Just like London broil, which is a specific cut of meat, Filet Mignon is also a premium cut of meat from the beef tenderloin and is known for its tender texture and mild flavor. Filet mignon is often referred to as the “king of steaks.” This special cut delicate steak requires perfect cooking techniques to enhance its flavor and texture. Among the best ways to cook filet mignon are pan-seared, grilled, and bacon-wrapped mignon steaks. Each method has the same ingredients but a different cooking strategy. In this guide, we will discuss easy recipes and tips for making your filet mignon melt in your mouth.
Preparation Tips to Cook Filet Mignon
1. Choosing the Right Filet Mignon
When selecting cuts of filet mignon, look for the cuts with the following characteristics.
Well-marbled
The term marbling indicates small streaks of fat within the meat, adding to its flavor and juiciness
Evenly Cut
Uniform thickness ensures even cooking.
Deep red color
A fresh filet mignon should have a bright, rich red color
2. Bring to Room Temperature
Before starting cooking, let the filet mignon come to room temperature. This ensures more even cooking. Remove the mignon steaks from the refrigerator at least half an hour before cooking.
3. Season Generously
Season the filet mignon with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or garlic powder for extra taste.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer
check the internal temperature of the filet mignon. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect internal temperature without overcooking. For medium-rare, the ideal temperature is 130-135°F (54-57°C).
Ingredients To Cook Filet Mignon
- 2 filet mignon steaks, about 1 1/2 inches thick
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Pan Seared Filet Mignon
Pan searing is a well-liked technique to cook a perfectly browned exterior and a juicy middle. A cast iron skillet ensures excellent searing and uniform heat distribution.
Instructions
- Season the mignon steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot.
- Add olive oil and let it heat up.
- Place the mignon steaks in the hot pan and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- In the cast-iron skillet, stir in any desired fresh herbs with the butter. Baste the steaks with the melted butter.
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven set to 400°F (200°C). Use an oven-safe skillet for this purpose.
- Continue cooking in the oven for 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired doneness. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; 125°F is for rare, 135°F is for medium-rare, and 145°F is for medium.
- Before serving, remove the steaks from the oven and allow them to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the juices to be redistributed, resulting in a juicy steak.
Grilled Filet Mignon
Grilling is another excellent way to cook filet mignon, imparting a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks.
Instructions
- Set your grill’s temperature to medium-high.
- Season the steaks with salt and pepper.
- Grease the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the filet mignon steaks for 4–5 minutes on each side or until they are done. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a plate and cover with foil. serving
- Let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Oven-Roasted Filet Mignon
The pan-seared technique mentioned above is the best way to cook filet mignon without a grill. Using the oven is yet another fantastic choice:
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Season the steak with salt and pepper
- Add olive oil to a cast-iron skillet and heat it over medium-high heat.
- Sear the mignon steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 5-8 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer to guarantee proper cooking.
- Before serving, take the steaks out of the oven and give them 5 to 10 minutes to rest.
Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon
Ingredients
- 2 filet mignon steaks, 1 1/2 inches thick
- 2 slices thick-cut Bacon
- Salt and pepper
- Two tsp olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Take out the filet mignon steaks from the refrigerator half an hour before cooking,
- Season the steak with salt and pepper.
- Wrap a slice of bacon around each steak, securing it with a toothpick.
- Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil.
- Cook the steaks for two to three minutes on each side until browned. Also, sear the bacon’s edges.
Tips for the Perfect Filet Mignon
- Before you start cooking, always bring the steaks to room temperature.
- Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper.
- Use a hot pan or grill for an excellent sear.
- Let the steaks rest after cooking to retain their juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of your steaks.
Conclusion
To cook filet mignon seems daunting. However, by following these easy recipes and tips, you can prepare delicious and scrumptious mignon filets to perfection. Whether you choose pan-seared, oven-roasted, or grilled, each method imparts a new texture to mignon steak with mouthwatering flavors that melt in your mouth.