If you have ever dreamed of cooking a restaurant-quality steak at home that melts effortlessly in your mouth, then this Filet Mignon (Foolproof Recipe) Recipe is your new best friend. Each tender filet is perfectly seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection with a beautifully caramelized crust that will make your taste buds sing. From the buttery aroma infused with fresh rosemary and garlic to the simple yet luxurious finishing touches, this recipe turns an elegant cut of meat into an unforgettable meal you can whip up in just 20 minutes. Get ready for compliments because once you master this Filet Mignon (Foolproof Recipe) Recipe, it will quickly become a trusted go-to for special dinners or anytime you want to treat yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward yet essential for creating that rich, juicy, and flavorful filet mignon experience. Each item plays its part in building the perfect combination of texture, aroma, and taste that makes this steak stand out on your plate.
- 2 (8-ounce) filet mignon steaks: Choose thick, evenly cut steaks for optimal cooking and tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: This coarse salt enhances the natural flavor while helping form a beautiful crust.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and depth to the steak’s surface.
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or other high heat oil): A neutral oil with a high smoke point to ensure perfect searing without burning.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For rich basting that keeps the filet moist and infuses it with flavor.
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary: Fresh herbs bring an aromatic, earthy touch to complement the beef.
- 2 peeled garlic cloves: Garlic infuses the butter, enriching every bite with subtle savory notes.
- Herb compound butter or bearnaise sauce: Optional finishing sauces to elevate your presentation and taste profile.
How to Make Filet Mignon (Foolproof Recipe) Recipe
Step 1: Season Your Steaks Like a Pro
First, let your steaks come to room temperature for about 30 to 40 minutes; this ensures even cooking throughout. Then, generously season all sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple step is crucial as it forms the foundation of flavor and creates that irresistible crust during searing.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Having your oven perfectly heated ensures that your steaks finish cooking evenly after the sear, locking in juices and tenderness.
Step 3: Sear and Baste the Filets
Heat an oven-safe cast iron pan over high heat until it’s extremely hot—this is the secret to a golden crust. Pour in the avocado oil and wait until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough. Sear the steaks on the flat sides for about 2 minutes until you get that perfect crust. Then, roll the steaks on their edges for an additional minute to caramelize the sides. Flip the steaks to their final side, add butter, garlic, and rosemary to the pan, and begin basting the steaks with the melted butter using a spoon for about 1 minute. This buttery bath not only imparts flavor but also keeps the meat moist and tender.
Step 4: Bake to Desired Doneness
Transfer your hot pan to the preheated oven. Depending on how you like your steak, bake for 4 to 10 minutes. For medium-rare, take the steaks out when the internal temperature reaches 120°F. This gentle finish in the oven cooks the steak evenly while maintaining tenderness.
Step 5: Rest for Juicy Perfection
Once out of the oven, move the steaks onto a plate and loosely cover with aluminum foil. Let them rest for 5 to 7 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy, tender, and mouthwatering.
Step 6: Serve and Impress
Before serving, top your steaks with hot melted herb butter from the pan or add a fresh slice of compound butter. Alternatively, a drizzle of bearnaise sauce amps up the decadent flavor. This final flourish turns your Filet Mignon (Foolproof Recipe) Recipe into an elegant and unforgettable dining experience.
How to Serve Filet Mignon (Foolproof Recipe) Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme sprigs add vibrant green color and a fragrant touch. A small pat of melting compound butter or a drizzle of bearnaise sauce provides a beautiful glossy finish along with rich flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt flakes just before serving can also enhance texture and flavor pop.
Side Dishes
This filet mignon loves company! Classic creamy mashed potatoes, garlic roasted asparagus, or buttery green beans work wonderfully to balance the richness of the steak. A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a fresh contrast that brightens the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant twist, plate your filet mignon atop a bed of sautéed wild mushrooms or truffle mac and cheese. Using edible flowers or microgreens as garnishes adds a whimsical touch that will wow guests at your dinner table. And don’t forget a warm, crusty baguette on the side for mopping up every last bit of buttery steak juice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover filet mignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain moisture, place a small piece of butter or a sprinkle of beef broth on top before sealing.
