Grilling the Perfect Petite Tender Beef Filet

As an avid griller, I’m always looking for new and exciting cuts of meat to throw on the barbecue One of my latest obsessions is the petite tender beef filet. This petite cut packs a big punch when it comes to rich, beefy flavor But grilling novices may wonder – how long should you actually grill a petite tender filet for peak tenderness and juiciness? In this complete guide, I’ll walk through everything you need to know to master cooking petite tender beef filets on the grill.

What is Petite Tender Beef Filet?

Let’s start by getting to know this delicious cut of meat. Petite tender, also called beef shoulder tender is a small, oval-shaped muscle nestled against the shoulder blade of the cow. It sits right next to the tenderloin and shares that same melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

The petite tender has incredible marbling that keeps it nice and moist during cooking. It tastes remarkably similar to a filet mignon steak. I like to think of the petite tender filet as the filet’s more affordable, yet still upscale little cousin. It delivers that buttery texture without the premium price tag.

Benefits of Grilling Petite Tender Filet

There are several reasons petite tender beef filet is so well suited for grilling:

• Quick cook time – These petite filets are small and thin, so they cook faster than larger cuts. A typical petite tender is around 1/2 pound and 1 inch thick.

• Naturally tender – The petite tender comes from a rarely used muscle, so it stays very tender. No need to marinate!

• Rich flavor – Abundant marbling gives it a robust, beefy flavor similar to filet mignon.

• Impressive presentation – Petite filets look elegant and refined when plated.

• Budget-friendly – Costs a fraction of the price of filet mignon.

If you appreciate a good steak but don’t want to spend too much, petite tender filet is ideal for the grill.

Grilling Time and Temperature

When grilling petite tender beef filets, there are two key factors that affect cook time – thickness and desired doneness.

Here are general guidelines:

• Steak thickness – 1/2 to 1 inch is ideal
• Grill temperature – Medium-high heat, around 400°F
• Doneness level:
  • Rare – 4-6 minutes total
  • Medium rare – 6-8 minutes total
  • Medium – 8-10 minutes total
  • Medium well – 10-12 minutes total

These times are for steaks flipped halfway through. Always rely on an instant-read thermometer to check doneness rather than just going by time.

For medium rare, pull the petite tender filets between 130-135°F. The temperature will continue rising around 5°F during resting.

Step-by-Step Grilling Instructions

Follow these simple steps for grilling petite tender beef filets flawlessly:

1. Pat steaks dry – Blot surface moisture with paper towels. This helps get a good sear.

2. Generously season – Coat both sides with salt, pepper and any other dry rub ingredients.

3. Preheat grill to 400°F – Use medium-high heat for optimal searing.

4. Grill 4-6 minutes per side – Flip steaks halfway through. Time depends on thickness and doneness desired.

5. Check temperature – Insert instant-read thermometer sideways to gauge doneness.

6. Rest 5 minutes – This allows juices to redistribute before slicing.

7. Slice against the grain – Cut across the grain for maximum tenderness.

8. Serve immediately – Plate the grilled petite filets while still hot.

And that’s all there is to it! With these simple grilling tips, you’ll achieve tender, juicy petite tender beef filets bursting with flavor.

Choosing the Right Petite Tender Filets

Not all petite tender filets are created equal. Here’s what to look for when buying petite tender steaks:

• Uniform thickness – Pick filets around 1 inch thick for even grilling.

• Good marbling – Seek out excellent marbling for flavor and moisture.

• Bright red color – Avoid brown or gray hues, which indicate age.

• Firm texture – Meat should feel tender but still have some resistance.

• Fresh scent – Raw beef should have a mild, bright scent. Pass on off odors.

Seeking out high-quality petite tender filets guarantees delicious results off the grill.

Must-Try Recipe Ideas

Petite tender beef filets offer a blank canvas for endless seasoning possibilities. Here are some of my favorite recipe ideas:

• Chimichurri petite filets – A zesty Argentinian herb sauce.

• Coffee-crusted petite filets – Finished with a rich coffee rub.

• Petite filets with blue cheese butter – Topped with a tangy compound butter.

• Bacon-wrapped petite filets – The classic steakhouse preparation.

• Petite filets with chimichurri sauce – Tropical cilantro and herb sauce.

• Balsamic glazed petite filets – A sweet and savory balsamic glaze.

Let your imagination run wild with globally inspired seasoning and marinade combinations!

Serving Suggestions

Petite tender beef filets deserve some delicious sides. Here are some of my favorites:

• Roast asparagus
• Hasselback potatoes
• Creamed spinach
• Sauteed mushrooms
• Crispy Brussels sprouts
• Skillet cornbread
• Tomato mozzarella salad

Vibrant vegetable sides and starchy accents complement the richness of the petite filets perfectly.

Grilled Petite Tender Perfection