Filet Mignon with Cream Sauce

Introduction

Indulge in the epitome of culinary elegance with Filet Mignon with Cream Sauce. This classic dish combines the tender, buttery texture of filet mignon with a rich and decadent cream sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that is perfect for special occasions or an exquisite weeknight dinner. This article will guide you through creating this restaurant-worthy dish in your own kitchen, offering tips and tricks to ensure a perfect result every time.

Filet Mignon with Cream Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide

Selecting the Perfect Filet Mignon

The quality of your filet mignon significantly impacts the final dish. Here’s what to look for:

• Cut: Choose center-cut filet mignon for uniform thickness and tenderness.
• Marbling: Look for steaks with good marbling (flecks of fat within the muscle). This contributes to flavor and moisture.
• Thickness: Opt for steaks that are about 1.5 to 2 inches thick. This ensures they cook evenly.
• Freshness: Purchase your filet mignon from a reputable butcher or grocery store, ensuring it’s fresh and well-handled.

Preparing the Filet Mignon

Proper preparation is key to a perfectly cooked steak.

1. Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the steaks from the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before cooking. This allows for even cooking.
2. Pat Dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the steaks dry. This helps achieve a beautiful sear.
3. Season Generously: Season liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be afraid to be generous; the seasoning is crucial for flavor.

Cooking the Filet Mignon

There are several methods to cook filet mignon. This recipe uses the stovetop-to-oven method for optimal results.

1. Sear the Steaks: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) over high heat. Add a high-smoke-point oil, such as avocado or canola oil. Sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms.
2. Oven Finish: Place the skillet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Cook for 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, 7-9 minutes for medium, or longer for more well-done. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
   • Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
   • Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
   • Medium-Well: 145-155°F (63-68°C)
3. Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the oven and let them rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Tent loosely with foil to keep warm.

Crafting the Cream Sauce

The cream sauce is the star of the show, adding richness and depth to the filet mignon.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 shallot, finely minced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Melt the butter in the same skillet used to cook the steaks (after removing any excess oil).
  2. Add the shallot and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this is called deglazing and adds tons of flavor).
  4. Reduce the broth by half, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your Filet Mignon with Cream Sauce with these serving suggestions:

• Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a crisp green salad.
• Wine Pairing: A bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

Conclusion

Filet Mignon with Cream Sauce is a truly unforgettable dish. By following these steps and tips, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. The combination of the tender filet mignon and the luscious cream sauce is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy this decadent treat and elevate your culinary skills!