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Pan-Seared Filet Mignon With Garlic Butter

Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Garlic Butter

Juicy, tender filet mignon steaks pan-seared to perfection and basted with aromatic garlic, thyme, and rosemary butter, finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and fresh parsley.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 2 filet mignon steaks about 200g each, 4cm thick
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil such as vegetable or rapeseed
  • Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing

Method
 

  1. Prepare the steaks: Pat the filets dry with kitchen paper. Season generously on all sides with fine sea salt and black pepper. Let them sit on a plate while you heat the pan. The surface should feel dry to the touch, not tacky.
  2. Heat the pan: Place a large, heavy-based frying pan over a medium-high heat for a good 3-4 minutes. Add the neutral oil and swirl to coat. The oil should shimmer and ripple when you tilt the pan — a wisp of smoke is your cue that it's ready.
  3. Sear the steaks: Carefully lay the steaks in the pan, away from you to avoid splatter. You’ll hear a fierce, satisfying sizzle. Cook for 3-4 minutes without moving them. The underside should be a deep, mahogany brown with a crisp edge.
  4. Flip and baste: Turn the steaks over using tongs. Add the butter, garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the melting, foaming butter over the steaks for another 3-4 minutes. The air will be thick with the scent of toasted garlic and fragrant herbs.
  5. Check the temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 52°C. For medium, 57°C. The steak should feel springy yet firm when pressed with your finger.
  6. Rest the steaks: Transfer the steaks to a cutting board or warm plate. Spoon any remaining garlic butter from the pan over the top. Let them rest, uncovered, for a full 5-7 minutes. You’ll see the juices settle and the internal temperature rise by a degree or two.
  7. Slice and serve: Slice the steaks against the grain into thick medallions, if you prefer, or serve whole. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh parsley.

Notes

Ensure steaks are patted very dry for a perfect sear. Use an instant-read thermometer for precise doneness. Resting the steaks is crucial for juiciness.