Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
An elegant steakhouse classic made right at home! Juicy, tender filet mignon paired with a rich, velvety mushroom sauce—perfect for date night or a special dinner.
Ingredients:
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2 filet mignon steaks (6–8 oz each)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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2 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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8 oz mushrooms, sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/4 cup beef broth
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1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Remove filet mignon from the refrigerator and let rest at room temperature (15 minutes) .
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Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper (2 minutes).
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (3 minutes) .
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Add steaks and sear for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to desired doneness .
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Add butter to the pan and spoon it over the steaks for extra flavor (1 minute) .
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Remove steaks from skillet and let rest, loosely covered, to retain juices (5 minutes).
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In the same skillet, add mushrooms and sauté until golden and tender (5 minutes) .
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Stir in garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant (1 minute).
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Pour in beef broth, scraping up browned bits, and simmer slightly (2 minutes).
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Reduce heat to low, add heavy cream and Dijon mustard, and simmer until thickened (4–5 minutes) .
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Return steaks to skillet, spoon sauce over them, and warm through (2 minutes).
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
The Best One-Pan Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Can you make a tender, pan-seared filet mignon with creamy mushroom sauce at home? Yes, it’s definitely possible and quite simple.
Cooking a filet mignon to perfection can make any dinner party special. This one-pan recipe lets you create a dish that rivals those in restaurants.
This recipe for pan-seared filet mignon with creamy mushroom sauce is a real game-changer. It’s easy to follow and gives amazing results. It’s great for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Key Takeaways
- Easy one-pan recipe for pan-seared filet mignon
- Creamy mushroom sauce adds rich flavor
- Achieve restaurant-quality results at home
- Perfect for special occasions or dinner parties
- Simple ingredients and straightforward cooking process
Understanding Filet Mignon: The Crown Jewel of Steaks
Filet mignon is tender, rich, and full of flavor. It’s the top choice for steak lovers. Its tenderness and subtle taste make it a hit in fancy restaurants.
What Makes Filet Mignon Special
Filet mignon comes from the tenderloin’s small end. This part doesn’t work much, making it very tender. Its special features include:
- Tenderness: It’s so tender, it melts in your mouth.
- Flavor Profile: It tastes mild and buttery, rich yet subtle.
- Lean Cut: Being lean, it’s healthier than fattier steaks.
Selecting the Perfect Cut
Choosing the right filet mignon is key for a great meal. Look for:
- Marbling: A bit of marbling adds flavor and tenderness.
- Color: It should be a bright red, showing it’s fresh.
- Thickness: Aim for 1.5 to 2 inches for even cooking.
For beginners, learning about filet mignon seasoning can make a big difference. Simple spices like salt, pepper, and garlic can boost the taste without overwhelming it.
Beef Grades and What They Mean
Beef grades are important for quality. The USDA grades beef based on marbling, maturity, and firmness. The main grades are:
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| Prime | High-quality beef with lots of marbling, making it tender and flavorful. |
| Choice | High-quality beef with less marbling than Prime, still tasty and tender. |
| Select | Leaner beef that’s less tender than Prime or Choice but still good quality. |
For the best dining experience, choose USDA Prime filet mignon. It offers the best mix of tenderness and flavor.
Essential Equipment for Perfect Filet Mignon
To cook a restaurant-quality filet mignon at home, you need the right kitchen tools. The right equipment can greatly improve your dish’s quality. This ensures your filet mignon is cooked perfectly every time.
The Ideal Pan for Searing
A high-quality pan is key for a perfect sear on your filet mignon. Choose a pan that holds heat well and is big enough for your steaks. A cast-iron or stainless steel pan works best because they heat up well and stay hot.
Temperature Tools for Precision Cooking
To cook your filet mignon just right, you need a reliable thermometer. An instant-read thermometer is perfect for this. It lets you quickly and accurately check your steak’s internal temperature. This way, your filet mignon will be cooked to your liking, whether it’s rare, medium rare, or well done.
Additional Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Along with a good pan and thermometer, you’ll need a few more tools. These include:
- Tongs or a spatula for handling the steaks
- Oven mitts to protect your hands from hot pans
- A cutting board for letting your steak rest before slicing
- A sharp knife for slicing the filet mignon against the grain
Having these tools will help you make a delicious filet mignon dish. Whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting, the right equipment makes cooking better and more fun.
Preparing Your Filet Mignon for Cooking
A well-prepared filet mignon is key to a great meal. Before cooking, there are steps to take for a perfect steak.
Bringing Steaks to Room Temperature
Bringing your filet mignon to room temperature is crucial. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes. This ensures the steak cooks evenly.
By warming the steak, heat spreads evenly. This means the steak will be cooked consistently from edge to edge.
Seasoning Techniques for Maximum Flavor
Seasoning is vital for a great filet mignon. Mix salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. Rub the seasoning all over the steak for even coating.
