Filet Mignon with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe

Introduction

Filet Mignon with Garlic Herb Butter is the epitome of a decadent and flavorful meal, perfect for special occasions, date nights, or whenever you want to indulge in something truly exquisite. This recipe takes a tender, perfectly cooked filet mignon and pairs it with a rich, flavorful garlic herb butter that melts beautifully over the meat, enhancing its already amazing flavor.

Known for its tender texture and mild, buttery flavor, filet mignon is often considered one of the finest cuts of beef available. When you pair it with garlic, fresh herbs, and butter, you create a luxurious and melt-in-your-mouth experience. The combination of the perfectly seared steak and the aromatic, garlicky butter creates a dish that is both elegant and indulgent.

In this article, we’ll take you through how to prepare this delicious recipe step by step, discuss tips for cooking the perfect filet mignon, and offer ideas for sides and pairings that will elevate your meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to experiment in the kitchen, this recipe is simple yet impressive, making it the perfect dish to try out.

Why You’ll Love Filet Mignon with Garlic Herb Butter

• Tender and Flavorful Steak: Filet mignon is one of the most tender cuts of beef, and when it’s cooked to perfection, it practically melts in your mouth. The mild flavor makes it a great canvas for rich, flavorful toppings like garlic herb butter.
• Indulgent and Elegant: This dish is an indulgence, making it ideal for special occasions, romantic dinners, or any time you want to treat yourself to something special. The richness of the butter and the tenderness of the filet mignon create a luxurious experience.
• Quick and Easy to Make: While filet mignon may sound like a dish for experienced chefs, this recipe is surprisingly simple and quick to prepare. With just a few ingredients and some basic techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
• Perfectly Balanced: The savory garlic herb butter adds depth and richness to the filet mignon, but it doesn’t overpower the natural flavor of the steak. The combination of the two ingredients creates a perfectly balanced dish that is full of flavor.
• Versatile Pairings: Filet mignon pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes, making it a great dish for creating a complete meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30-40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on steak thickness and desired doneness)
• Servings: 2 servings (easily scalable for more)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 600-800 calories (depending on butter and steak size)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 600-800 kcal
• Fat: 45-55g
• Carbohydrates: 1-3g
• Protein: 50-55g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g

Ingredients

For the Filet Mignon:

• 2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1-2 tablespoons butter (for searing)

For the Garlic Herb Butter:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional for added brightness)
• Salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter

Start by making the garlic herb butter, as this will need time to come together and be ready to melt over the steaks once they are cooked.

In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, rosemary (if using), and lemon zest (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use a fork or spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined.

Once your butter mixture is ready, transfer it to a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Shape it into a log and refrigerate it for at least 15-20 minutes to firm up. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and use the butter immediately, but letting it set will give it a nice consistency when melted over the steak.

2. Prepare the Filet Mignon Steaks

While the garlic herb butter is setting, take the filet mignon steaks out of the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will help them cook more evenly.

Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This will ensure a good sear on the meat. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. You can also rub a little olive oil on the steaks to help the seasoning stick and to ensure they don’t stick to the pan during cooking.

3. Sear the Filet Mignon

Heat a cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1-2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt and bubble, but don’t let it burn.

Place the seasoned filet mignon steaks into the hot skillet. You should hear a sizzle when the steaks hit the pan. Don’t overcrowd the pan—if necessary, cook the steaks one at a time or use two pans.

Sear the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steaks and the desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. For medium, cook until the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F. Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results.

While the steaks are searing, don’t move them around too much. Let them form a nice crust on the outside, and only flip them once. After searing both sides, you can reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking the steaks until they reach your preferred level of doneness.

4. Rest the Steaks

Once the filet mignon steaks are cooked to your desired doneness, remove them from the skillet and place them on a cutting board or plate. Tent the steaks loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring that each bite is tender and juicy.

5. Top with Garlic Herb Butter

While the steaks are resting, slice the chilled garlic herb butter into rounds. Once the steaks have rested, place a slice of the garlic herb butter on top of each filet mignon. The warmth of the steak will melt the butter, creating a rich, flavorful sauce.

The butter will pool around the steak, coating it in a delicious layer of garlic, herbs, and lemon zest. The combination of the melted butter and the juicy, tender steak is a match made in heaven.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the filet mignon steaks to serving plates and top with the melted garlic herb butter. Serve immediately, accompanied by your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.

Tips for Perfect Filet Mignon with Garlic Herb Butter

• Let the Steak Come to Room Temperature: Always allow your steaks to rest at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly and prevents the meat from becoming tough.
• Searing is Key: The searing process is what gives filet mignon its delicious caramelized crust. Be sure to cook the steaks in a hot pan and avoid moving them around too much.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your filet mignon is cooked to perfection is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, look for an internal temperature of 130-135°F, and for medium, aim for 140-145°F.
• Rest the Steaks: Don’t skip the resting step! Allowing the steaks to rest before serving helps keep them juicy and tender. If you cut into the steak immediately after cooking, all the juices will spill out.
• Customize the Herb Butter: Feel free to experiment with the herb butter. You can add more or fewer herbs, or even include other flavorings such as truffle oil, balsamic vinegar, or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra twist.
• Use High-Quality Beef: The quality of the filet mignon is crucial for this dish. Look for high-quality, well-marbled steaks for the best flavor and tenderness. If you can, buy your steaks from a trusted butcher or specialty store.
• Make It Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the garlic herb butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze the butter for longer storage.

Variations of Filet Mignon with Garlic Herb Butter

• Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon: For an added layer of flavor, wrap your filet mignon in bacon before searing it. The bacon adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich garlic herb butter.
• Blue Cheese Filet Mignon: If you love blue cheese, crumble some on top of your filet mignon along with the garlic herb butter for a tangy, creamy addition.
• Mushroom Sauce: For an earthy, savory twist, top your filet mignon with a mushroom sauce made from sautéed mushrooms, garlic, butter, and cream. This complements the richness of the meat and garlic herb butter beautifully.
• Peppercorn-Crusted Filet Mignon: For a bit of heat and texture, coat the filet mignon in crushed black peppercorns before searing. The pepper adds a bold flavor that pairs well with the creamy garlic herb butter.

Storage and Shelf Life

Filet mignon is best enjoyed fresh out of the pan while it’s still juicy and tender. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the steak.

Garlic herb butter can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. Simply slice the butter into rounds and store in a zip-top bag or container.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Filet Mignon with Garlic Herb Butter

Filet mignon is a rich and indulgent dish, so pairing it with complementary sides will elevate the meal. Here are some excellent options:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots make great sides for filet mignon. The caramelized flavor of roasted vegetables pairs beautifully with the rich steak.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a touch of garlic are the perfect accompaniment to filet mignon. The buttery texture of the potatoes complements the rich garlic herb butter on the steak.
• Cauliflower Gratin: For a low-carb option, try a cauliflower gratin. The creamy, cheesy cauliflower provides a great contrast to the tender steak.
• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the steak. Opt for arugula, spinach, or mixed greens for a fresh, light side.
• Red Wine: Filet mignon pairs wonderfully with red wine, particularly a full-bodied wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. The tannins in the wine help cut through the richness of the beef.

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Conclusion

Filet Mignon with Garlic Herb Butter is an elegant, indulgent dish that combines the tender, juicy flavor of filet mignon with the richness of garlic-infused butter. Perfect for any special occasion or as a treat for yourself, this recipe is simple to make yet impressive enough to serve to guests. With the right techniques and a few fresh ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Try this recipe the next time you want to impress your guests or enjoy a gourmet meal with loved ones.