Filet mignon is a delicious and tender cut of beef that is celebrated for its rich, buttery flavor. This elegant steak is often featured in high-end restaurants but can easily be cooked at home. With the right technique, you can impress your family and friends with a perfect filet mignon.
Why Make This Recipe
Making filet mignon at home not only allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal, but it also gives you the chance to customize the flavors to your liking. Plus, cooking filet mignon can be surprisingly easy, making it a great choice for special occasions or a simple indulgence.
How to Make Filet Mignon
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 (6-ounce) filet mignon
- Kosher salt (for seasoning)
- Cracked black pepper (for seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasonings
- ¼ cup butter (sliced)
- Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs
- 3 whole garlic cloves
Directions
- Allow the meat to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Ensure the skillet is oven-safe. Heat the oil until it’s almost smoking, right before you add the steak.
- Season each of the 4 (6-ounce) filet mignon with generous amounts of kosher salt, cracked black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasonings on both sides.
- Place the seasoned steaks in the hot skillet. Cook until they’re seared and browned on both sides, about 2 minutes for each side.
- Add ¼ cup butter, 3 whole garlic cloves, along with fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs to the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook to your liking. Check the temperature of the steaks before placing them in the oven, as they might be close to your desired doneness. The steaks will cook in the oven for less than 5 minutes.
- Remove the steaks from the oven when they reach your desired temperature. Baste the steaks with the melted butter from the skillet. For a medium-rare finish, aim for a temperature of around 120-130 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cover the steaks with foil and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing and enjoying!
How to Serve Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is best served hot. You can pair it with a simple side like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. A glass of red wine also complements this dish very well.
How to Store Filet Mignon
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the steak gently in the oven or on a skillet over low heat.
Tips to Make Filet Mignon
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the steak to get a good sear.
- Let the steak rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness accurately.
Variation
You can experiment with different herbs or marinades to add unique flavors to your filet mignon. For instance, a splash of balsamic vinegar or a rub of coffee can give it a different twist.
FAQs
- What is the best way to cook filet mignon?
The best way is to sear it in a hot skillet and then finish in the oven for a perfectly cooked steak. - How do I know when my filet mignon is done?
Use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, you want it to be around 120-130 degrees Fahrenheit. - Can I grill filet mignon instead of pan-searing it?
Yes, grilling is a great option! Just make sure to preheat the grill and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Filet Mignon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces filet mignon (6-ounce each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt Kosher salt (for seasoning)
- Cracked black pepper Cracked black pepper (for seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasonings
- ¼ cup butter (sliced)
- 3 whole garlic cloves
- fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs
Instructions
Preparation
- Allow the meat to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking.
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cooking
- In a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat until almost smoking.
- Season each filet mignon with kosher salt, cracked black pepper, and dried Italian seasonings on both sides.
- Place the seasoned steaks in the hot skillet and cook until seared and browned on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.
- Add ¼ cup butter, 3 whole garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs to the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook to your liking, checking the temperature of the steaks before placing in the oven, cooking for less than 5 minutes.
- Remove the steaks from the oven when they reach the desired temperature and baste with the melted butter.
- Cover the steaks with foil and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
