Are you ready to impress your friends and family with a gourmet meal at home? In this blog, I’ll show you how to prepare a delicious filet mignon with a rich peppercorn cream sauce. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a fancy dinner night. Let’s dive into the ingredients, steps, and tips to create a meal that is both easy and elegant. Your taste buds will thank you!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Profile: The combination of the savory filet mignon with the zesty peppercorn cream sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that is sure to impress.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Impressive Presentation: Serving filet mignon topped with a rich cream sauce garnished with parsley makes for an elegant dish that looks as good as it tastes.
- Versatile Ingredients: The ingredients are simple and commonly found, making it easy to whip up this gourmet meal without a trip to the specialty store.
Ingredients
Filet Mignon Steaks
- 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
Seasoning Requirements
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 medium shallot, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns, crushed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
To make filet mignon with peppercorn cream sauce, you need high-quality ingredients. First, choose two filet mignon steaks. Each should weigh about six ounces. This cut is tender and flavorful.
Next, gather your seasoning. Use salt and black pepper to enhance the meat's taste. You will also need two tablespoons of olive oil for cooking. This oil helps create a nice sear on the steaks.
For the sauce, you will need one medium shallot. Chop it finely for the best flavor. Crush one tablespoon of whole black peppercorns to release their oils. You will also need one cup of heavy cream for a rich texture. Add one tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick. Lastly, include one teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavor. Don’t forget fresh parsley for garnish. This adds color and freshness to your dish.
With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a delicious meal that impresses every time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Steaks
Start by drying the filet mignon steaks with a paper towel. This step helps get a nice crust. Next, season both sides of the steaks with salt and black pepper. Don’t hold back; good seasoning makes a big difference.
Cooking the Steaks to Perfection
Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet. Use medium-high heat for best results. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned steaks. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. I recommend medium-rare for the best flavor and tenderness. After cooking, take the steaks out of the skillet and place them on a plate. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil. This keeps them warm while you make the sauce.
Making the Peppercorn Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add a finely chopped medium shallot. Sauté it for about 2 minutes until it softens. Then, add one tablespoon of crushed black peppercorns. Stir the mixture well. Pour in one cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously. You want the cream to come to a gentle simmer. After that, mix in one tablespoon of Dijon mustard and one teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Finally, drizzle this creamy sauce over the rested filet mignon steaks. Enjoy the rich flavors!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Right Doneness
To cook filet mignon well, use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F. If you prefer medium, go for 140°F. Sear the steaks for 4-5 minutes per side. Let them rest after cooking. This step helps keep the juices inside. Cover them loosely with foil while resting.
Enhancing the Sauce Flavor
Add layers of taste to your sauce. Start with sautéed shallots for sweetness. Use fresh, crushed black peppercorns for a bold kick. Stir in Dijon mustard for tanginess. Worcestershire sauce adds depth. Simmer the sauce until it thickens. This process makes the flavors come together nicely.
Presentation Tips for Serving
Make your dish look as good as it tastes. Slice the filet mignon for a beautiful plate. Drizzle the rich peppercorn cream sauce over the top. Add freshly chopped parsley for color. A sprinkle of parsley also adds a fresh taste. Serve on a warm plate to keep everything nice.
Pro Tips
- Rest the Meat: Allowing the steaks to rest after cooking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Use Fresh Peppercorns: For the best flavor, use freshly crushed whole black peppercorns instead of pre-ground pepper.
- Control the Heat: Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the steaks to achieve a nice sear, but be cautious not to burn the oil.
- Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to customize the cream sauce with additional herbs or spices to match your taste preferences.
Variations
Alternative Sauces to Try
If you want to switch things up, try these sauces with your filet mignon. A rich red wine reduction adds depth. Just simmer red wine down with some beef broth and herbs. You can also use a classic Béarnaise sauce. It's made with egg yolks, butter, and herbs, giving a creamy taste. Another great option is a blue cheese sauce. Melt blue cheese into heavy cream for a bold flavor.
Different Cooking Methods
You can cook filet mignon in many ways. Grilling gives it a smoky flavor. Just marinate the steaks and grill them for a few minutes on each side. Broiling is another option. Place the steaks on a pan and broil until they reach the right doneness. Sous vide is perfect for precise cooking. Seal the steaks in a bag and cook in water at a set temperature for perfect results. Finish with a quick sear in a hot pan for a nice crust.
Pairing Suggestions for Sides
Pair your filet mignon with tasty sides. Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice. They soak up the sauce well. Roasted vegetables add color and crunch. Try carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. A fresh salad with greens and a light vinaigrette balances the meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a comforting touch.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Filet Mignon
To store leftover filet mignon, let it cool first. Wrap each steak in plastic wrap or foil. Place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge. Enjoy your leftovers within 3 days for the best taste.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, take the steak out of the fridge. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 250°F. Place the steak on a baking sheet. Heat for about 20-25 minutes. This keeps the meat juicy. You can also use a skillet. Heat it over low heat for 5-7 minutes. Flip it once for even warmth.
Freezing Tips for Best Quality
If you need to freeze filet mignon, wrap each steak tightly. Use plastic wrap and then foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. Label the package with the date. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This way, it stays fresh and tasty.
FAQs
What is the best way to cook filet mignon?
The best way to cook filet mignon is to sear it. Start by patting the steaks dry. Then, season them with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes. This method gives you a nice crust and keeps the inside tender. You can check for doneness using a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
How long to let filet mignon rest?
Let your filet mignon rest for about 5-10 minutes. This step is key. Resting allows the juices to redistribute. If you cut into it too soon, those juices escape. Cover the steaks loosely with foil while they rest. This keeps them warm and juicy.
Can I use a different type of steak for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other steaks for this recipe. Ribeye or sirloin works well. These cuts have good flavor and tenderness. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the steak. Cooking times may vary. Always check for doneness to ensure a tasty dish.
This guide covered filet mignon, seasonings, and sauces. You learned to prepare, cook, and serve these tender steaks. I shared tips for doneness and sauce flavor. You also saw ways to store and reheat leftovers. Remember, you can try different sauces and sides to keep it fresh. Enjoy your cooking adventure and impress your guests with these easy steps!
