Filet mignon, renowned for its tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, is elevated to new heights when paired with a creamy peppercorn sauce. This dish delivers a luxurious restaurant-quality dining experience right at home, perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners. By following this recipe, you’ll master the art of preparing a sophisticated and flavorful steak meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Filet Mignon:
- 4 filet mignon steaks (6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Peppercorn Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 shallot, finely diced
- 2 teaspoons crushed black peppercorns
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cups low-sodium beef stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Kosher salt, to taste
Directions
For the Filet Mignon:
- Allow steaks to come to room temperature, pat them dry, and generously season with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot. Add avocado oil and heat until shimmering.
- Sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side without moving them to develop a deep golden crust.
- Hold the steaks with tongs and sear the edges for about 1 minute each.
- Lower the heat slightly, add butter and smashed garlic to the skillet, and baste the steaks for 30 seconds with the melted butter.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 7 minutes before slicing.
For the Creamy Peppercorn Sauce:
- Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add diced shallots with a pinch of salt and sauté until softened, about 1 minute.
- Stir in garlic and crushed peppercorns, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and flour. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add beef stock while whisking to create a smooth consistency. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Add heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt to taste.
Plating:
Serve each filet mignon steak drizzled with the creamy peppercorn sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs and pair with complementary sides like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus for a complete meal.
Nutrients (Per Serving)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: High-protein content
- Fat: Moderate, with healthy fats from avocado oil and butter
- Carbohydrates: Low (keto-friendly)
Indulge in this elegant filet mignon recipe and enjoy a gourmet dining experience at home!
What Makes Filet Mignon Special?
Filet mignon is derived from the tenderloin, one of the least exercised muscles in the cow. This results in an exceptionally tender cut that practically melts in your mouth. Its mild flavor makes it a versatile canvas for rich sauces and accompaniments, allowing the creamy peppercorn sauce in this recipe to shine.
Unlike tougher cuts of beef, filet mignon requires minimal cooking to achieve perfection. Its natural tenderness eliminates the need for extensive marination, while its uniform shape ensures even cooking, making it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike.
The Creamy Peppercorn Sauce: A Luxurious Partner
The creamy peppercorn sauce is the soul of this dish, enhancing the filet mignon with its velvety texture and bold flavors. Crushed black peppercorns are the star ingredient, offering a spicy kick balanced by the richness of heavy cream and the subtle sweetness of shallots. Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce add complexity, while the beef stock creates depth and a silky consistency.
The sauce serves as both a flavor enhancer and a unifying element, tying together the simplicity of the filet mignon with a gourmet touch. It’s not just a topping—it’s a transformative addition that elevates the entire meal.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Filet Mignon
Mastering filet mignon requires attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to ensure your steak turns out perfectly:
- Bring to Room Temperature: Allowing the steaks to reach room temperature ensures even cooking, preventing the exterior from overcooking while the interior remains cold.
- Pat Dry for a Perfect Sear: Removing excess moisture from the steaks helps create the desirable golden crust during searing.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet retains heat exceptionally well, making it ideal for achieving a deep sear.
- Don’t Skimp on Resting Time: Resting the steak allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender bite.
- Monitor Temperature: For optimal doneness, use a meat thermometer:
- Rare: 120°F (48°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
Pairing Filet Mignon with Sides
The richness of filet mignon and the creamy peppercorn sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Some complementary options include:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes balance the richness of the steak and sauce.
- Roasted Asparagus: The earthy, slightly bitter flavor of asparagus adds a refreshing contrast.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty, caramelized flavor that complements the dish.
- Wild Rice Pilaf: This nutty, slightly chewy grain adds texture and depth to the meal.
An Indulgence for Special Occasions
Filet mignon with creamy peppercorn sauce is a dish synonymous with indulgence. Its luxurious ingredients and sophisticated presentation make it perfect for marking milestones, celebrating holidays, or creating memorable moments with loved ones. It’s the kind of meal that transforms an ordinary evening into an extraordinary experience.
The Science Behind a Perfect Sear
Achieving the ideal sear on filet mignon is both an art and a science. The Maillard reaction, a chemical process that occurs when proteins and sugars are exposed to high heat, creates the rich, caramelized crust that defines a perfectly cooked steak. The combination of a hot skillet, dry surface, and proper seasoning ensures the Maillard reaction takes center stage, delivering unparalleled flavor and texture.
Customizing the Recipe to Your Taste
While the recipe is designed to be universally appealing, it can be easily tailored to suit individual preferences:
- Add Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme can be infused into the butter for added aromatics.
- Adjust Heat Levels: For those who enjoy a spicier kick, increase the quantity of crushed black peppercorns or add a dash of cayenne.
- Experiment with Sauces: While the creamy peppercorn sauce is a classic, you can explore other options like a red wine reduction or a béarnaise sauce.
Nutritional Insights
Filet mignon with creamy peppercorn sauce strikes a balance between indulgence and nutrition. Here’s why it can fit into various dietary plans:
- High Protein: The steak provides a substantial amount of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Low Carbohydrate: With minimal carbs, this dish is suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.
- Healthy Fats: The use of avocado oil and butter offers a mix of healthy fats, enhancing the dish’s nutritional profile.
Wine Pairing Recommendations
Enhance your dining experience by pairing this dish with the perfect wine. Filet mignon’s mild flavor pairs well with medium-bodied red wines that won’t overpower the dish:
- Cabernet Sauvignon: A classic choice, its bold flavors complement the richness of the creamy sauce.
- Merlot: Its velvety texture and fruity notes balance the peppery kick of the sauce.
- Pinot Noir: A lighter option, Pinot Noir’s earthy undertones harmonize beautifully with the steak.
Conclusion
Filet mignon with creamy peppercorn sauce is the ultimate expression of fine dining at home. This dish combines the tenderness of a perfectly seared steak with the bold, indulgent flavors of a rich and creamy sauce. Its versatility, elegance, and ease of preparation make it a standout recipe for both novice and experienced cooks.