This Filet Mignon with Garlic Herb Butter is the epitome of a decadent yet simple dish. The tender, juicy steak is seared to perfection and complemented by a luscious, aromatic garlic herb butter that melts right over the top, creating an indulgent flavor experience with every bite.
Perfect for a special occasion or a luxurious weeknight dinner, this dish brings restaurant-quality results right to your home kitchen. The combination of fresh herbs and butter elevates the rich, beefy taste of the filet mignon, making it a dish that is sure to impress. Serve it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal that feels both sophisticated and comforting.
Full Recipe:
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2 filet mignon steaks
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
Directions:
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Remove filet mignon steaks from the refrigerator and let them rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the steaks and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
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Add the butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and parsley to the skillet. Baste the steaks with the melted butter mixture for 1-2 minutes.
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Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook for 6-8 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust time for desired doneness.
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Remove from the oven and let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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Drizzle the garlic herb butter over the steaks and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Why Filet Mignon is So Special
The filet mignon’s special status comes from its tenderness. Unlike other cuts, which may be tougher due to more muscle activity, the filet mignon remains incredibly soft, making it ideal for those who prefer a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This particular cut also has a lower fat content compared to other beef steaks, which makes it a popular choice for those watching their calorie intake but still wanting a flavorful piece of meat.
Cooking a perfect filet mignon requires attention to detail, and that’s why many home chefs turn to high-quality cuts and expert techniques to achieve optimal results. A simple seasoning of salt and pepper can go a long way, but the addition of garlic herb butter introduces layers of depth, enriching the steak with savory, buttery goodness.
How to Cook the Perfect Filet Mignon
While filet mignon is often regarded as a “fancy” dish, it’s actually relatively easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple steps to achieve a steakhouse-quality meal. The key to cooking the perfect filet mignon lies in two things: the sear and the resting time.
Searing is a crucial step because it creates a flavorful crust on the outside of the steak, locking in juices and enhancing the flavor. This is typically done by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and searing the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side. Once the steak is browned to perfection, you can add the garlic herb butter and finish the cooking process in the oven, allowing the butter to melt into the steak while it cooks.
Resting is just as important as cooking. After the filet mignon is removed from the heat, it should be allowed to rest for a few minutes. This step ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, preventing them from spilling out when cut, which would otherwise result in a dry steak.
The Magic of Garlic Herb Butter
One of the best parts of filet mignon with garlic herb butter is the flavor boost that the butter provides. Garlic herb butter is a simple mixture of butter, fresh herbs, garlic, and sometimes a touch of lemon juice or zest. When placed atop the warm steak, the butter melts slowly, infusing the steak with rich, aromatic flavors.
The garlic adds a savory and slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the meaty, rich taste of the filet mignon. The herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley, contribute freshness and earthiness, balancing out the richness of the butter and beef. The lemon adds a zesty touch that cuts through the richness, ensuring the dish doesn’t feel too heavy.
Garlic herb butter is an essential component of this dish because it complements the natural flavors of the steak without overpowering it. The beauty of this butter is in its simplicity; a few high-quality ingredients come together to create a complex, mouthwatering topping that can elevate even the most basic cut of meat.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
While the filet mignon with garlic herb butter is delicious on its own, there are several ways to serve it and enhance the meal further. Some popular side dishes include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The sides should complement the richness of the steak without competing with its flavor.
For a more indulgent meal, consider pairing the filet mignon with a creamy sauce such as a béarnaise or a red wine reduction. These sauces bring a layer of sophistication to the meal and add depth to the overall flavor profile.
Wine Pairing for Filet Mignon
When it comes to wine, filet mignon pairs beautifully with full-bodied reds, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Malbec. These wines have the tannin structure to cut through the richness of the steak and the garlic herb butter, balancing the flavors without overwhelming the palate. A bold red wine like these can bring out the steak’s natural umami flavor, making each bite more flavorful.
If you prefer white wine, a full-bodied Chardonnay with oak aging can also pair well, as the butteriness of the wine complements the richness of the garlic herb butter.
Conclusion: A Luxurious Meal You Can Make at Home
Filet mignon with garlic herb butter is one of those dishes that makes you feel like you’re dining at a high-end restaurant, but with the comfort of enjoying it in your own home. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the perfect technique, allows the natural flavors of the beef to shine through, while the garlic herb butter adds the perfect finishing touch.
Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a luxurious meal, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s a versatile dish that can be served with a wide range of sides and paired with your favorite wine, making it a go-to for gourmet dining at home. With just a few ingredients and some care in the cooking process, you can create a meal that’s both decadent and satisfying.
This filet mignon recipe with garlic herb butter is an ideal choice for anyone looking to elevate their culinary skills and indulge in an unforgettable steak dinner.
The Ultimate Special Occasion Dish
This dish is perfect for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or holiday celebrations. The filet mignon with garlic herb butter offers an air of elegance and sophistication, but with the comfort of a classic steakhouse experience. When you want to create a memorable meal for your loved ones or impress your guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Additionally, you can customize it to your liking by adjusting the garlic herb butter’s flavor profile or experimenting with different herbs and spices. The filet mignon itself is versatile enough to take on a wide variety of seasoning profiles, from simple salt and pepper to more adventurous flavor combinations.
By mastering this recipe, you’re sure to impress anyone who tries it. After all, there’s no better way to show love and appreciation than by serving a beautiful, delicious steak that was made with care and attention.