Garlic Herb Filet Mignon
Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals
I absolutely love preparing Garlic Herb Filet Mignon for special occasions or whenever I want to impress guests with a restaurant-quality dish at home. The combination of tender filet mignon and aromatic herbs creates a flavor profile that excites the palate. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple cooking method, I can achieve a perfectly seared steak that's juicy and flavorful. Join me as I share my go-to recipe that never fails to leave everyone wanting more!
When I first tried cooking filet mignon, I was intimidated, but it turned out to be quite the rewarding experience. I learned that the key to a perfect steak lies in properly seasoning and letting it rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and packed with flavor.
I experimented with various herbs and landed on a blend of garlic, rosemary, and thyme, which really elevates this dish. Paired with a simple side of roasted vegetables, this meal has become a staple in my house!
Reasons to Love This Recipe
- Rich garlic flavor that complements the filet mignon perfectly
- Savory herbs that enhance the overall taste
- Impressive presentation, ideal for entertaining
Understanding Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is renowned for its tenderness and subtle flavor, making it one of the most sought-after cuts of beef. This cut is taken from the smaller end of the tenderloin, which isn't heavily used by the animal, resulting in minimal fat and connective tissue. This means that when cooked properly, the filet mignon remains juicy with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Choosing perfectly marbled steaks can elevate the dish, as the intermuscular fat enhances the overall flavor during cooking.
When preparing filet mignon, it’s essential to allow the steaks to come to room temperature before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout the steak, preventing the outer edges from overcooking while the center remains underdone. Patting the steaks dry will also help form a beautiful sear. A good sear creates a flavorful crust, which not only enhances the presentation but also adds depth to the overall taste.
The Role of Garlic and Herbs
Garlic and fresh herbs play a crucial role in elevating the flavor profile of filet mignon. The garlic provides a robust backbone, infusing the meat with its rich, aromatic essence as it cooks. Mincing the garlic allows for an even distribution of flavor, and it's best added to the oil before rubbing it onto the steak. This helps the garlic to infuse into the oil and coat the steak perfectly, imparting its bold notes during the cooking process.
Rosemary and thyme are classic pairings with steak, each contributing unique earthiness that complements the beef's natural flavor. Adding these herbs fresh, rather than dried, ensures maximum potency and aroma. The balance between these fragrant ingredients and the richness of the steak creates a luxurious dining experience. You can experiment with other herbs as well, such as oregano or sage, depending on your preference for flavor nuances.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to bring the flavors to life:
Ingredients
- 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
With these ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking process!
Instructions
Follow these steps for a mouthwatering filet mignon:
Prepare the Steaks
Take the filet mignon out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes. This ensures even cooking. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel, then rub each steak with olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Steaks
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the steaks in the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Add butter in the last minute and baste the steaks with the melted butter and herbs.
Rest and Serve
Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to settle. Serve with your choice of sides and drizzle any remaining herb-infused butter over the top.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked Garlic Herb Filet Mignon!
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the steaks in the herb mixture for a few hours before cooking. Also, using a meat thermometer can help you achieve your desired doneness accurately.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
While filet mignon is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the herb and garlic rub in advance. Combining the minced garlic with the chopped herbs and olive oil ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to save time on cooking day. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before using it to apply to the steaks.
If you find yourself with leftovers, properly storing them will help maintain the quality. Allow any unused steak to cool down to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate and consume within 2-3 days. For longer storage, filet mignon can be frozen, but it's best to wrap individual portions tightly and consume within 3 months for optimal freshness.
Serving Suggestions
When serving garlic herb filet mignon, consider offering sides that complement its rich flavor. Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil pair wonderfully with the steak's savory notes. A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the juicy meat.
For a touch of elegance, consider finishing the dish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before plating. This helps to enhance the steak's natural flavors further while providing a delightful crunch. To create a complete dining experience, pairing your meal with a robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, will perfectly elevate the flavors of this impressive dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ What is the best way to store leftovers?
Wrap the filet mignon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use less since dried herbs are more potent. Typically, use about a third of fresh herbs' quantity.
→ What sides pair well with filet mignon?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad are excellent side options.
→ How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, and 150°F for medium-well.
Garlic Herb Filet Mignon
I absolutely love preparing Garlic Herb Filet Mignon for special occasions or whenever I want to impress guests with a restaurant-quality dish at home. The combination of tender filet mignon and aromatic herbs creates a flavor profile that excites the palate. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple cooking method, I can achieve a perfectly seared steak that's juicy and flavorful. Join me as I share my go-to recipe that never fails to leave everyone wanting more!
Created by: Tom
Recipe Type: Clean & Simple Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
How-To Steps
Take the filet mignon out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes. This ensures even cooking. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel, then rub each steak with olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the steaks in the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Add butter in the last minute and baste the steaks with the melted butter and herbs.
Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to settle. Serve with your choice of sides and drizzle any remaining herb-infused butter over the top.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the steaks in the herb mixture for a few hours before cooking. Also, using a meat thermometer can help you achieve your desired doneness accurately.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 42g