Ingredients
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2 (6-8 ounce) Filet mignon steaks
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons Olive oil or vegetable oil
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2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
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2-3 cloves, minced (optional) Garlic
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(such as thyme or rosemary) for added flavor (optional) Fresh herbs
Directions
- Preparation:
- Take the filet mignon steaks out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows them to cook more evenly.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Season the steaks generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. You can also add minced garlic and fresh herbs for extra flavor if desired.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sear the Steaks:
- Heat a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over high heat until it’s very hot.
- Add the olive oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
- Carefully place the seasoned filet mignon steaks in the hot skillet. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice crust. If you like your steak rare, you can sear it for less time; for medium-rare, a little longer.
- Add Butter and Flavorings:
- Once the steaks are seared on both sides, add the butter to the skillet.
- Optionally, you can add garlic cloves and fresh herbs to the skillet at this point to infuse the butter with flavor.
- Baste the steaks with the melted butter and herbs for about a minute, continuing to cook them in the skillet.
- Transfer to the Oven:
- Transfer the skillet with the filet mignon steaks to the preheated oven.
- Roast the steaks in the oven for about 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steak more well-done. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature (125°F or 52°C for medium-rare).
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the steaks to a plate.
- Allow the steaks to rest for a few minutes, tented with foil, to let the juices redistribute.
- Serve your filet mignon steaks with your choice of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, asparagus, or a green salad.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked filet mignon! Adjust the cooking times to your desired level of doneness, and remember that the internal temperature will continue to rise a bit as the steaks rest.
