Filet mignon is the ultimate indulgence for steak lovers-tender, juicy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. If you’ve ever wondered how do I cook a filet mignon at home like a pro, this guide will walk you through the foolproof steps to achieve steakhouse-quality results with ease. Whether it’s a special occasion or a treat-yourself dinner, you’ll impress everyone with your perfectly cooked filet mignon.
What You’ll Need
– 2 filet mignon steaks (about 8 ounces each)
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
– High-heat cooking oil (like avocado or olive oil)
– Butter (about 2 tablespoons)
– Fresh garlic cloves (2-5, peeled)
– Fresh rosemary sprigs (2-4)
– Oven-safe skillet (cast iron recommended)
Step 1: Bring the Steaks to Room Temperature
Take your filet mignon out of the fridge about 30 to 40 minutes before cooking. This step is crucial because it helps the steaks cook evenly and prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside warms up.
Step 2: Season Generously
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove moisture. Then, season all sides liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy here-seasoning is key to building flavor.
Step 3: Preheat Your Pan and Sear the Steaks
Heat your cast iron skillet over high heat until it’s very hot-this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Add a tablespoon or two of high-heat oil and wait until it shimmers.
Place the steaks in the pan and sear without moving them for 2-3 minutes per side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. Don’t forget to also sear the edges by rolling the steaks on their sides for about 1 minute to get every inch caramelized.
Step 4: Add Butter, Garlic, and Rosemary for Flavor
Once the steaks are seared on the main sides, flip them onto their final side. Add butter, garlic cloves, and rosemary sprigs to the pan. As the butter melts, baste the steaks by spooning the butter over the meat for about 1 minute. This adds rich flavor and keeps the filet moist.
Step 5: Finish Cooking in the Oven
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake the steaks for 4 to 10 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness:
– Rare: 4-5 minutes, internal temp 120°F (49°C)
– Medium-rare: 5-6 minutes, internal temp 130°F (54°C)
– Medium: 6-7 minutes, internal temp 140°F (60°C)
– Medium-well: 7-8 minutes, internal temp 150°F (65°C)
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature for perfect results.
Step 6: Rest the Steaks
Remove the filet mignon from the oven and transfer to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5 to 7 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Top your filet mignon with a pat of garlic herb butter or a drizzle of your favorite sauce like béarnaise for an extra touch of elegance. Serve alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
– Use a cast iron skillet for the best sear and even heat retention.
– Don’t skip the resting step; it’s essential for juicy steak.
– Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
– Basting with butter and aromatics like garlic and rosemary adds flavor and richness.
– Let your filet mignon come to room temperature before cooking for even doneness.
Cooking filet mignon at home is easier than you think. With these simple steps, you’ll create a restaurant-quality steak that’s tender, flavorful, and sure to impress. Enjoy your perfectly cooked filet mignon!