Fillet steak is one of the most tender and luxurious cuts of beef you can enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, knowing how to cook fillet steak properly makes all the difference. This guide will walk you through simple, foolproof steps to get a juicy, flavorful fillet steak with a beautiful crust and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
What Makes Fillet Steak Special?
Fillet steak, also known as filet mignon, comes from the tenderloin of the cow. It’s prized for its tenderness because it’s a muscle that doesn’t do much work. This means it’s lean with very little fat marbling, so it cooks quickly and benefits from careful handling to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Preparing Your Fillet Steak
Bring It to Room Temperature
Take your fillet steak out of the fridge about 30 to 40 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside warms up.
Season Generously
Pat the steak dry with a paper towel to remove moisture. Then season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add minced garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary for extra flavor.
Cooking Fillet Steak: Step-by-Step
1. Preheat Your Pan or Grill
Use a heavy-based skillet, preferably cast iron, or a grill. Heat it over high heat until it’s almost smoking. This high heat is crucial for creating a deep, crusty sear on the steak.
2. Sear the Steak
Add a small amount of oil with a high smoke point (like avocado or olive oil) to the pan. Place the steak in the hot pan and sear without moving it for about:
– 2-3 minutes per side for rare
– 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare
– 6-7 minutes per side for medium
If your fillet is about 1 inch thick, these times will give you a good guideline. Don’t forget to also sear the edges by rolling the steak on its side for about 1 minute.
3. Add Butter and Aromatics
During the last minute of searing, add butter, crushed garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary or thyme to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steak with the melted butter. This adds richness and flavor.
4. Finish in the Oven (Optional)
For thicker fillets or if you want more precise control, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 4 to 10 minutes depending on your preferred doneness.
5. Check Doneness
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature:
– Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
– Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
– Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
Remember the steak will continue to cook a bit while resting.
6. Rest Your Steak
Remove the steak from heat and let it rest for 5 to 7 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak juicy and tender when you cut into it.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Fillet Steak
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook one or two steaks at a time to maintain high heat.
– Use a heavy pan: Cast iron or stainless steel pans hold heat well for a better sear.
– Patience is key: Let the steak develop a nice crust before flipping.
– Use tongs, not a fork: Piercing the steak lets juices escape.
– Butter basting: Adds flavor and keeps the steak moist.
– Resting is essential: Never skip resting or you’ll lose precious juices.
What to Serve with Fillet Steak
Fillet steak pairs beautifully with simple, flavorful sides like:
– Garlic herb butter melted on top
– Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
– Sautéed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or Brussels sprouts
– A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
– Rich sauces like Béarnaise, red wine reduction, or peppercorn sauce
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Cooking steak straight from the fridge – it cooks unevenly.
– Using a low heat pan – you won’t get a good sear.
– Overcooking – fillet is best enjoyed rare to medium-rare.
– Skipping the rest – leads to dry steak.
Cooking fillet steak at home can be simple and rewarding. With the right technique, you’ll impress yourself and your guests with a restaurant-quality steak that’s juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked fillet steak!
Perfect fillet steak is all about preparation, high heat, and patience. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal to savor every time.