This filet mignon with garlic herb butter is a tender and juicy delight. It’s an easy, elegant dish that transforms any dinner into a special occasion. With rich, buttery flavors and aromatic herbs, this recipe is perfect for impressing family and friends.
Table of Contents
The Perfect Filet Mignon with Garlic Herb Butter Recipe
Why This Recipe Works
This filet mignon with garlic herb butter recipe is straightforward yet results in a restaurant-quality steak. The garlic herb butter melts into the meat, creating a rich sauce that elevates the dish. Additionally, it’s healthy and family-friendly, making it a win for any weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients for Success
- 2 filet mignon steaks (6–8 ounces each)
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Crafting the Irresistible Garlic Herb Butter
Softening and Mixing the Butter Base
To create the garlic herb butter, start by softening the butter at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps blend the flavors seamlessly.
Incorporating Fresh Garlic and Herbs
Next, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and thyme. The aroma of fresh herbs combined with garlic will instantly elevate your kitchen’s scent.
Chilling and Shaping the Butter Log
Once mixed, roll the butter mixture into a log using parchment paper or plastic wrap. Chilling it for at least one hour solidifies the flavors and makes it easy to slice later.
Preparing Your Filet Mignon for Searing
Bringing Steaks to Room Temperature
Before cooking, remove the steaks from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes beforehand. This allows them to reach room temperature, promoting even cooking.
Generously Seasoning the Filets
Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. A good rule of thumb is one teaspoon of salt per pound of meat. This enhances the flavor beautifully.
Mastering the Sear: Cooking Your Filet Mignon
Achieving the Perfect Sear with Olive Oil
Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering, about 400°F. This high heat creates a beautiful crust on your steak.
Cooking Times for Medium-Rare and Medium
Place the steaks in the skillet and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to achieve perfection; aim for 130–135°F.
The Magic of Melting Garlic Herb Butter
During the last minute of cooking, add dollops of the chilled garlic herb butter on top of the steaks. As it melts, it creates a luxurious sauce that seeps into the meat.
The Crucial Resting Period
Why Resting is Non-Negotiable
Resting is essential for juicy steak. It allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
How to Rest Your Filet Mignon
Transfer the steaks to a cutting board and cover loosely with foil. Let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This small step makes a big difference.
Tips for the Best Filet Mignon
Using a Meat Thermometer for Precision
Always use a meat thermometer for precision cooking. This way, you can achieve your desired doneness without guessing.
Avoiding Common Cooking Mistakes
Be sure not to pierce the meat with tongs while cooking. This prevents the loss of precious juices. Remember, a good sear comes from patience, not prodding.
The Importance of Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs provide a burst of flavor. They are preferred over dried for this recipe, enhancing the overall experience.
Alternative Searing Oils
If you prefer, you can use high smoke point oils like canola or avocado oil instead of olive oil for searing. This can provide a different flavor profile.
Flavor Variations and Substitutions
Enhancing the Garlic Herb Butter
You can enhance the garlic herb butter by adding blue cheese, Parmesan, lemon zest, smoked paprika, or even a touch of cayenne for a kick. Get creative!
Working with Frozen Steaks
If you’re using frozen filet mignon, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking. This will help you achieve the best texture and doneness.
Serving and Storing Your Filet Mignon
Presentation Ideas
For presentation, slice the filet mignon and fan it out on a plate. Drizzle with any remaining melted garlic herb butter for a stunning look. Pair it with sides like roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storing Leftovers
Cooked leftovers can last up to three days in the refrigerator. The garlic herb butter can be refrigerated for up to two weeks or frozen for up to three months.
Related Recipes to try
- Garlic And Rosemary Beef
- Garlic Steak Tortellini
- Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Garlic Chicken
- Garlic Butter Sautéd Spinach
FAQs
What is the best way to cook filet mignon?
The best way to cook filet mignon is to sear it in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side, finishing with a resting period for juicy results.
How do you make garlic herb butter for steak?
To make garlic herb butter, mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, and seasonings. Chill it before serving for better flavor and presentation.
What sides pair well with filet mignon?
Sides that pair well with filet mignon include roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. They complement the rich flavors of the steak perfectly.
How long should I let filet mignon rest before serving?
Let filet mignon rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak tender and flavorful.
Can I use frozen filet mignon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen filet mignon as long as it is properly thawed before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to prepare this filet mignon with garlic herb butter, you can impress anyone at your dinner table. For more delightful recipes, check out Pinterest for inspiration. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or a quick family friendly meal, this dish is sure to please!
Filet Mignon with Garlic Herb Butter: Indulgent Perfection
Equipment
- skillet
- cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 filet mignon steaks 6–8 ounces each
- 3 –4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 /2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare garlic herb butter: Soften butter at room temperature for 30 minutes. Mix with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and thyme. Roll mixture into a log using parchment paper or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Prepare steaks: Remove steaks from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Sear steaks: Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat (approx. 400°F) until shimmering. Place steaks in the skillet and cook 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Add butter: During the last minute of cooking, place dollops of the chilled garlic herb butter on top of the steaks to melt.
- Rest: Transfer steaks to a cutting board and cover loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
– Do not pierce the meat with tongs while cooking to prevent juice loss.
– Fresh herbs are preferred over dried for better flavor and presentation.
– Season generously; a good rule of thumb is one teaspoon of salt per pound of meat.
– High smoke point oils like canola or avocado oil can be used instead of olive oil for searing.
