How to Cook Filet Mignon

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Cook Time: 10 minutes

This elegant filet mignon recipe, paired with a creamy mushroom pan sauce, makes for an exquisite dish perfect for any special occasion. The filet mignon is a prized cut of beef, known for its tenderness and rich flavor, making it an ideal choice for a sophisticated meal.

Filet mignon is a tender cut of beef taken from the short loin of the cow, an area that doesnt experience much muscle movement, which contributes to the meat's tender texture. This recipe allows the natural flavors of the filet mignon to shine while enhancing them with a rich and savory mushroom pan sauce.

How to Prepare Filet Mignon

Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked filet mignon, along with a luxurious mushroom sauce:

Ingredients

• 2 (8-ounce) filet mignon steaks
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter or herb butter (optional)
• For the Mushroom Pan Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 (8-ounce) package sliced baby portobello mushrooms
• cup white wine
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• cup heavy cream
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Directions

1. Step 1: Gather all your ingredients. Allow the steaks to come to room temperature by setting them out for about 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Step 2: Preheat your oven to 425F (220C). This will ensure the steaks cook evenly after searing.
3. Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, oven-proof skillet over high heat. Season one side of the steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Step 4: Place the steaks, seasoned side down, into the hot skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes, or until a rich golden brown crust forms.
5. Step 5: Season the other side of the steaks with salt and pepper, then flip the steaks. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes.
6. Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Depending on your preferred level of doneness, cook for:
   • 2 to 3 minutes for rare
   • 4 minutes for medium-rare
   • 5 to 7 minutes for medium
   • 8 minutes for medium-well
   • 1 to 2 more minutes for well done
7. Step 7: Remove the steaks from the skillet, add butter (if desired), and tent with foil. Let the steaks rest for 10 minutes to ensure they remain juicy.
8. Step 8: While the steaks are resting, return the skillet to the stovetop over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan drippings.
9. Step 9: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 5 minutes.
10. Step 10: Pour in the white wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon.
11. Step 11: Allow the wine to cook off, then stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and freshly cracked black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
12. Step 12: Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, if needed.
13. Step 13: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice to add a touch of brightness to the sauce. Serve the mushroom sauce over the filet mignon steaks.
14. Step 14: Serve and enjoy your perfectly cooked filet mignon with the creamy mushroom sauce!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition	Per Serving
Calories	1091
Total Fat	86g (110% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	38g (191% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	318mg (106% Daily Value)
Sodium	1532mg (67% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates	9g (3% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	3g (10% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	66g (131% Daily Value)
Iron	5mg (26% Daily Value)
Potassium	1365mg (29% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Filet mignon is a cut of beef thats known for its tenderness and delicate flavor. It comes from the tenderloin of the cow, a muscle that is not worked much, resulting in an incredibly soft texture. However, the filet mignon is more than just a great steak; it has a rich history, regional differences, and stands out from other similar dishes in several ways. Below, well explore its origins, variations, and where youre most likely to find it.

History of Filet Mignon

The origins of filet mignon can be traced back to France, where it is a traditional part of fine dining. The term "filet mignon" is French, with "filet" meaning "thick slice" and "mignon" meaning "small" or "cute". This particular cut of beef gained popularity in France during the 19th century, especially in upscale French bistros. Over time, it spread to the United States and became synonymous with luxury and gourmet cuisine. Filet mignon was first introduced in American high-end restaurants during the 20th century, cementing its status as a coveted dish for special occasions.

Regional Features and Variations

While filet mignon is most commonly associated with French cuisine, it has been embraced worldwide with regional variations. In France, filet mignon is often served with rich, flavorful sauces such as barnaise or a red wine reduction. In the United States, it is commonly paired with creamy mushroom sauces, garlic butter, or served alongside sides like mashed potatoes and grilled vegetables.

In Argentina, renowned for its beef, filet mignon is often grilled, or asado, on a parrilla (traditional grill). This grilling technique brings out the natural flavors of the meat, which are enhanced by simple seasoning with salt and pepper.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Compared to other steak cuts, filet mignon is prized for its tenderness rather than its flavor. It is often considered one of the most tender cuts, but its less marbled with fat compared to cuts like ribeye or sirloin. This lack of fat gives filet mignon a milder flavor, which is why it is commonly paired with rich sauces or butters to complement its subtle taste. Another key difference is its shapeit is a round, thick steak, making it visually distinct from other cuts like T-bone or Porterhouse, which are larger and contain both a strip steak and a tenderloin portion.

Where Is Filet Mignon Typically Served?

Filet mignon is most commonly served in high-end steakhouses, luxury restaurants, and upscale bistros around the world. In the U.S., it is often featured as a centerpiece in holiday meals, celebratory dinners, or fine dining experiences. Youre also likely to find it served at weddings, anniversaries, or romantic dinners. Its reputation as a "special occasion" meal is due to both its high price point and its association with gourmet dining.

Interesting Facts About Filet Mignon

• The tenderloin, the source of filet mignon, is a relatively small muscle, which is why the cut is limited in supply and considered a delicacy.
• Because of its tenderness, filet mignon is one of the most expensive cuts of beef, often costing more than other cuts like ribeye or New York strip.
• Filet mignon is sometimes wrapped in bacon before being grilled or pan-seared. The bacon helps to add flavor and moisture, which enhances the mild taste of the meat.
• In some cultures, filet mignon is served as part of a tasting menu, paired with wines that complement its delicate flavors. For example, a light, fruity red wine like Pinot Noir can pair beautifully with this cut.
• It is often recommended to cook filet mignon to no more than medium-rare, as cooking it beyond that can result in a loss of tenderness.

FAQ about How to Cook Filet Mignon

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