Introduction
When you want to impress with a restaurant-quality dish at home, this Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Rich Herb Gravy is your go-to recipe. The filet mignon is perfectly seared to lock in its tenderness and flavor, while the herb-infused gravy takes the dish to an entirely new level. Simple to prepare yet incredibly elegant, this dish is ideal for romantic dinners or celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Filet Mignon:
- 2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each, 1.5 inches thick)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Herb Gravy:
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup dry red wine or beef broth
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Filet Mignon:
- Remove steaks from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2️⃣ Sear the Steaks:
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- When the oil is shimmering, add the steaks. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time for desired doneness.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet during the last minute of cooking and baste the steaks by spooning the melted butter over them.
- Remove steaks from the skillet, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5-7 minutes.
3️⃣ Make the Herb Gravy:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté the chopped shallot for 2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze the skillet with red wine (or beef broth), scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add beef broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Stir in fresh thyme and parsley, then season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the gravy thickens.
4️⃣ Serve the Filet Mignon:
- Place each rested steak on a plate.
- Spoon the rich herb gravy over the top.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Rich Herb Gravy with:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Steamed Asparagus
- Crispy Roasted Potatoes
- Creamy Spinach
Tips for Success
- Perfect Sear: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron for the best sear.
- Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (125°F for medium-rare, 135°F for medium).
- Rest the Steak: Always rest your steaks to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~38g
- Carbohydrates: ~8g
- Fat: ~30g
- Fiber: ~1g
Conclusion
This Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Rich Herb Gravy is a culinary masterpiece that will elevate your dining experience. The tender, buttery filet mignon paired with the luscious, herb-infused gravy is a combination that never fails to impress. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a celebration, this recipe is guaranteed to wow your guests. Give it a try and savor the magic of this elegant dish!