cut comes from the tenderloin section of the cow, which is why it is so flavorful yet succulent. To get the best results, it's crucial to pay attention to the cooking time. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F, which can be checked with a meat thermometer. This ensures that the meat remains juicy and doesn't become overcooked, losing its desirable texture.
When cutting the filet mignon into 1-inch pieces, try to keep them uniform to ensure even cooking. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can easily reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the meat's tenderness. This makes the preparation of these sliders more manageable, especially if you're entertaining a larger group.
Crafting the Perfect Aioli
Making aioli is straightforward, but achieving the right balance of flavors is crucial. The lemon juice not only adds acidity but also helps to brighten the richness of the mayonnaise and steak. You can adjust the garlic according to your preference—using roasted garlic will give a milder, sweeter flavor compared to raw garlic cloves. For an extra zing, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or some fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a burst of freshness.
If you prefer a lighter version of the aioli, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This will still give you that creamy texture while reducing calories. Remember to let the aioli rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more satisfying topping for your sliders.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Filet Mignon Sliders:
For the Sliders
- 8 oz filet mignon, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 slider buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for grilling
For the Aioli
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start putting together these mouthwatering sliders!
Instructions
Follow these steps for making the slider and aioli:
Prepare the Aioli
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until ready to use.
Cook the Filet Mignon
Season the filet mignon pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness is reached. Let the steak rest for a few minutes.
Assemble the Sliders
Slice the slider buns in half. Place a piece of cooked filet mignon on the bottom half of each bun, and generously spread the aioli on the top half. Close the sliders and serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Filet Mignon Sliders with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or a slice of cheese to the sliders. Also, using fresh herbs in the aioli can enhance its flavor significantly.
Serving Suggestions
These filet mignon sliders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic combination, consider serving them with sweet potato fries or a fresh arugula salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. Both options provide a nice contrast to the richness of the sliders, making for a well-rounded meal. I often suggest preparing a dipping sauce like a spicy ketchup or barbecue sauce to elevate the slider experience even further.
For a fun twist, serve the sliders with an array of toppings like sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even blue cheese crumbles. This allows your guests to customize their sliders to their taste, enhancing the overall dining experience. Don't shy away from offering these variations; they can make the gathering feel more interactive and personalized.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your steaks end up overcooked, don’t fret! One way to salvage them is to slice the filet mignon thinly against the grain and serve it at room temperature. Drizzling with a bit of the aioli can help add moisture and flavor back into the meat. In the future, ensure you're keeping an eye on the grill and checking the temperature periodically to avoid overcooking.
If your aioli turns out too thick, you can thin it out easily by whisking in a teaspoon of warm water or extra lemon juice until you achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, adding a little more mayonnaise can help adjust the texture. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning to create the perfect balance that complements your sliders.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cut of beef for the sliders?
Yes, you can use ribeye or sirloin, but cooking times may vary due to the different fat content.
→ How can I make the aioli spicy?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sriracha to your aioli for a spicy kick!
→ Can I make sliders ahead of time?
You can prepare the aioli and season the meat ahead of time, but it’s best to grill the meat fresh for the best texture.
→ What can I serve with these sliders?
These sliders pair well with fries, coleslaw, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Filet Mignon Sliders with Aioli
I love making these Filet Mignon Sliders with Aioli for gatherings because they’re a crowd-pleaser that impresses everyone! The tender filet mignon prepared to your liking, paired with a zesty homemade aioli, is a combination that never fails. Each slider is bursting with flavor and makes for a hearty yet elegant bite. As I prepare these sliders, I ensure that the meat is seasoned perfectly, and the aioli is creamy and tangy, complementing the richness of the steak beautifully. It’s the ultimate finger food indulgence for any occasion.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Celebration Feast Ideas
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 sliders
What You'll Need
For the Sliders
- 8 oz filet mignon, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 slider buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for grilling
For the Aioli
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until ready to use.
Season the filet mignon pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness is reached. Let the steak rest for a few minutes.
Slice the slider buns in half. Place a piece of cooked filet mignon on the bottom half of each bun, and generously spread the aioli on the top half. Close the sliders and serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or a slice of cheese to the sliders. Also, using fresh herbs in the aioli can enhance its flavor significantly.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 340mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 18g