Filet Mignon is a tender cut of beef that is simply amazing! It’s juicy, flavorful, and melts in your mouth. Perfect for a special dinner or just a treat for yourself!
I love how easy it is to cook a filet mignon. Just a little seasoning, a quick sear in the pan, and it’s ready to impress! Pair it with some veggies, and dinner is served! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Filet Mignon: This cut is known for its tenderness. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider sirloin or ribeye, though they’ll have a different texture. Tenderloin is also a closer substitute.
Seasoning: Keep it simple! I love just salt and pepper, but if you want a kick, crushed red pepper flakes are a nice touch. You can skip them for a milder flavor.
Cooking Oil: Olive oil works great, but vegetable oil has a higher smoke point if you prefer. Butter adds richness, but you can omit it if you want a lighter dish.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is best, but dried thyme can work too. Just remember, dried is more potent, so use less.
How Do I Get My Filet Mignon Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking filet mignon perfectly may seem tricky, but it’s all about temperature control. Allowing the steaks to reach room temperature helps them cook evenly without being overdone on the outside.
- Preheat your oven for finishing the cooking process. Searing them first locks in flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness if unsure. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F.
- Let the steaks rest after cooking! This step ensures the juices stay inside, making for a juicy bite.
How to Make Filet Mignon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each and 1.5 to 2 inches thick)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (optional for seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme sprigs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Mashed potatoes or your preferred side, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful filet mignon takes about 30 minutes for preparation and cooking. Enjoy some extra time letting the meat rest after cooking for the best flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steaks:
Start by taking the filet mignon steaks out of the refrigerator. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step helps them cook evenly.
2. Preheat the Oven:
While the steaks are reaching room temperature, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will be used to finish cooking the steaks perfectly.
3. Season the Steaks:
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Then, season them generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Don’t forget the thyme! Press the seasonings into the meat.
4. Sear the Steaks:
Heat a heavy ovenproof skillet (like cast iron) over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the steaks. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until a beautiful, dark crust forms.
5. Add Flavor:
Once the steaks are nicely seared, add the butter, smashed garlic, and fresh thyme sprigs to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the melted butter over the steaks for about 1 minute. This adds amazing flavor!
6. Finish in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Cook for an additional 4-6 minutes for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness is reached. Check with a meat thermometer—130°F (54°C) is perfect for medium-rare!
7. Rest the Steaks:
Remove the steaks from the oven and place them on a plate. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your filet mignon steaks topped with the flavorful pan juices and thyme sprigs. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or your favorite side dish for a wonderful meal!
Enjoy your perfectly seared, juicy filet mignon! It’s a treat you deserve! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Filet Mignon?
While fresh is best for flavor and texture, you can use frozen filet mignon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking for even results.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Filet Mignon is Cooked to Perfection?
The key is using a meat thermometer! For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). Another trick is to let the steaks rest before cutting; this helps the juices redistribute, keeping them tender and juicy.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Butter?
Absolutely! You can use olive oil instead of butter for basting, which adds a lovely flavor as well. Just skip the butter step if you’re looking for a dairy-free option!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover filet mignon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, or in the microwave at a lower power setting to avoid overcooking.
