If you’re looking for a luxurious meal that’s sure to impress, filet mignon is a classic choice. This cut of beef is known for its tenderness and buttery flavor, making it a top choice for steak lovers. But how do you cook the perfect filet mignon at home? With the right recipe and technique, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
One important thing to keep in mind when cooking filet mignon is that it’s a lean cut of meat, which means it can easily dry out if overcooked. That’s why it’s important to use a cooking method that will help retain its moisture and tenderness. Some popular options include pan-searing, grilling, or broiling. Additionally, seasoning the steak with salt and pepper before cooking is key to bringing out its natural flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to a delicious meal, learning how to cook filet mignon is a skill worth mastering. With the right recipe and technique, you can create a mouthwatering steak that’s sure to impress. So, grab your apron and get ready to elevate your home cooking game with this classic dish.
Understanding Filet Mignon
If you’re looking for a treat or a luxury for a special occasion, filet mignon is a great choice. Filet mignon is a steak cut from the beef tenderloin, which is a lean cut of meat that runs along the sides of the cow’s spine. It is known for being one of the most tender cuts of beef, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Filet mignon is a popular choice at high-end steakhouses because of its tenderness and flavor. It is also a favorite for home cooks who want to impress their guests with a delicious and elegant meal.
When it comes to cooking filet mignon, it’s important to remember that it is a lean cut of meat, which means it can dry out quickly if overcooked. For this reason, it’s essential to cook it properly to ensure that it stays tender and juicy.
One of the most popular ways to cook filet mignon is by searing it in a hot skillet and then finishing it in the oven. This method allows you to get a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
When shopping for filet mignon, look for steaks that are evenly sized and have a good amount of marbling. Marbling refers to the small flecks of fat that are dispersed throughout the meat. This fat helps to keep the meat moist and adds flavor.
In summary, filet mignon is a tender and flavorful cut of beef that is perfect for a special occasion or a treat. It is a lean cut of meat that requires proper cooking to ensure that it stays tender and juicy. When shopping for filet mignon, look for steaks that are evenly sized and have a good amount of marbling.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare a delicious filet mignon, you will need a few key ingredients. Here is a list of the ingredients you will need:
- Filet mignon (6 oz per serving)
- Salt (coarse or sea salt)
- Black pepper (freshly ground)
- Olive oil (or other high-heat oil)
- Unsalted butter (or compound butter)
- Garlic (1-2 cloves per serving)
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme)
Before you start cooking, make sure to take the filet mignon out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly.
To season the filet mignon, sprinkle a generous amount of salt and pepper on both sides of the steak. Then, rub a small amount of olive oil on each side of the steak.
Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, add the garlic and herbs to the pan. Cook for about a minute until fragrant.
Finally, add the filet mignon to the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. For a more well-done steak, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side.
Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more flavorful and tender filet mignon.
Cookware Required
To cook a perfect filet mignon, you will need the right cookware. Here are the essential tools you will need:
Skillet or Cast Iron Skillet
A skillet or cast iron skillet is a must-have when cooking filet mignon. These pans are perfect for searing the steak and creating a delicious crust. A cast iron skillet is preferred by many because it retains heat well and distributes it evenly.
Oven
An oven is needed to finish cooking the filet mignon after searing it on the stove. Preheat the oven to 400°F and place the skillet with the steak in the oven to finish cooking.
Tongs
Tongs are essential for handling the filet mignon when searing it and flipping it over. They allow you to get a good grip on the steak without piercing it, which would release the juices and dry it out.
Cutting Board
Once the filet mignon is cooked, it needs to rest for a few minutes before slicing. A cutting board is necessary to hold the steak while it rests.
Paper Towels
Before searing the filet mignon, it needs to be patted dry with paper towels. This removes any excess moisture, allowing for a better sear.
Cast Iron Pan or Grill
If you don’t have a skillet or cast iron skillet, a cast iron pan or grill can be used instead. These options will also give the steak a great sear and flavor.
In summary, to cook the perfect filet mignon, you will need a skillet or cast iron skillet, an oven, tongs, a cutting board, paper towels, and a cast iron pan or grill. With these tools, you will be able to create a delicious and tender steak that will impress your guests.
Preparation Before Cooking
Before you start cooking your filet mignon, there are a few essential preparation steps to follow to ensure that your steak turns out perfectly.
Room Temperature
First, you want to make sure your steak is at room temperature before cooking. This is important because if the steak is too cold, it will take longer to cook, and the inside may not cook evenly. To bring your steak to room temperature, take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Preheat
Next, preheat your oven or grill to the desired temperature. For oven cooking, preheat to 450°F. For grilling, preheat to high heat.