For extra flavor, marinating is an option. But it’s up to your taste.
Dry Brining: The Secret to Restaurant-Quality Steak
Dry brining, or pre-salting, makes your steak taste like it’s from a restaurant. Salt the steak and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. This tenderizes the meat and adds depth to the flavor.
After dry brining, pat the steak dry. This helps get a better sear when cooking.
By following these steps, you’ll cook a filet mignon that will wow anyone. These tips are great for both experienced chefs and beginners.
Mastering the Pan-Sear Method for Filet Mignon
To cook filet mignon perfectly, you need to master the pan-sear method. This technique makes the tender beef even better. It involves using a hot skillet and keeping an eye on the steak to get that perfect sear.
Creating the Perfect Sear
Start by heating a skillet over high heat until it’s very hot. Add a bit of oil, like avocado oil, and let it heat for a minute. Then, place your filet mignon in the skillet, away from you to avoid splashing oil.
Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on its thickness. This will give you a golden-brown crust. Use tongs or a spatula to flip the steak, as they won’t pierce the meat like a fork would.
Determining Cooking Times for Different Doneness Levels
Cooking time changes based on how rare you like your steak. For a rare filet mignon, cook to an internal temperature of 120°F – 130°F (about 4-6 minutes total after searing). For medium-rare, aim for 130°F – 135°F (about 6-8 minutes total).
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak.
- Rare: 120°F – 130°F, 4-6 minutes
- Medium-rare: 130°F – 135°F, 6-8 minutes
- Medium: 140°F – 145°F, 8-10 minutes
The Importance of Resting Your Steak
After cooking, remove the filet mignon from the heat and let it rest. Resting is key as it lets the juices spread evenly throughout the steak, keeping it tender and juicy.
Why Resting Matters
Resting is important because it lets the muscle fibers relax. This reabsorbs the juices that were pushed to the surface during cooking. This makes the steak more evenly flavored and tender.
How Long to Rest
The resting time varies, but usually, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This gives enough time for the juices to spread, making the steak more enjoyable to eat.
By mastering the pan-sear method, you can cook filet mignon like a pro. This includes getting the perfect sear, knowing the right cooking times, and understanding the importance of resting. With quality ingredients and attention to detail, your dining experience will be elevated.
Alternative Cooking Methods for Filet Mignon
There are many ways to cook filet mignon besides pan-searing. These methods let you try new things and use what you have at home. They can make your steak taste amazing.
Oven-Finishing Technique
The oven-finishing method starts with searing the steak in a hot pan. Then, it goes into a hot oven to finish cooking. This way, the steak cooks evenly and stays juicy.
To do this, sear the steak for 1-2 minutes on each side. Then, put the pan in a 400°F oven. Cook until it’s just right.
Grilling Filet Mignon to Perfection
Grilling adds a smoky taste and a nice crust to the steak. First, heat your grill to high. Season the steak as you like.
Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side. Then, move it to a cooler spot to cook a bit more. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Grilling expert, Steven Raichlen, says, “A good sear is key to a great grilled steak.”
The Reverse Sear Method
The reverse sear starts with cooking the steak in a low oven. Then, it gets seared in a hot pan. This method makes the steak cook evenly and gets a crispy crust.
Cook the steak in a 200°F oven until it’s almost done. Then, sear it in a hot pan for 1-2 minutes on each side. This adds a tasty crust.
These cooking methods let you try new things and make amazing filet mignon at home. Whether you like the oven, grill, or reverse sear, there’s a method for you.
Creating a Luxurious Creamy Mushroom Sauce
A luxurious creamy mushroom sauce can turn a simple filet mignon into a gourmet dish. It’s not just a side; it’s key to a great meal.
Selecting the Best Mushrooms for Your Sauce
The mushrooms you pick greatly affect your sauce’s taste and texture. While button mushrooms are usual, wild mushrooms like shiitake or cremini add a richer, earthier taste. This is perfect for a fancy sauce.
Building Flavor with Aromatics
Aromatics are the base of a flavorful sauce. Start by cooking chopped onions and minced garlic until they’re soft and smell great. This step adds a depth of flavor that goes well with mushrooms and filet mignon.
Achieving the Perfect Sauce Consistency
The sauce’s consistency is key. It should be thick enough to cover the filet mignon but still flow. This is where thickening comes in.
Thickening Techniques
There are many ways to thicken your sauce, including:
- Reducing the sauce by cooking it longer
- Using a roux made from butter and flour
- Adding a slurry of cornstarch and water
| Thickening Method | Effectiveness | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|
| Reduction | High | Moderate |
| Roux | High | Easy |
| Slurry | Moderate | Easy |
Cream Alternatives for Dietary Restrictions
If you have dietary limits, there are cream substitutes that keep the sauce rich. Coconut cream and cashew cream are great dairy-free choices for creamy mushroom sauces.
