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Perfect Filet Mignon Recipe with Garlic Herb Butter for Easy Date Night Dinner

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A quick and easy recipe for tender, juicy filet mignon topped with a flavorful garlic herb butter, perfect for an elegant yet fuss-free date night dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 filet mignon steaks (68 oz / 170225 g each), thick-cut and trimmed of excess fat
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (preferably mild extra virgin)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • Pinch of salted butter or sea salt flakes for finishing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the garlic herb butter: In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest (if using). Mix thoroughly and set aside at room temperature.
  2. Pat dry the filet mignon steaks with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes if possible.
  3. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 3-5 minutes).
  4. Place the steaks in the hot skillet and sear without moving for 2 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for another 2 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of the prepared garlic herb butter to the pan. Tilt the skillet and baste the steaks repeatedly with the melted butter for 3-4 minutes.
  6. Check doneness: For medium-rare, cook until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) or use the touch test (steak should feel springy). Adjust time for thickness.
  7. Remove steaks from skillet and place on a warm plate. Top each with remaining garlic herb butter. Tent loosely with foil and rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Let steaks rest at room temperature before cooking for even doneness. Do not skip resting after cooking to lock in juices. If butter browns too quickly during basting, lower heat. Butter can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge. For thicker cuts, finish in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: filet mignon, steak recipe, garlic herb butter, date night dinner, easy steak recipe, seared steak, butter basted steak