Filet Mignon Steak is the epitome of luxury when it comes to steak. Known for its tenderness and delicate flavor, this cut of meat melts in your mouth with each bite. With just a simple seasoning of salt and pepper, it’s transformed into a dish that feels both indulgent and sophisticated. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, Filet Mignon is always a win.
The first time I made Filet Mignon, I was blown away by how effortlessly the steak turned out perfectly cooked. I seared the edges in a hot pan to get that beautiful, caramelized crust, and then finished it off in the oven. The result? A juicy, melt-in-your-mouth steak that was rich and flavorful without being overly heavy. What I love most about this steak is how tender it is—every bite feels like a treat. It’s a dish that requires little effort but always delivers a show-stopping result, and you can pair it with anything from mashed potatoes to a fresh salad for the perfect meal.
Perfect for:
- Special celebrations
- Romantic dinners
- Holidays and anniversaries
- Fine dining
- Steak lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Filet Mignon Steak will become your go-to dish for luxury and flavor:
- Incredibly Tender: The filet mignon is the most tender cut of beef, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Rich and Savory Flavor: With its subtle yet rich beef flavor, this steak is the perfect balance of taste and tenderness.
- Quick Cooking Time: The filet mignon cooks quickly, making it a great option for a delicious meal without a long wait.
- Perfectly Juicy: When cooked to the right temperature, it remains juicy and full of flavor.
- Customizable Seasoning: The steak can be seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs to suit your taste.
- Ideal for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday or a special dinner, filet mignon elevates any meal.
- Versatile Pairings: It pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to grilled vegetables.
- Elegant Presentation: This steak makes a statement on the plate, perfect for impressing guests.
- Restaurant Quality at Home: You can recreate a fine-dining experience in your own kitchen.
- Can Be Made Ahead: With some planning, you can prep this steak in advance and finish it off on the grill or in a pan.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 0g, Fat: 25g
Ingredients
For the Filet Mignon:
- 2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
For the Red Wine Reduction (optional):
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Filet Mignon: Known for its exceptional tenderness and delicate flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme infuse the steak with aromatic flavors.
- Red Wine: Adds richness and depth to the optional sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Filet Mignon:
- Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the steaks from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature.
- Season the Steaks: Season both sides of the filet mignon with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Preheat the Pan or Grill: Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat, or preheat your grill.
- Sear the Steaks: Add olive oil to the pan and sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side, until a nice brown crust forms.
- Add Butter and Herbs: Lower the heat, add butter, garlic, and fresh herbs to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks as they cook for an additional 2-3 minutes for medium-rare, or cook longer for your desired doneness.
- Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest for 5-10 minutes to lock in the juices.
Make the Red Wine Reduction (optional):
- Cook the Shallots: In the same pan, add the chopped shallot and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Add the Wine and Herbs: Pour in the red wine, adding rosemary or thyme. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce by half, about 5-7 minutes.
- Finish with Butter: Stir in the butter and balsamic vinegar (if using) for a glossy finish.
Serve:
- Plate the Steaks: Place the rested steaks on plates and drizzle the red wine reduction over the top, if desired.
How to Serve
Here are 8 serving suggestions for Filet Mignon Steak:
- With a Side of Mashed Potatoes: Classic mashed potatoes complement the steak’s rich flavor.
- With Grilled Vegetables: Serve with grilled asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal.
- On a Bed of Arugula: Pair with fresh greens like arugula for a light and refreshing contrast.
- With a Baked Potato: A baked potato is a hearty side that pairs perfectly with steak.
- With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the steak.
- With a Creamy Mushroom Sauce: A creamy mushroom sauce adds richness to the tender steak.
- With a Side of French Fries: Crispy fries are a great complement to steak for a more casual meal.
- For a Luxurious Dinner: Serve with a side of lobster tails or shrimp for a truly indulgent meal.
Additional Tips
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check for the desired doneness (120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium).
- Rest the Steak: Let the steak rest after cooking to retain its juices.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet provides even heat for perfect searing.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steaks one at a time to ensure a good sear.
- Optional Garnish: Top the steak with fresh herbs or a pat of garlic butter for extra flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Grilled Filet Mignon: Grill the steaks instead of pan-searing for a smoky flavor.
- Filet Mignon with Bearnaise Sauce: Top the steaks with a rich bearnaise sauce for a classic French twist.
- Filet Mignon with Blue Cheese Crust: Top the steak with blue cheese and breadcrumbs for a savory crust.
- Herb-Crusted Filet Mignon: Coat the steaks in a mixture of chopped herbs before searing.
- Filet Mignon with Truffle Butter: Finish the steak with a dollop of truffle butter for a luxurious flavor.
- Spicy Filet Mignon: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
Special Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for searing the steak to perfection.
- Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature for perfect doneness.
- Tongs: For flipping the steak without piercing the meat and losing juices.
- Serving Platter: For an elegant presentation of the filet mignon.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen filet mignon?
It’s best to thaw the steaks before cooking to ensure even cooking. - How long does filet mignon last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days in an airtight container. - Can I freeze the cooked steak?
Yes, filet mignon can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. - Can I use a different cut of beef?
While filet mignon is ideal, you can substitute with ribeye or strip steak for a different texture and flavor. - Can I cook filet mignon in the oven?
Yes, you can sear it in a pan and then finish cooking in a preheated oven at 400°F for 5-7 minutes. - What’s the best way to reheat leftover filet mignon?
Reheat in a pan over low heat with a bit of butter to keep it moist. - What’s the best way to slice filet mignon?
Slice against the grain for the most tender pieces. - Can I use a different fat for searing?
Yes, you can use butter, ghee, or vegetable oil for searing. - What sides go best with filet mignon?
Potatoes, vegetables, and salads are excellent accompaniments.
Conclusion
Filet Mignon Steak is the epitome of a perfect, melt-in-your-mouth steak experience. Known for its tenderness and delicate flavor, this cut of beef is lean yet incredibly juicy, making it a favorite for special occasions or a luxurious dinner at home. Whether cooked on the grill or in a hot skillet, it delivers a rich, satisfying taste that will leave you craving more.
Cooking filet mignon is simple, yet requires attention to detail to ensure the perfect sear and tenderness. A simple seasoning of salt and pepper allows the natural flavors of the beef to shine, but you can also elevate the dish with a flavorful butter sauce or a touch of herbs like rosemary or thyme. The result is a steak that’s beautifully caramelized on the outside while staying perfectly tender on the inside.
I can’t wait to see how your Filet Mignon Steak turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this steak your own!