By following these tips, you can make a luxurious creamy mushroom sauce. It will match your pan-seared filet mignon perfectly. It’s also good for different diets without losing flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe: One-Pan Filet Mignon with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Enjoy the rich taste of filet mignon with a creamy mushroom sauce in one pan. This recipe makes cooking easy and results in a dish that will wow your guests.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you need for this dish:
- 4 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)
- 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
Before cooking, do the following:
- Let the filet mignon steaks come to room temperature.
- Season the steaks with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Cut the mushrooms and mince the garlic.
Cooking Process
Searing the Steaks
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Sear the filet mignon steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side. This will create a nice crust. Remove the steaks and set them aside.
In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add the mushrooms. Cook until they start browning. Then, add the garlic and cook for a minute.
Bringing It All Together
Pour in the heavy cream, scraping the pan’s bottom for browned bits. Simmer until it thickens a bit. Put the filet mignon steaks back in the pan, spooning sauce over them. Simmer for a few minutes until the steaks are cooked to your liking.
Serve the one-pan filet mignon hot with the creamy mushroom sauce on top. It’s great for a special dinner or a cozy evening.
Troubleshooting Common Filet Mignon Cooking Issues
With a few simple tips, you can turn a potentially disastrous filet mignon dinner into a culinary success. Cooking filet mignon can be challenging, but understanding how to address common problems is key to achieving a perfect dish.
Fixing an Undercooked or Overcooked Steak
One of the most common issues with cooking filet mignon is getting the doneness just right. If your steak is undercooked, you can quickly finish it in the oven. For an overcooked steak, there’s not much you can do, but you can prevent this by using a thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Internal Temperature Guide:
| Doneness | Internal Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| Rare | 120-130 |
| Medium Rare | 130-135 |
| Medium | 140-145 |
Dealing with Tough Filet Mignon
Tough filet mignon can be disappointing. This can happen if the steak is overcooked or not sliced correctly. To avoid this, always slice against the grain and use a sharp knife.
“The quality of the meat is crucial. Choosing a high-grade filet mignon will significantly reduce the likelihood of it being tough.”
Rescuing a Broken or Separated Sauce
A broken or separated sauce can ruin the dish. To rescue it, you can try whisking in a little more cream or butter. If the sauce has separated, gently reheat it while whisking constantly.
By following these troubleshooting tips, you can ensure that your filet mignon dinner is always a success. Whether it’s fixing a cooking mistake or rescuing a sauce, these tips will help you achieve a delicious and memorable meal.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Restaurant-Quality Filet Mignon at Home
Preparing a delicious filet mignon with creamy mushroom sauce at home is a true joy. This article has shown you how to make a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.
Cooking filet mignon is simpler than you might think. The result is a tender, juicy steak that will wow anyone. When you add a rich mushroom sauce, it becomes a favorite dish, just like those found in fancy restaurants.
Remember, the more you practice, the better you’ll get. Even if your first tries don’t turn out perfectly, keep trying. Soon, you’ll be a pro at cooking filet mignon, and enjoying it at home will become a regular treat.
FAQ
What is the best way to cook filet mignon?
Pan-searing is the top choice for cooking filet mignon. It creates a crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender. For an even cook, finish it in the oven.
How do I achieve a perfect sear on my filet mignon?
For a perfect sear, heat your pan well before adding the steak. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Use a high-heat skillet like cast-iron and add a bit of oil before searing.
What are the best seasonings for filet mignon?
Simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder are great. You can also add thyme or rosemary for a richer flavor.
Can I grill filet mignon instead of pan-searing it?
Yes, grilling is a good option. Preheat your grill to high, season the steak, and grill for 4-5 minutes per side. Let it rest before serving.
How do I make a creamy mushroom sauce to go with my filet mignon?
Start by sautéing mushrooms in butter until tender. Add garlic and onions, then deglaze with wine or broth. Finish with heavy cream or a substitute, seasoning with salt, pepper, and herbs.
What are some good side dishes to serve with filet mignon?
Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts are great. Mashed potatoes, sautéed spinach, or a green salad also pair well. Grilled or roasted root vegetables make a hearty side.
How do I cook filet mignon to the right doneness?
Use a meat thermometer for the right temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F. For medium, it’s 140-145°F. For well-done, it’s 150°F or higher. Let the steak rest before serving.
Can I use different types of mushrooms for the creamy mushroom sauce?
Yes, you can try different mushrooms like button, cremini, or shiitake. Each variety changes the flavor and texture of the sauce, so experiment to find your favorite.
Link source:
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Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filet_mignon
Anchor Text: What is filet mignon? -
Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steak
Anchor Text: Tips for cooking steak perfectly -
Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B%C3%A9chamel_sauce
Anchor Text: How to make a creamy pan sauce
