Filet Mignon with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce

Introduction

There’s something undeniably luxurious about serving filet mignon for dinner, especially when it’s draped in a rich, creamy peppercorn sauce. I recently tried this recipe, and it quickly became a family favorite. The tenderness of the steak paired with the bold flavors of the sauce was a culinary match made in heaven. My family couldn’t stop raving about it! Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this filet mignon recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• For the Steak:
• 2 filet mignon steaks
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• For the Creamy Peppercorn Sauce:
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp black peppercorns, crushed
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Steak

1. Season the Steaks:

• Generously season both sides of the filet mignon steaks with salt and pepper.

1. Heat the Skillet:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.

1. Sear the Steaks:

• Once the skillet is hot, add the steaks. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness. For medium, cook about 4-5 minutes per side.

1. Rest the Steaks:

• Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate while you prepare the sauce. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Make the Peppercorn Sauce

1. Melt Remaining Butter:

• In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Use the leftover fond (the browned bits from the steak) to add flavor to the sauce.

1. Sauté Peppercorns:

• Add the crushed black peppercorns and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them; you want to enhance their flavor.

1. Add Mustard and Broth:

• Stir in the Dijon mustard, beef broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to combine and thicken slightly.

1. Cook the Sauce:

• Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a creamy consistency. Season with salt to taste.

Assemble and Serve

1. Plate the Dish:

• Pour the creamy peppercorn sauce generously over the filet mignon.

1. Garnish:

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

1. Serve with Sides:

• Serve your filet mignon with sides such as creamy mashed potatoes and a medley of steamed greens.

1. Enjoy:

• Sit back and enjoy this delicious, homemade meal that rivals any fine dining experience!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 2
• Calories: 550
• Protein: 42g
• Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Cholesterol: 130mg
• Sodium: 800mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• For a Complete Meal:
• Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
• Add a side salad for freshness.
• Serving Style:
• Serve the steak whole or sliced for easier eating.
• Drizzle extra sauce on the side for dipping.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Quality Meat:

• Opt for high-quality filet mignon for the best flavor and tenderness.

1. Use Fresh Peppercorns:

• Crushing your own peppercorns enhances the flavor of the sauce significantly.

1. Adjust for Spice:

• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of crushed peppercorns.

1. Sauce Thickness:

• For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer; for a thinner sauce, add a splash more beef broth.

1. Resting Time:

• Letting the steak rest is crucial for achieving a juicy result. Aim for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Add Mushrooms:
• For an earthy flavor, add sautéed mushrooms to the peppercorn sauce.
• Red Wine Sauce:
• Substitute some of the beef broth with red wine for a deeper flavor profile.
• Herb Variation:
• Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the sauce for additional complexity.

Serving Suggestions

• Wine Pairing:
• A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with filet mignon.
• Sides:
• Consider sides like garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed asparagus, or a classic Caesar salad.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage:
• Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating:
• Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the meat from drying out.
• Freezing:
• While steak can be frozen, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze, wrap tightly and consume within 2-3 months.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use another cut of beef?

• Yes, sirloin or ribeye can also work, but cooking times will vary.

1. How do I know when the steak is done?

• Use a meat thermometer; 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.

1. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

• Yes, but it may thicken; you can thin it out with a bit of broth or cream when reheating.

1. What should I serve with filet mignon?

• Classic pairings include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad.

1. Is this dish suitable for special occasions?

• Absolutely! It’s perfect for anniversaries, date nights, or holidays.

1. Can I substitute heavy cream?

• You can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce may not be as rich.

1. What’s the best way to crush peppercorns?

• Use a mortar and pestle or a rolling pin on a cutting board.

1. How do I prevent the steak from overcooking?

• Keep an eye on the internal temperature and remove it from the heat promptly.

1. Can I add cheese to the sauce?

• Yes, adding grated Parmesan can give the sauce an extra creamy texture.

1. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   • Yes, if you use gluten-free beef broth and check for gluten in the Dijon mustard.

Conclusion

This Filet Mignon with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce recipe is a true delight, combining the tenderness of perfectly cooked steak with the rich and savory flavors of a gourmet sauce. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this dish elevates any meal into a fine dining experience. With the tips and variations provided, you can customize this recipe to suit your preferences and impress your family or guests. Enjoy the process of cooking and the satisfaction of serving a delicious meal!

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