Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or fuss? Then look no further! This medallion beef steak recipe is your ticket to a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy dinner. Perfect for a romantic night in, a special occasion, or simply a weeknight treat, these pan-seared medallions are packed with flavor and require minimal cleanup. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this quick dinner idea that's guaranteed to become a new favorite in your homemade cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 2 (8-ounce) beef tenderloin steaks, about 1 inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/4 cup dry red wine (optional)
Equipment:
- Large skillet (cast iron is ideal)
- Meat thermometer
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
Pat the beef steaks dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures a beautiful sear. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the steaks in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until a deep brown crust forms. This is key for a delicious, flavorful steak!
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, and thyme leaves to the skillet. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steaks for about 2 minutes per side, basting continuously. This adds incredible richness and flavor.
Step 4: Deglaze (Optional)
If using red wine, carefully pour it into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the sauce to slightly reduce.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steaks. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F; for medium, 140-145°F; and for medium-well, 150-155°F. Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice the steaks against the grain and serve immediately. The delicious pan sauce is perfect drizzled over the top. Enjoy your restaurant-quality meal!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Medallion Beef Steaks:
- Room temperature steaks: Taking your steaks out of the refrigerator 30-60 minutes before cooking allows for even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure enough space between steaks for proper searing. If necessary, sear in batches.
- Resting is essential: Allowing the steaks to rest is crucial for achieving optimal tenderness and flavor.
Variations:
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or parsley.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Garlic butter: Use flavored butter, such as garlic herb butter, for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 35-40g Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal option, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and best recipes without sacrificing flavor. It's a wonderful addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!