When it comes to impressing guests or simply treating yourself to an unforgettable meal, few dishes rival the elegance and flavor of Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce. This classic steakhouse favorite features tender, buttery filet mignon, perfectly seared to your desired doneness, and generously coated in a rich, creamy, and subtly spicy peppercorn sauce. It's a dish that looks incredibly fancy but is surprisingly straightforward to master in your own kitchen!
Forget complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen; this recipe delivers gourmet results with minimal fuss. The key is in selecting a quality cut of meat and understanding a few simple steps to bring out its best. You'll be amazed at how quickly you can create a restaurant-worthy experience right at home.
Why This Filet Mignon Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite
Our Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce isn't just a meal; it's an experience. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Gourmet Taste, Easy Process: Achieve steakhouse quality without the intimidation factor.
- Speedy Dinner: From prep to plate, this luxurious meal is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.
- Ultimate Comfort: The tender steak and creamy, flavorful sauce create a harmonious bite that's pure comfort.
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful sear on the steak and the rich sauce make for a visually stunning dish.
Ready to elevate your home cooking? Let's dive into the details of creating this magnificent dish.
Essential Tips for the Perfect Filet Mignon
Cooking filet mignon to perfection requires a bit of attention to detail, but it’s certainly achievable!
Choosing Your Steak
Filet mignon, also known as tenderloin, is prized for its tenderness. Look for steaks that are at least 1.5 inches thick for the best results. Thicker cuts allow for a beautiful crust to develop without overcooking the interior.
Room Temperature is Key
Always let your steaks sit out at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures a more even cook from edge to center and a better sear.
Mastering the Sear
A screaming hot pan is crucial for a beautiful crust. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook steaks in batches if necessary. The sizzle is your friend!
For more fantastic steak ideas and preparations, check out our guide to the Best Steak Marinade Recipe: Unforgettable Flavor Guaranteed.
Making the Rich Peppercorn Sauce
The peppercorn sauce is the star alongside the filet. It’s a simple pan sauce that builds incredible flavor from the fond (the browned bits) left in the skillet after searing the steak. This is where the magic happens!
The combination of toasted peppercorns, aromatic shallots, savory beef broth, and rich heavy cream creates a luscious, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the steak. A touch of Dijon mustard adds a pleasant tang that cuts through the richness, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
This exquisite dish deserves equally delightful companions. Consider serving your Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce alongside:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or a Loaded Baked Potatoes with Juicy Steak Bites for an indulgent experience.
- Crisp roasted asparagus or green beans for a touch of freshness.
- A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette to complement the rich flavors.
- For an elevated understanding of the star ingredient, you can explore more about peppercorns on Wikipedia.
Recipe Card
FAQs
What is the best way to cook filet mignon for medium-rare?
For a perfect medium-rare filet mignon, sear it in a hot skillet for 4-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 130u00b0F (54u00b0C) before resting.
Can I prepare the peppercorn sauce in advance?
Yes, the peppercorn sauce can be made a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat it over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if it's too thick.
What are some good side dishes to serve with filet mignon and peppercorn sauce?
Filet mignon with peppercorn sauce pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, creamy polenta, a simple green salad, or even garlic-infused rice.
What kind of peppercorns are best for the sauce?
Whole black peppercorns are traditional and provide a robust flavor. For a more nuanced taste, consider using a mix of black, green, and pink peppercorns.
Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: High-Protein
Description
Indulge in perfectly seared, tender filet mignon topped with a rich, creamy, and flavorful peppercorn sauce, perfect for a gourmet meal at home.
Ingredients
2 (6-8 oz) filet mignon steaks
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns (or a mix of green and pink peppercorns)
1 shallot, finely chopped
1/2 cup beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Remove the filet mignon from the refrigerator and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the filet mignon to the hot skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the time for your desired doneness. For medium, add an extra minute per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (130°F for medium-rare).
Step 3: In the last minute of cooking, add the butter to the pan. As it melts, spoon the butter over the steaks to baste them. Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate, loosely covered with foil.
Step 4: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the whole peppercorns. Toast them for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently.
Step 5: Add the chopped shallot to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
Step 6: Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow it to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until reduced by half.
Step 7: Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt to taste.
Step 8: Slice the filet mignon if desired and place it on plates. Drizzle the peppercorn sauce generously over the steaks and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
For best results, allow your steak to come to room temperature before searing. Don't rush the sauce; letting the broth reduce properly concentrates the flavor. Feel free to use a mix of different colored peppercorns for a more complex flavor profile and visual appeal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-searing
- Cuisine: French, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak with sauce
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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