A filet mignon's thickness can be between 1 ½ to 2 inches or even 3 inches depending on your butcher. These differences in thickness can affect how long you should grill it for.

A 1 ½-inch filet mignon may look similar to a 2-inch one, but they cook very differently. Just half an inch of extra thickness can mean up to five minutes of extra cooking time.

For those who prefer rare steak, opt for one 2 to 3 inches thick. The extra thickness allows you to cook it longer and sear a nice crust without it being overcooked.

For a medium-rare steak, cook each side for five minutes between 375 and 450 degrees F until it reaches an internal temperature of 125 to 135 degrees F.

Cook steaks between 1 ½ and 2 inches thick for three and a half to four and a half minutes per side for medium-rare. Add 30 seconds per side for each level of doneness above that.

On a charcoal grill, cook your steak for five minutes per side over direct heat to achieve the equivalent of medium-high heat, then transfer it to the cooler side of the grill.