If you are searching for a dish that brings together simplicity and sophistication, look no further than Filet Mignon with Garlic and Rosemary: A Simple and Elegant Recipe. This recipe captures the tender, melt-in-your-mouth quality of filet mignon, enhanced by the fragrant notes of garlic and the comforting, woodsy aroma of rosemary. Whether you are preparing a special dinner or just want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe delivers elegance with minimal fuss and ingredients that work harmoniously to create an unforgettable flavor experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, ensuring your filet mignon tastes luxurious and refined without complicated steps.
- 2 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each): The star of the dish, known for its buttery texture and rich flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve a perfect sear while adding subtle fruity notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the meat.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth, balancing the richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the oil with aromatic punch that mingles beautifully with rosemary.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped: Offers a fresh, pine-like fragrance that elevates the dish.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds creaminess and helps baste the steak for succulent juiciness.
How to Make Filet Mignon with Garlic and Rosemary: A Simple and Elegant Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Season
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, generously season both sides of your filet mignon with salt and black pepper. This basic seasoning sets the foundation for enhancing the natural, delicate flavor of the beef without overpowering it.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
Heat the olive oil in a sturdy skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully place the steaks in the pan. Sear them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a rich, caramelized crust—the key to locking in those savory juices that make every bite special.
Step 3: Add Garlic, Rosemary, and Butter
Reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic alongside the fresh rosemary to the skillet. Let them become fragrant as you swirl in the butter. Use a spoon to baste the steaks continuously with the melted butter, garlic, and rosemary mixture. This method infuses the meat with incredible flavor while keeping it moist and tender.
Step 4: Finish in the Oven
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and roast the steaks for about 5 to 7 minutes to achieve a perfect medium-rare doneness. Oven time may vary depending on thickness, so keep an eye out for that lovely pink center. Once done, take the skillet out and allow the steaks to rest on a warm plate for 5 minutes before slicing—this step lets all the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness.
How to Serve Filet Mignon with Garlic and Rosemary: A Simple and Elegant Recipe
Garnishes
A thoughtful garnish can complement this exquisite filet mignon. Fresh rosemary sprigs or a small sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving add aesthetic appeal and a final punch of flavor. You might also consider a light drizzle of the pan sauce or a few roasted garlic cloves alongside to echo the garlic’s essence.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with a range of sides from creamy mashed potatoes to bright, sautéed green beans. For a colorful contrast, try roasted root vegetables or a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Each side helps balance the richness of the filet while providing visual and textural variety on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving Filet Mignon with Garlic and Rosemary: A Simple and Elegant Recipe on a warmed wooden board or a sleek white platter transforms a simple dinner into a celebration. You can also slice the filet into medallions for an elegant shared appetizer or plate it alongside a swirl of herb-infused mashed potatoes for a restaurant-style presentation that will impress anyone lucky enough to sit at your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your filet mignon tasting fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, the steak will remain juicy and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a handy choice for next-day meals.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this recipe at a later date, wrap each cooked steak tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing in the freezer. Freezing preserves the quality for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheating filet mignon gently is essential to maintain its tender texture. Warm it slowly in a low oven or an iron skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or butter to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving as it tends to dry out this delicate cut and diminish the wonderful flavors.
FAQs
What is the best cut of meat for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for filet mignon, prized for its tenderness and mild but rich flavor. Its fine grain and fat content make it ideal for quick searing and simple seasoning like garlic and rosemary.
Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
While fresh rosemary is preferred for its vibrant flavor and aroma, dried rosemary can be used in a pinch. Use about half the amount and add it earlier when cooking to help release its flavor fully.
How do I tell when the filet mignon is done?
For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130-135°F (54-57°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, the steak should feel firm but still springy when pressed gently in the center.
Can I make this recipe without an oven?
Yes, you can finish cooking the steaks in the skillet by lowering the heat and covering it to allow the meat to cook through gently. Just be careful to avoid overcooking and keep the butter basting the key to moisture.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
Rich red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complement the flavors of filet mignon beautifully. Their tannins balance the buttery, garlicky richness and enhance the overall dining experience.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give Filet Mignon with Garlic and Rosemary: A Simple and Elegant Recipe a try in your kitchen. It’s an effortless way to serve up something special that feels indulgent yet approachable. The blend of tender filet, fragrant garlic, and fresh rosemary comes together like a dream, making every bite a little celebration. Happy cooking and bon appétit!
Print
Filet Mignon with Garlic and Rosemary: A Simple and Elegant Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic filet mignon recipe features perfectly seared and oven-finished steaks infused with garlic, rosemary, and butter for a tender, flavorful, and elegant meal that’s ready in just 25 minutes. Ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet dinner at home.
Ingredients
Filet Mignon Steak
- 2 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for finishing the steaks after searing.
- Season Steaks: Generously season the filet mignon steaks on all sides with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Heat Skillet: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot enough for searing.
- Sear Steaks: Place the steaks in the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a rich brown crust.
- Add Aromatics: Add minced garlic and chopped rosemary to the skillet, allowing their fragrance to infuse the oil and steaks.
- Baste with Butter: Add butter to the skillet and tilt it, using a spoon to baste melted butter over the steaks to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Oven Finish: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook the steaks for 5-7 minutes to reach medium-rare doneness.
- Rest Steaks: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the steaks rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
Notes
- Use a cast iron or oven-safe skillet for best results when transferring from stovetop to oven.
- Adjust oven cooking time based on desired doneness: less time for rare, more for medium or well-done.
- Letting the steak rest after cooking is crucial for juicy, tender results.
- For more flavor, marinate steaks or add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the skillet while basting.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
