Ultimate Filet Mignon: Perfectly Seared Steakhouse Style
Transform your dining experience with this Ultimate Filet Mignon recipe, inspired by Barefoot Contessa. Utilizing a high-heat searing technique, you'll achieve a beautifully caramelized crust while locking in the tender, juicy flavor of filet mignon. The recipe gives you the freedom to season to your heart's content, with a preference for the classic fleur de sel and cracked pepper combination that enhances the beef's natural richness. Marinate your steaks in advance to deepen the flavor even further. Finished in the oven to perfection, this dish emerges beautifully rested, ready to impress whether it's a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Filet mignon
2 (10 ounce each, patted dry)
Vegetable oil
2 tablespoons (for brushing)
Fleur de sel
1 tablespoon (for seasoning)
Coarsely cracked black peppercorns
1 tablespoon (for seasoning)
Unsalted butter
2 tablespoons (at room temperature (optional))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2
In a well-seasoned cast iron skillet, heat over high heat until very hot; this typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
3
While the skillet heats, take the filet mignon steaks and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
4
Brush each steak lightly with vegetable oil to ensure optimal searing.
5
On a separate plate, combine the fleur de sel and cracked black pepper. Roll each steak in this mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coat on all sides.
6
Once the skillet is hot, add the steaks carefully, searing them for about 2 minutes on each side. Aim for a total of 10 minutes to achieve a good crust.
7
If desired, place a tablespoon of room temperature unsalted butter on top of each steak for added richness.
8
Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 120 degrees F for rare, or 125 degrees F for medium-rare. Always use an instant-read thermometer inserted sideways to accurately gauge the middle of the steak.
9
Once cooked to your liking, remove the steaks from the oven and place them on a serving platter. Cover them tightly with aluminum foil and allow to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to let the juices redistribute.
10
Serve your perfectly cooked filet mignon with your favorite sides and enjoy a luxurious meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary cut of meat used in this recipe?
The primary cut used is filet mignon, specifically two 10-ounce steaks.
What oven temperature is required for finishing the steaks?
The oven should be preheated to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
What type of skillet is best for searing filet mignon?
A well-seasoned cast iron skillet is recommended for achieving the best sear.
How long should I preheat the cast iron skillet?
The skillet should be heated over high heat for approximately 5 to 7 minutes until it is very hot.
Why is it important to pat the steaks dry before cooking?
Patting the steaks dry with a paper towel removes excess moisture, which ensures an optimal sear and a better crust.
What type of oil should be used for brushing the steaks?
Vegetable oil is used to brush the steaks before seasoning and searing.
What seasoning provides the classic steakhouse flavor in this recipe?
A combination of fleur de sel and coarsely cracked black peppercorns is used to coat the steaks.
How long do I sear each side of the filet mignon?
Each side should be seared for about 2 minutes, aiming for a total of 10 minutes of searing to achieve a good crust.
Is butter used in this filet mignon recipe?
Yes, placing a tablespoon of room temperature unsalted butter on top of each steak before putting them in the oven is an optional step for added richness.
What internal temperature is needed for a rare steak?
For a rare steak, the internal temperature should reach 120 degrees F.
What internal temperature is needed for a medium-rare steak?
For a medium-rare steak, the internal temperature should reach 125 degrees F.
How should I measure the internal temperature of the steak?
Use an instant-read thermometer inserted sideways into the middle of the steak for the most accurate reading.
How long should the steaks rest after cooking?
The steaks should rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
Should the steaks be covered while resting?
Yes, cover the steaks tightly with aluminum foil while resting to allow the juices to redistribute.
Who is the inspiration behind this filet mignon recipe?
This recipe is inspired by Barefoot Contessa.
Can I marinate the steaks before cooking?
Yes, marinating the steaks in advance can help deepen the flavor even further.
What is the benefit of the high-heat searing technique?
High-heat searing creates a beautifully caramelized crust while locking in the tender, juicy flavor of the beef.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 5 ingredients: filet mignon, vegetable oil, fleur de sel, cracked black peppercorns, and unsalted butter.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and a great main dish for special occasions.
How much fleur de sel is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fleur de sel.
How much black pepper is required?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of coarsely cracked black peppercorns.
Can I use a different type of salt?
While fleur de sel is preferred for its texture and flavor enhancement, you can use other high-quality salts.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The recipe is designed for two 10-ounce steaks, typically serving two people.
When do I add the butter to the steaks?
If using, add the butter after searing the steaks on the stove and just before transferring the skillet to the oven.
What should the texture of the butter be?
The butter should be at room temperature.
Does the recipe require a specific type of thermometer?
An instant-read thermometer is recommended for accuracy.
What are the primary flavor profiles of this dish?
The dish is characterized by a rich, savory, and luxurious flavor with a peppery crust.
Can this recipe be cooked entirely on the stovetop?
This specific method involves searing on the stovetop and finishing in the oven for even cooking.
What is the total preparation and cooking time roughly?
With preheating (7 mins), searing (10 mins), oven finishing, and resting (10 mins), it takes approximately 30-40 minutes.
What side dishes go well with steakhouse-style filet mignon?
The recipe suggests serving with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.