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–+ servings

Pan-Seared Filet Mignon

Restaurant-quality filet mignon with a perfectly caramelized crust and butter-basted finish. Tender, juicy, and ready in under 15 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Restaurant Classics
Servings 4 steaks
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

Grill or cast iron skillet
Tongs
Meat thermometer
Cutting board
Sharp knife

Ingredients
  

Steaks

  • 4 filet mignon steaks 6-8 oz each, 1.5 inches thick
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil high smoke point

Butter Baste

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic smashed
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

Instructions
 

  • Remove steaks from refrigerator 30-45 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature. Pat completely dry with paper towels on cutting board.
  • Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, pressing seasoning into the meat.
  • Heat grill or cast iron skillet over high heat until smoking hot. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat.
  • Place steaks in pan without moving them. Sear for 3-4 minutes until a dark brown crust forms.
  • Flip steaks using tongs and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes for medium-rare (internal temp 130-135°F).
  • Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the pan.
  • Tilt pan slightly and use a spoon to continuously baste steaks with melted herb butter for 1-2 minutes.
  • Check temperature with meat thermometer: 120-125°F for rare, 130-135°F for medium-rare, 135-145°F for medium.
  • Transfer steaks to cutting board and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Spoon remaining herb butter over steaks before serving.

Notes

Room temperature steaks cook more evenly. Don't skip the resting period - it allows juices to redistribute. For the best crust, make sure steaks are completely dry before searing. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness every time. The carryover cooking will raise the temperature 5°F during resting. Cast iron retains heat better than stainless steel for this recipe. Add a pat of compound butter on top for extra richness.
ALLERGEN INFORMATION: Contains dairy (butter). This recipe is gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels if you have food allergies.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 42gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 165mgSodium: 620mg
Keyword American, Beef, Dinner, Fine Dining, Gluten-Free, Pan-Seared, Protein, Restaurant Classics, Special Occasion, Steak
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