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