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Perfect Filet Mignon Recipe for an Easy Romantic Anniversary Dinner at Home

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A foolproof filet mignon recipe that delivers tender, juicy, and restaurant-quality steak at home, perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz / 170 g each, 1.5 to 2 inches thick)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, smashed
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
  • Coarse kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: splash of red wine or beef stock for pan sauce

Instructions

  1. Bring the steaks to room temperature by letting them sit covered on the counter for about 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
  3. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season generously with coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.
  4. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  5. Sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side until a deep, golden crust forms. Also sear the edges briefly by holding the steak upright.
  6. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, smashed garlic, and thyme sprigs to the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the pan and spoon the butter over the steaks repeatedly to baste.
  7. Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 5-7 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature 130-135Β°F / 54-57Β°C). For medium, add 1-2 minutes.
  8. Remove steaks from the oven and transfer to a plate. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  9. Slice against the grain if desired and serve immediately. Optionally, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before serving.
  10. Optional: To make a quick pan sauce, place the skillet back on medium heat, add a splash of red wine or beef stock, scrape up browned bits, reduce slightly, and drizzle over the filet.

Notes

Do not skip resting the steak after cooking to keep it juicy. Use high heat for searing to develop a flavorful crust. If you don’t have a thermometer, check doneness by touch comparing firmness to the fleshy part below your thumb. Basting with butter adds moisture and flavor. Prepare all ingredients and equipment before starting as filet mignon cooks quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: filet mignon, steak recipe, romantic dinner, anniversary dinner, easy steak, pan-seared steak, oven-finished steak