Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or hassle? Then look no further! This petite filet of beef recipe is your answer. Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. It’s a perfect choice for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply a weeknight treat when you want to feel pampered. This recipe offers a fantastic balance of healthy eating and delicious taste, making it a winner for anyone looking for quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) petite filet mignon steaks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Filet:
- Pat the petite filet mignon steaks dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a beautiful sear.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to season on both sides.
Searing and Cooking the Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the steaks in the skillet.
- Sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, until a nice brown crust forms. This step is crucial for developing rich flavor and a tender texture.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the skillet and swirl to coat. Add the minced garlic and rosemary, and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- If using, pour in the red wine and let it simmer for a minute, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the sauce to thicken slightly. This step adds depth and complexity to the flavor.
Finishing the Dish:
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Cook for 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the oven.
- Once cooked, remove the steaks from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Petite Filet Mignon:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the steaks in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your steaks are cooked to your liking.
- Let the steaks rest: This is crucial for a juicy and tender result.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your steaks and your preferred level of doneness.
Variations:
- Mushroom sauce: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic and rosemary for an earthy, flavorful addition.
- Peppercorn sauce: Add cracked black peppercorns to the butter along with the garlic and rosemary for a spicy kick.
- Creamy sauce: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This petite filet of beef recipe is a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It's a testament to how homemade cooking can deliver delicious dishes that are both impressive and easy to create. Enjoy!