Skillet Filet Mignon: Easy Recipe for a Gourmet Meal

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Cooking filet mignon in a skillet is simple yet impressive. You can achieve a restaurant-quality meal at home using a few straightforward steps and minimal ingredients.

Begin by seasoning your steak well and searing it on a hot skillet for that perfect crust. Adding a touch of garlic herb butter elevates the flavor, making each bite rich and delicious. It’s all about the right technique to bring out the best in this tender cut.

You’ll enjoy how quickly this dish comes together, perfect for a special dinner without much fuss. Ready to impress? Keep reading for more tips and tricks!

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

Ingredients:

• Filet Mignon Steaks (6-8 oz each)

  • Substitute: Beef tenderloin or sirloin steak

• Salt and Pepper

  • No substitutes needed

• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)

  • Substitute: Canola oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil

• Butter (1-2 tablespoons)

  • Substitute: Ghee or margarine

Optional Ingredients:

• Garlic Cloves (2-3, smashed)

  • Substitute: Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)

• Fresh Herbs (Thyme/Rosemary)

  • Substitute: Dried thyme or rosemary

For Oven Finishing (if using):

• Extra Butter (1-2 tablespoons)
  • Same substitutes as above

Keep your ingredients simple and fresh to let the flavor of the filet mignon shine. Use high-quality oil and butter to get the best sear and taste.

Instructions

1. 
   

   Prepare the Steaks
   Take your filet mignon out of the fridge. Let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes to reach room temperature.

   
   
2. 
   

   Season the Meat
   Season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper.

   
   
3. 
   

   Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).

   
   
4. 
   

   Heat the Skillet
   Place a cast iron skillet on the stovetop. Turn the heat to medium-high. Add a tablespoon of oil and let it get hot until it shimmers.

   
   
5. 
   

   Sear the Steaks
   Carefully place the steaks in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms.

   
   
6. 
   

   Finish in the Oven
   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Let the steaks cook for about 3 more minutes, or until they reach your desired doneness.

   
   
7. 
   

   Add Garlic Herb Butter (Optional)
   If you like, melt some butter in the skillet. Add garlic and herbs. Baste the steaks with the flavorful butter for an extra touch.

   
   
8. 
   

   Rest the Steaks
   Remove the steaks from the oven. Let them rest on a plate for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat juicier.

   
   

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Tips and Tricks

• Season Generously: Use salt and pepper to season all sides of your filet mignon.
• Preheat Your Pan: Make sure your cast iron or oven-safe skillet is very hot before adding the steak. This ensures a perfect sear.
• Sear Perfectly: Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side to get a golden-brown crust. Avoid moving the steak while searing.
• Use Oil Wisely: Heat oil until it shimmers before adding the steak. This helps in achieving that beautiful crust.
• Finish in the Oven: After searing, you can transfer the steak to the oven set at 425°F to finish cooking. This ensures an even cook throughout.

Storing Leftovers

• Cool First: Let the steak cool to room temperature.
• Wrap Carefully: Wrap the steak tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
• Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place the wrapped steak in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat Properly: When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, or in the oven at a low temperature to retain moisture.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

Recipe Variations

Garlic Herb Butter: After searing, add a mix of butter, crushed garlic, and fresh herbs. Spoon the melted butter over your steak for extra flavor.

Peppercorn Crust: Coat your filet mignon with cracked black pepper before searing for a spicy kick.

Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap a piece of bacon around the filet before cooking. Secure it with toothpicks for a rich, smoky taste.

Mushroom Sauce: Cook chopped mushrooms in the same skillet after searing the steak. Add cream and a splash of wine for a delicious sauce.

Blue Cheese Crumbles: After searing, top the steak with blue cheese crumbles. Let them melt during the oven cooking step for a tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes:

• Mashed Potatoes: Classic and creamy, they pair perfectly with a juicy filet.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy option.
• Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the steak.

Sauces:

• Red Wine Sauce: Adds depth and richness.
• Bearnaise Sauce: A creamy, tangy accompaniment.

Wine Pairing:

• Red Wine: A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complements the flavors of the filet mignon.

Experimenting with these variations and serving suggestions helps you find your perfect combination. Enjoy your cooking adventure!