Ingredients
When it comes to ingredients, you want to keep it simple. All you really need is a high-quality filet mignon steak, salt, pepper, and oil. You can also add some butter and herbs for extra flavor.
Seasoning
Season your steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika if you prefer.
Rest
Finally, after cooking your steak, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures that the steak stays juicy and tender.
By following these preparation steps, you’ll be well on your way to cooking a perfect filet mignon every time.
Cooking the Filet Mignon
Cooking a perfect filet mignon requires precision and attention to detail. There are several ways to cook a filet mignon, including pan-searing, grilling, or oven-baking. However, the most popular method is pan-searing on a stovetop.
To cook a filet mignon, start by removing the steak from the fridge and letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. This will help the steak cook evenly. Preheat a skillet over high heat until it’s very hot. You can also use a grill pan for a nice grill mark on the steak.
Season the steak with salt and pepper, or your favorite seasoning. Add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet and let it heat up. Once the skillet is hot, add the steak to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side to sear the steak. This will give the steak a nice crust on the outside.
After searing the steak, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking until it reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a rare steak, cook until the internal temperature reaches 125°F. For medium-rare, cook until the internal temperature reaches 135°F. For medium, cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. For medium-well, cook until the internal temperature reaches 150°F. For well-done, cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Once the steak reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and keep the steak moist.
In summary, cooking a filet mignon requires high heat to sear the steak and finish cooking it to your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and let the steak rest before serving for the best results.
Additional Cooking Options
There are many ways to cook filet mignon, each with its unique flavor and texture. Here are some additional cooking options you can try to make your filet mignon even more delicious.
Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon
Bacon-wrapped filet mignon is a classic and delicious way to prepare this steak. To make it, simply wrap a slice of bacon around the filet and secure it with a toothpick. Then, season the steak with salt and pepper and cook it on a grill or in a skillet until it reaches your desired level of doneness. The bacon adds a smoky flavor and helps keep the steak juicy.
Chili Rubbed Filet Mignon
If you like a little spice, try using a chili rub on your filet mignon. Mix together chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and rub it onto the steak before cooking. This will give your steak a delicious, slightly spicy flavor.
Herb Butter Filet Mignon
Herb butter is a simple but flavorful addition to filet mignon. To make it, mix softened butter with chopped herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Then, cook your steak as you normally would and top it with a dollop of the herb butter. The butter will melt and add a rich, herbaceous flavor to the steak.
Infused Filet Mignon
Infusing your filet mignon with flavors like garlic or rosemary can add a subtle but delicious twist to this classic dish. To infuse your steak, simply crush garlic or rosemary and mix it with olive oil. Then, brush the mixture onto the steak before cooking. This will infuse the flavors into the meat as it cooks, giving it a unique and delicious taste.
In summary, there are many ways to cook filet mignon, and these additional cooking options can help you take your steak to the next level. Whether you choose to wrap it in bacon, rub it with chili, top it with herb butter, or infuse it with garlic or rosemary, these variations will add a new dimension of flavor to this classic dish.
Serving the Filet Mignon
Once your filet mignon is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy your delicious meal. Here are some tips on how to serve your filet mignon:
Plating
When it comes to plating, you can either serve the filet mignon on its own or with a side dish. Some popular side dishes to serve with filet mignon include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
To plate the filet mignon, use a large plate and place the steak in the center. If you’re serving a side dish, arrange it next to the steak. You can also garnish the steak with some fresh herbs or a sauce if desired.
Using a Spoon
When eating your filet mignon, it’s important to use a spoon to help cut through the meat. Simply rest the side of the spoon against the steak and use it to cut through the meat. This will help prevent the steak from sliding around on your plate and make it easier to eat.
Pairing with Other Steaks
If you’re serving filet mignon alongside other steaks, it’s important to keep in mind the differences between the cuts. T-bone and New York strip steaks are both flavorful and tender, but they have a slightly different texture and flavor profile than filet mignon.
Temperature and Doneness
When serving filet mignon, it’s important to make sure it’s cooked to the correct temperature and doneness. For medium doneness, the internal temperature of the steak should be around 140°F to 145°F.
Timing
Timing is also important when serving filet mignon. Make sure to let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and prevent them from spilling out when you cut into the meat.
Overall, serving filet mignon is simple and straightforward. With the right plating, utensils, and timing, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
When it comes to cooking filet mignon, there are a few common mistakes that can ruin your meal. Here are some tips to avoid these pitfalls and ensure a perfectly cooked steak every time.
