What is filet mignon and why is it so tender?

Filet mignon is a cut of beef taken from the smaller end of the tenderloin, a muscle that does very little work. Because of this minimal movement, the meat is extremely tender and fine-grained. It has less fat and connective tissue than other cuts, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture highly sought after by steak lovers.

How do I cook filet mignon to get the perfect medium-rare?

To achieve a perfect medium-rare filet mignon, season the steak with salt and pepper and sear it in a hot pan with a little oil for about 2-3 minutes per side. Then finish cooking in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for around 5-7 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C) is reached. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

What are the best side dishes to serve with filet mignon?

Classic side dishes for filet mignon include garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, sautéed mushrooms, and a fresh green salad. These options complement the richness of the steak without overpowering its delicate flavor. Creamy sauces like béarnaise or red wine reduction also pair nicely for added depth.

How much does filet mignon typically cost per pound?

Filet mignon is one of the more expensive steak cuts, often priced between $25 to $40 per pound, depending on quality, grade, and regional availability. Prices can vary more for organic or grass-fed options. Because it is a smaller, premium cut, cooking in smaller portions is common.

Can I freeze filet mignon without losing quality?

Yes, you can freeze filet mignon to preserve freshness. Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag or vacuum-seal it to prevent freezer burn. For best quality, use within 6 months. Thaw it slowly in the refrigerator before cooking to maintain texture and flavor.

Filet Mignon Recipes With Tips For Tender Flavorful Steaks

Name: Filet Mignon
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 2 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each) provides the lean, tender beef that is the star of the dish; – 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing and adding healthy fats; – 2 cloves garlic, minced enhances flavor with aromatic notes; – 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped adds herbaceous freshness; – Salt and pepper to taste essential seasonings to bring out natural flavors

Description

🥩 Filet mignon recipes offer a tender and lean cut of beef that delivers rich, flavorful steaks perfect for special occasions.
🔥 Cooking tips help achieve the ideal medium-rare doneness, preserving its delicate texture and mild taste.

Ingredients

– 2 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each) provides the lean, tender beef that is the star of the dish

– 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing and adding healthy fats

– 2 cloves garlic, minced enhances flavor with aromatic notes

– 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped adds herbaceous freshness

– Salt and pepper to taste essential seasonings to bring out natural flavors

Instructions

Initial Preparation: First, remove steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to let them reach room temperature, which promotes even cooking and enhances tenderness. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat and season the steak generously with salt, pepper, and preferred herbs to build a flavorful base. This step is vital as filet mignon’s mild flavor benefits from such enhancements.

Cooking Process: Add olive oil to the pan and sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side until a golden crust forms, locking in the meat’s natural juices. Reduce heat to medium, then incorporate minced garlic and rosemary, basting the steaks with pan juices for another 2 minutes to infuse extra flavor. For desired doneness, transfer to a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 5-7 minutes, adjusting based on thickness; aim for medium-rare as it’s commonly recommended for this cut.

Finishing Touches: Rest the filet mignon for 5 minutes before serving to retain its juices, resulting in a more succulent texture. Often, it’s garnished with sauce or wrapped in bacon to enhance its mild taste, as filet mignon is lean and tender. For additional ideas, check out our recipe for garlic butter steak dishes that complement this preparation style.

Notes

🔥 Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and ensure perfect medium-rare steaks.
🥓 Wrapping steaks in bacon adds flavor and moisture.
🍷 Prepare a complementary sauce like red wine reduction to enhance the mild flavor of filet mignon.

Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Pan-searing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 steak

Keywords: filet mignon, tender steak, flavorful steaks, cooking tips