Filet Mignon Sliders with Aioli
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I absolutely love crafting these Filet Mignon Sliders with Aioli for gatherings. The tender, juicy meat paired with the zesty, creamy aioli creates a memorable bite. Each slider is the perfect handheld size, making them ideal for parties or casual dinners. I appreciate how these sliders fuse elegance and comfort food, pleasing everyone from foodies to the family. Plus, they come together quickly, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the company rather than slaving in the kitchen. Trust me, these sliders will steal the show!
When I first made these Filet Mignon Sliders with Aioli, I aimed to combine the sophistication of filet mignon with the fun and casual vibe of sliders. My method involved searing the steaks to perfection, ensuring they remained juicy and flavorful. I learned that letting the meat rest before slicing it thinly contributes to a more tender bite.
For the aioli, I experimented with garlic and lemon, which not only complemented the beef but elevated the entire dish. The balance of creaminess and brightness in the aioli truly enhanced the sliders, making them a hit at my latest gathering!
Reasons You'll Love These Sliders
- Juicy, tender filet mignon creates a rich, satisfying bite.
- Zesty garlic aioli adds a layer of flavor and creaminess.
- Perfectly portable sliders make them great for any occasion.
Getting the Perfect Sear
Achieving the ideal sear on your filet mignon is key to maximizing flavor. Start by preheating your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot enough to create a sizzling sound when the meat touches the surface. A cast-iron skillet works wonders here, as it retains heat well and gives the meat a beautifully caramelized crust. Cook the filet cubes for about 2-3 minutes on each side, adjusting the cooking time based on how you prefer your steak, but keep an eye out for a rich brown color to ensure the best flavors develop.
Another tip for a perfect sear is to avoid crowding the skillet. Cook the filet mignon in batches if necessary; this helps maintain the skillet’s temperature and prevents steaming the meat. If your skillet is overcrowded, the juices will release too quickly, leading to a tough texture. After searing, allow the meat to rest for a few minutes; this relaxes the fibers and helps retain the juices, ensuring each slider is as juicy as possible.
Elevating the Aioli
The aioli is what truly elevates these sliders, providing a zesty complement to the rich filet mignon. While the basic recipe works beautifully, you can enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle heat. I prefer using freshly minced garlic instead of pre-jarred to ensure a robust flavor—just remember that garlic’s pungency can intensify as it sits, so if you're making it ahead of time, do so sparingly.
If you want to mix things up, consider swapping out the mayo with Greek yogurt for a tangier and lighter alternative. This maintains the creamy texture while adding a protein boost. Just be cautious of the yogurt's consistency, as it can be thinner than mayonnaise, which may affect how well it stays on the sliders. A good balance is crucial, so adjust the lemon juice as needed to match your taste.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for these amazing sliders:
For the Sliders
- 1 pound filet mignon, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 slider buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Aioli
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make the sliders:
Prepare the Aioli
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and set aside.
Cook the Filet Mignon
In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Season the filet mignon cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
Assemble the Sliders
Slice the sliders buns in half. Place a piece of filet mignon on the bottom half of each bun, add a generous dollop of the garlic aioli, and top with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately.
Your delicious sliders are now ready to be enjoyed!
Pro Tips
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the filets to ensure even cooking and a perfect sear. You can also customize the toppings with your favorite ingredients like arugula or roasted peppers.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These Filet Mignon Sliders can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for gatherings. You can prepare the garlic aioli a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; it typically lasts about 3-4 days. The flavors will even meld and deepen as it sits. For the sliders, cook the filet mignon and once it’s cooled, store the cubes in a sealed container. They’re best used within 2 days for optimal freshness.
When it comes time to serve, simply reheat the filet mignon in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. This isn’t just practical; it also helps revive the flavors. Assemble the sliders just before you’re ready to serve to keep the buns from getting soggy. If you’re stacking sliders, you might wrap them loosely in foil to retain heat without trapping moisture inside.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders are fantastic on their own, but consider pairing them with complementary sides to create a well-rounded meal. Crispy sweet potato fries or a light arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette enhances the sophistication while adding a refreshing touch. For a fun twist, serve them with a small platter of pickles or gourmet cheeses to elevate the dining experience further.
If you're hosting a gathering, setting up a slider bar is an interactive way to engage your guests. Provide a variety of toppings like caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or different types of cheese for a customizable dining experience. This not only makes the meal more enjoyable but also provides an opportunity for guest interaction as they create their own combinations. Just be sure to have plenty of garlic aioli on hand!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use cuts like sirloin or ribeye, but adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are cooked properly.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven before serving.
→ Can I make the aioli in advance?
Absolutely! The aioli can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.
→ What can I serve with these sliders?
These sliders pair well with sweet potato fries, a light salad, or a charcuterie board for a complete meal.
Filet Mignon Sliders with Aioli
I absolutely love crafting these Filet Mignon Sliders with Aioli for gatherings. The tender, juicy meat paired with the zesty, creamy aioli creates a memorable bite. Each slider is the perfect handheld size, making them ideal for parties or casual dinners. I appreciate how these sliders fuse elegance and comfort food, pleasing everyone from foodies to the family. Plus, they come together quickly, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the company rather than slaving in the kitchen. Trust me, these sliders will steal the show!
What You'll Need
For the Sliders
- 1 pound filet mignon, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 slider buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Aioli
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and set aside.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Season the filet mignon cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
Slice the sliders buns in half. Place a piece of filet mignon on the bottom half of each bun, add a generous dollop of the garlic aioli, and top with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the filets to ensure even cooking and a perfect sear. You can also customize the toppings with your favorite ingredients like arugula or roasted peppers.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g