Perfect Filet Mignon Recipe
Craving a steakhouse-quality meal at home? Cooking a filet mignon doesn’t have to be intimidating! This tender, buttery steak can be your dinner triumph with just a few simple steps. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients for Filet Mignon
- Filet Mignon: 6-8 ounces per steak, 1½ inches thick—look for a rich red color without silver skin.
- Oil: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or avocado oil.
- Basting Butter: Blend butter, garlic, and herbs to enhance the flavor while cooking.
- Salt and Pepper: Generously season both sides before searing.
How to Cook Filet Mignon
Ready to impress your taste buds? Follow these straightforward steps:
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Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper.
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Sear the Steaks: Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil, swishing to coat the bottom. Place the steaks in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
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Flip and Baste: Turn the steaks over and lower the heat to medium. Add butter, garlic cloves, and fresh herbs. Tilt the pan slightly to baste the steaks with the melted butter and aromatics.
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Finish in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast the steaks for 3-5 minutes, or until they reach your desired doneness:
- Rare: 120°F (48°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
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Rest: Move the steaks to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let them rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
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Serve: Plate your filet mignon with garlic butter or A1 steak sauce along with your favorite sides, and enjoy!
How Long to Cook Filet Mignon
Keep your steak from overcooking by removing it from heat about 4°F below your target temperature. Here’s a quick doneness guide:
| Doneness | Oven Time | Internal Temp (pre-resting) | Internal Temp (post-resting) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rare | 3-4 minutes | 115°F (46°C) | 120-125°F (49-52°C) |
| Medium-Rare | 5-6 minutes | 120°F (49°C) | 125-130°F (52-54°C) |
| Medium | 6-7 minutes | 130°F (54°C) | 135-140°F (57-60°C) |
| Medium-Well | 8-9 minutes | 140°F (60°C) | 145-150°F (63-66°C) |
| Well Done | 10-11 minutes | 150°F (66°C) | 155-160°F (68-71°C) |
Tip: Avoid cooking past 165°F (74°C) to keep the steak from drying out.
Tips and Tricks
- Temperature Matters: Bring your steak to room temperature for 30-60 minutes before cooking. Pat dry with paper towels for a better sear.
- Wait to Flip: If your steak is sticking to the pan, don’t force it! It will release naturally when it has a nice crust.
- Read the Temp Accurately: Use a meat thermometer inserted from the side for a nice presentation without ruining the surface.
- Resting is Key: Allow steaks to rest for 5-7 minutes after cooking for maximum juiciness.
- Slice Smart: Cut against the grain for clean slices.
How to Serve Filet Mignon
A scrumptious filet mignon deserves some delicious sides! Here are a few pairings that work wonderfully:
- Mashed potatoes
- Grilled vegetables
- Creamed spinach
- Garlic bread
Storage Tips
While best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be kept for 3-5 days.
- To Store: Refrigerate the fillets, whole or sliced.
- To Freeze: Let them cool, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- To Reheat: Thaw in the fridge overnight and microwave in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
More Fancy Date Night Recipes
- Steak Diane
- Chimichurri Steak
- Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
- Maple Glazed Salmon
- Chicken Lombardy
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can bring the taste of fine dining into your kitchen! Enjoy your perfect filet mignon dinner!