Easy Filet Mignon at Home

Name: Easy Filet Mignon at Home
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 2 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; Fresh rosemary sprigs

Highlighted under: Ready-to-Serve

I love cooking, especially when I can create a delicious and elegant meal at home like filet mignon. This dish captures the essence of fine dining with minimal effort. I remember the first time I prepared this for a special occasion; the buttery tenderness and rich flavors left everyone asking for seconds. The best part? You don’t need fancy tools—just a good skillet and a few quality ingredients will elevate your dinner to restaurant-quality in under an hour. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:55:10.709Z

Cooking filet mignon at home is not only a luxury but also a gratifying adventure. I remember planning a surprise dinner for my partner, and I decided to try making this dish. To my surprise, the cooking process was simpler than I thought, and the result was absolutely heavenly. I learned that letting the steak rest before slicing is crucial as it locks in the juices.

This method of searing and then finishing in the oven yields a perfectly cooked steak every time. Pairing it with a red wine reduction made it even more special. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly tender and juicy steak cooked to your liking
Quick preparation time for a gourmet experience
Minimal ingredients yet full of flavor

Understanding Filet Mignon

Filet mignon, known for its exquisite tenderness, comes from the loin of the cow. This cut has less marbling than other steaks, making it low in fat but high in flavor. Choosing high-quality steaks is crucial. Look for a beautiful crimson color without any dark spots, indicating freshness. The thickness of the steaks should be around one and a half inches for optimal cooking, allowing a perfect sear while retaining the juicy interior.

When seasoning filet mignon, the salt plays a key role beyond flavor. It enhances the meat’s natural flavor while drawing out moisture, contributing to a crispy crust when seared. I recommend using coarse sea salt for even distribution atop the steak. The resting period before cooking is just as vital, allowing the meat to come to room temperature, which results in a more even cook and better texture.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Searing the steak at high heat is essential to lock in juices and develop a rich flavor profile. When searing, ensure your skillet is smoking hot; this can be tested by sprinkling a drop of water—if it sizzles and evaporates immediately, you’re ready. Using cast iron or stainless steel skillets is ideal, as they hold heat well and promote a perfect crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cooking in batches prevents steaming and promotes that beautiful browning.

Basting with butter during the cooking process adds richness and helps with flavor development. As you spoon melted butter over the steak, it also helps keep the meat moist. Don’t forget to add aromatics like garlic and rosemary, which infuse wonderful flavors into the dish. Let the steak cook to the desired doneness; for medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of around 130°F (54°C).

Ingredients

For the Filet Mignon

2 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 garlic cloves, crushed
Fresh rosemary sprigs

Instructions

Prepare the Steaks

Remove the filet mignon from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper.

Sear the Steaks

In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over high heat. Once hot, carefully add the steaks. Sear for 3-4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip the steaks and add the butter, garlic, and rosemary.

Finish Cooking

After flipping, spoon the melted butter over the steaks for flavor. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness is achieved.

Rest and Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven and place the steaks on a cutting board. Let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the skillet after removing the steaks, scraping up the bits for a delicious sauce.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover filet mignon, allow it to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss. The cooked steak can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Alternatively, if you wish to store it longer, vacuum-sealing works beautifully and can extend the shelf life to about 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain tenderness without overcooking.

For those looking to repurpose leftovers, consider slicing the filet into thin strips to use in salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes. This helps maintain its flavor profile while offering new meal options. Just reheat the slices enough to warm through; they’ll retain that buttery texture that makes filet mignon so delectable.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your filet mignon with delicious sides can elevate the dining experience. Classic options like garlic mashed potatoes or creamy risotto complement the richness of the steak. Alternatively, sautéed asparagus or a fresh arugula salad with a light vinaigrette add a refreshing contrast to the meal. Consider a red wine reduction sauce or a dollop of herb compound butter to further enhance the flavors.

To impress at dinner parties, serve the filet mignon with a side of au gratin potatoes or roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in bacon. Feel free to customize the sides based on what’s in season or your personal favorites. Remember, the key is balancing the richness of the steak with vibrant flavors from the accompanying dishes.

Questions About Recipes

→ How do I know when my filet mignon is done?

Use a meat thermometer: 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, you can use ribeye or sirloin, but cooking times may vary.

→ What should I serve with filet mignon?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement it well.

→ Is it necessary to rest the steak?

Yes, resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful steak.