Freezing
Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked filet mignon by wrapping each steak tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag. Frozen filet mignon is best used within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating
The key to reheating is gentle heat to avoid overcooking. Warm your leftover steak in a low oven (about 250°F) for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through, or briefly pan-sear it with a touch of butter to bring back that delicious crust without drying it out.
FAQs
What is the best internal temperature for filet mignon?
For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 120°F when you remove the steak from the oven, as it will rise slightly during resting. This temperature gives you a tender, juicy filet.
Can I use other oils besides avocado oil for searing?
Yes! Any high smoke point oil such as grapeseed, canola, or refined vegetable oil works well. These oils handle the intense heat without burning, helping you achieve that perfect sear.
Why is resting the steak important?
Resting allows the meat’s juices to redistribute evenly throughout the steak, preventing them from spilling out the moment you cut into it. This ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.
Can I cook filet mignon from frozen?
While possible, it’s best to thaw the steak completely to ensure even cooking. Cooking from frozen can result in overcooked edges and undercooked centers.
What should I serve with Filet Mignon (Foolproof Recipe) Recipe to impress guests?
Pair it with elegant side dishes like gratin dauphinois, roasted root vegetables, or a fresh arugula salad with shaved Parmesan and lemon vinaigrette to complement the richness of the steak.
Final Thoughts
This Filet Mignon (Foolproof Recipe) Recipe is a warm invitation to enjoy a truly special meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. From the sizzling sear to the fragrant herb butter finish, it’s a dish that brings joy with every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply craving a steak lover’s dream, give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to recreate steakhouse magic right in your own kitchen.
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Filet Mignon (Foolproof Recipe) Recipe
This foolproof filet mignon recipe delivers perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy steaks with a beautifully seared crust. Cooked using a combination of stovetop searing and oven baking, it is enhanced by aromatic butter basting with garlic and rosemary, and finished with a delicious herb compound butter or bearnaise sauce for an elegant, flavorful dish perfect for special occasions or an indulgent dinner.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients
Steaks
- 2 (8-ounce) filet mignon steaks
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or other high heat oil)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 peeled garlic cloves
To Serve
- Herb compound butter or bearnaise sauce
Instructions
- Season: Remove the steaks from the fridge about 30 to 40 minutes before cooking to let them come to room temperature. Season all sides evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor and help develop a crust during cooking.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking after searing. Make sure the oven is fully heated before transferring the pan.
- Sear and Baste: Heat an empty oven-safe pan such as cast iron on the stovetop over high heat until very hot. Add the avocado oil and wait until it shimmers indicating it’s hot enough. Sear the steaks for 2 minutes to develop a golden crust, then roll them on their edges for 1 minute to sear the sides. Flip onto the final side and add the butter, garlic cloves, and rosemary sprigs. Continuously spoon the melted butter over the steaks for 1 minute to baste and infuse the meat with flavor.
- Bake: Carefully transfer the hot pan into the preheated oven. Bake the steak for 4 to 10 minutes depending on your preferred doneness—remove steaks at an internal temperature of around 120°F for a medium-rare finish.
- Rest: Remove the steaks from the oven and place them on a plate. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and let rest for 5 to 7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy, tender meat.
- Serve: Serve hot topped with the warm herb butter collected in the pan or a fresh slice of compound butter. Alternatively, drizzle with bearnaise sauce for a classic pairing that elevates the flavor profile.
Notes
- Allowing steaks to come to room temperature helps to cook them evenly.
- Use a cast iron or other oven-safe heavy pan to ensure even searing and safe transfer to oven.
- Adjust baking time based on steak thickness and desired doneness to avoid overcooking.
- Resting the steak after baking is crucial for juicy, tender results.
- Butter basting adds richness and infuses aromatic flavors.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- Bearnaise sauce adds a traditional French touch but is optional.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: American
