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Filet MignonMarcus Nilsson Page 1 of 20

Common Cuts of Beef

By Katherine Wheelock

Whether you want your meat grilled, seared, or broiled, this guide will help you achieve perfect results every time.

Filet Mignon

Also known as: Tenderloin steak.

What it is: Filet mignon (French for “dainty fillet”) is taken from the tenderloin—a long strip of the steer’s most supple meat. (Not sure where that is? See the Beef Cuts diagram.) A 1,000-plus-pound steer yields only about 7 to 15 pounds of this mild cut, which is why it’s fairly expensive.

Price*: $17 a pound.

For 4 people, buy: Four 1¼-inch-thick steaks (6 to 8 ounces each).

Best way to prep: Season with salt and pepper or use a rub.


Recommended Cooking Times (for Medium-Rare)

Grill: 3 to 4 minutes per side.

Sear: 4 to 5 minutes per side.

(For more details on these methods, see How to Cook Steak.)

*Prices are based on averages of figures obtained from retailers around the country; local prices may vary.

Next: Flank
Skip to Daily Finds slides.
Filet Mignon
Flank Steak
Flat Iron steak
Hanger steak
Strip Steak
Porterhouse steak
Rib-Eye Steak
Sirloin Steak
Skirt steak
T-bone steak
London Broil
Tri-Tip steak
Brisket
Chuck Roast
Ground Beef
Rib Roast
Short Ribs

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