Overcooking
One of the most common mistakes when cooking filet mignon is overcooking it. This can result in a dry, tough, and flavorless steak. To avoid overcooking, make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should be around 135°F. Remove the steak from the heat source when it reaches this temperature and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Burning
Another mistake that can ruin your filet mignon is burning it. This can happen if the heat source is too high or if the steak is left on the heat for too long. To avoid burning, make sure to use a high smoke point oil like grapeseed or avocado oil when searing the steak. Also, do not overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the steak to steam instead of sear.
Not Letting the Steak Rest
After cooking your filet mignon, it is important to let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more flavorful and tender cut of meat. If you cut into the steak too soon, the juices will run out and the steak will be dry.
By following these tips, you can avoid common mistakes when cooking filet mignon and enjoy a delicious and perfectly cooked steak every time.
Nutritional Information
If you’re watching your diet, it’s important to know the nutritional information of filet mignon. Here is a breakdown of the nutritional content of a 6-ounce serving of filet mignon, according to Steak University:
- Calories: 340
- Total Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 123 mg
- Sodium: 63 mg
- Potassium: 450 mg
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 33 g
As you can see, filet mignon is a high-protein, low-carb food. It is also a good source of potassium, which can help lower blood pressure. However, it is high in saturated fat, so it should be consumed in moderation.
It’s also worth noting that filet mignon is typically served in larger portions than other cuts of beef. A typical serving size is 6 ounces, which contains 340 calories. If you’re trying to watch your calorie intake, it’s important to keep this in mind and adjust your portion sizes accordingly.
While filet mignon is a delicious and tender cut of beef, it is important to be aware of its nutritional content and consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to pairing a delicious filet mignon with the perfect side dish and beverage, there are a few things to keep in mind. You want to choose a side dish that complements the rich, meaty flavor of the steak without overpowering it. Additionally, the right wine can enhance the flavors of both the steak and the side dish, making for a truly memorable dining experience.
Side Dish Suggestions
Here are a few tried-and-true side dish suggestions to consider when serving filet mignon:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and adds a nice crunch to your meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with steak. For added flavor, try mixing in some roasted garlic or grated Parmesan cheese.
- Grilled Corn: Grilling corn on the cob adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the rich flavor of filet mignon. Brush the corn with butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper for a simple yet delicious side dish.
- Creamed Spinach: This decadent side dish is a favorite at many steakhouses for good reason. The creamy, cheesy spinach complements the steak without overpowering it.
Wine Pairings
Choosing the right wine to pair with your filet mignon can elevate your dining experience to the next level. Here are a few wine suggestions to consider:
- Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs well with filet mignon. These wines have bold flavors that can stand up to the richness of the steak.
- White Wine: If you prefer white wine, try a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines have a crisp acidity that can cut through the richness of the steak and complement the flavors of your side dish.
- Rosé: For a lighter option, consider a dry rosé. The fruity notes in the wine can bring out the flavors of the steak and add a refreshing touch to your meal.
Keep in mind that wine pairing is subjective, and you should choose a wine that you enjoy drinking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find the perfect pairing for your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to cook a thick filet mignon?
The best way to cook a thick filet mignon is to sear it first on high heat to create a crust, then finish cooking it in the oven at a lower temperature. This ensures that the inside is cooked evenly and the outside is crispy.
How long to cook filet mignon in oven?
The cooking time for filet mignon in the oven depends on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, a 1-inch thick filet mignon should be cooked for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare, 12-14 minutes for medium, and 14-16 minutes for well-done.
What should I season filet mignon with?
Filet mignon is a tender cut of beef that doesn’t need a lot of seasoning. A simple seasoning of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper is enough to bring out the natural flavor of the steak. You can also add garlic, thyme, rosemary, or other herbs for additional flavor.
Is it better to grill or pan fry filet mignon?
Both grilling and pan frying can produce delicious filet mignon. Grilling gives the steak a smoky flavor and charred crust, while pan frying allows you to cook the steak in its own juices for a more tender and flavorful result. It ultimately depends on personal preference and the equipment available.
How is filet mignon supposed to be cooked?
Filet mignon is a lean cut of beef that is best cooked to medium-rare or medium to preserve its tenderness and flavor. Overcooking can result in a dry and tough steak.
What are some elegant filet mignon recipes?
Some elegant filet mignon recipes include topping the steak with a red wine reduction or compound butter, wrapping it in bacon, or serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
