How to Cook the Perfect Filet Mignon: A Step-by-Step Guide

I. Introduction

If you’re looking to impress your dinner guests or indulge in a special evening meal, a filet mignon is an excellent choice. It’s delicious, juicy, and luxurious, but it can also be intimidating to cook if you don’t know where to start. This article provides a comprehensive guide for making the perfect filet mignon every time.

II. Step-by-Step Recipe

To cook the perfect filet mignon, you’ll need:

2 filet mignon steaks, about 1-2 inches thick
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 tablespoon of kosher salt
1 tablespoon of freshly cracked black pepper
3 cloves of minced garlic
3-4 sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and chopped herbs.

Rub the spice mixture all over the steaks, making sure to coat both sides evenly.

Preheat a cast-iron skillet over high heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Sear the steaks on one side for about 3-4 minutes until a golden brown crust forms on the bottom.

Using tongs, flip the steaks over and sear the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes.

If you prefer your steak medium-rare, place the skillet in the oven for 6-8 minutes. If you prefer it more well-done, increase the cooking time in the oven accordingly.

Once the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing and serving.

III. Tips and Tricks

Cooking the perfect filet mignon requires more than just following a recipe. Here are some tips and tricks to take your dish to the next level:

Choose a high-quality cut: Make sure to choose a filet mignon that is at least 1-2 inches thick and has good marbling. Avoid pre-packaged filet mignon, if possible, and ask your butcher for a fresh cut.
Bring the steak to room temperature: Take the steak out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before you plan to cook it. This helps ensure even cooking and a juicier steak.
Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your steak is cooked to your desired doneness, invest in a meat thermometer. For rare, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F. Medium-rare should be around 130-135°F, and medium should be 140°F.
Rest your steak: After cooking, let your filet mignon rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes for a more flavorful dish.

IV. Different Cooking Methods

There are a few different ways to cook filet mignon, depending on your preferences and equipment. Here are three popular methods:

Grilling:

Preheat your grill to 400°F. Brush the steaks with oil and seasonings and then grill for 4-6 minutes on each side, depending on your desired level of doneness.

Cast-iron skillet:

Preheat a cast-iron skillet over high heat for about 5-7 minutes. Add oil to the pan and then sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side. Place the skillet in the oven to continue cooking until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Oven:

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place your seasoned filet mignon in a baking dish and roast for 10-15 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Each method has its pros and cons, so choose the one that works best for your preferences and equipment. For beginners, the cast-iron skillet method is the easiest to master.

V. Pairings and Sides

Pair your filet mignon with some delicious side dishes to elevate the dish even further:

Wine pairings: A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the richness of the steak. For a lighter choice, Pinot Noir is a great option.
Sauces and condiments: Béarnaise sauce or red wine sauce pairs perfectly with filet mignon. If you prefer something simpler, consider a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Side dishes: Common side dishes for steak include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a crisp green salad. Consider adding a savory mushroom gravy or creamed spinach for an extra delicious complement.

VI. Troubleshooting

Cooking the perfect filet mignon can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix them:

Overcooking: If you overcook the steak and it ends up too dry, try adding some butter or sauce when serving. Next time, aim for a shorter cooking time or lower temperature in the oven.
Under-seasoning: If your steak is under-seasoned, perk it up with some salt and pepper before serving. Next time, be sure to season the steak generously before cooking.
Burning: If your steak starts to burn, turn down the heat and adjust cooking time according to the changes made.

VII. Recipe Variations

If you’re looking to mix things up, try one of these delicious recipe variations:

Bacon-wrapped filet mignon
Stuffed filet mignon
Topped with a rich blue cheese sauce
Sprinkled with a gremolata of garlic, lemon zest, and parsley

VIII. Conclusion

Cooking the perfect filet mignon is all about choosing a high-quality cut, using proper seasoning and cooking techniques, and complementing it with tasty side dishes and a good wine. Follow these tips and tricks, and remember to trust your thermometer and your taste buds. With a little practice, you’ll be able to make the perfect filet mignon every time.