Do you find yourself dreaming of a tender, buttery cut of steak bathing in rich, beefy juices? If so, Filet Mignon is the answer to your craving!

While dining out for filet mignon often feels like a luxurious splurge, there’s no reason you can’t replicate that indulgence at home without stepping into a fancy restaurant. I used to think preparing filet mignon was daunting, but I learned it’s actually one of the simplest steaks to cook right in your own kitchen.

The secret? A trusty meat thermometer ensures that you hit your desired level of doneness every single time. Beyond that, it’s super easy.

So, whether you’re planning an intimate date night or simply yearning for a mouthwatering steak, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into making some restaurant-quality filet mignon!

Ingredients For Filet Mignon

• Filet Mignon: Choose steaks weighing about 6-8 ounces each and around 1.5 inches thick. Look for cuts that are deep red with no silver skin or connective tissue.
• Oil: Use any neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil or avocado oil.
• Basting Butter: A mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs is perfect for basting as it cooks, sealing in moisture and rich flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Don’t skimp on seasoning—generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides before cooking.

How to Cook Filet Mignon

Are you ready to impress? Here’s a simple guide on how to cook filet mignon like a seasoned pro.

1. Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.

2. Sear the Steaks

Warm a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle in the oil and swirl it around to coat the pan. Place the steaks in the pan, letting them sear for about 2-3 minutes, until a lovely golden-brown crust forms.

3. Flip and Baste

Carefully flip the steaks over and reduce the heat to medium. Add your butter, garlic, and any herb sprigs you choose. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks with the melting butter and flavorful aromatics.

4. Finish in the Oven

Transfer the steaks to the oven and let them roast for about 3-5 minutes, or until they reach your preferred level of doneness. For reference, aim for 120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, and 140°F for medium.

5. Rest

Transfer the steaks to a plate and tent them loosely with aluminum foil. Allow them to rest for about 5 minutes, so the juices have a chance to redistribute throughout the meat.

6. Serve

Now it’s time to enjoy your creation! Serve your filet mignon with a dollop of garlic butter or a dash of A1 steak sauce, accompanied by your favorite sides.

How Long Do I Cook Filet Mignon?

As a general guide, remember to pull the steaks from the heat a few degrees below your target doneness. They will continue to cook as they rest. Here’s a quick chart to help you time it right:

Note: Cooking steak past 165°F can result in drying and toughness, so keep an eye on the temperature!

Tips and Tricks

• Let the Meat Come to Room Temperature: Pull the steak from the fridge about 30-60 minutes before you plan to cook it. This helps it cook more evenly. Don’t forget to pat it dry with paper towels.
• Be Patient with Flipping: If the steak is sticking to the pan, it’s not ready for a flip. It should release by itself when properly seared.
• Avoid Overcooking: Remove the steaks from heat when they’re 3-4 degrees below your target temperature, as they’ll continue cooking while resting.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For the most accurate readings, insert the thermometer from the side instead of the top to maintain a neat presentation.
• Rest for Juiciness: Allowing the steaks to rest for 5-7 minutes ensures they remain juicy and tender.
• Slice Against the Grain: This small step helps create neater slices for serving.

How To Serve Filet Mignon

No steak dinner is complete without delicious sides to accompany it. Personally, I love pairing filet mignon with creamy mashed potatoes, but the options are endless. Here are a few fantastic side dishes to consider:

• Sautéed Garlic Green Beans
• Creamy Risotto
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts
• Classic Caesar Salad
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Storage Tips

For the best flavor and texture, enjoy your filet mignon right after it’s cooked. If you do have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

To Store: Refrigerate the steaks, either whole or sliced, for up to 3-5 days.

To Freeze: Allow the steaks to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can store them for up to 3 months.

To Reheat: Thaw the steaks in the fridge overnight, then 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