Craving a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon but don't want to break the bank or leave the house? Then you're in the right place! This recipe brings the legendary Ruth's Chris experience directly to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to achieve that signature buttery, perfectly seared crust and tender interior, transforming a simple weeknight dinner into a special occasion. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this delicious and relatively quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
- 2 (8-ounce) filet mignon steaks, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing Your Steaks
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Pat the steaks dry: This crucial step ensures a beautiful sear. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the surface of the filet mignon steaks. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Bring to Room Temperature: Let the steaks sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows for even cooking.
Searing and Cooking the Filet Mignon
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Heat the Pan: In a large cast-iron skillet (or other heavy-bottomed pan), heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and foaming.
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Sear the Steaks: Carefully place the steaks in the hot pan. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness. Don't overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the steaks in batches.
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Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the pan. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter and herb mixture over the steaks for the last minute of cooking.
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Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium.
Resting and Serving
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Rest the Steaks: Once cooked, remove the steaks from the pan and place them on a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let them rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
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Serve: Slice the steaks against the grain and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Filet Mignon:
- High Heat is Key: Using high heat is essential for achieving a good sear.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches ensures even searing and prevents the steaks from steaming.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the most accurate way to determine doneness.
- Let it Rest: Resting is crucial for a juicy steak.
Variations:
- Garlic Herb Butter: For extra flavor, try adding a pat of garlic herb butter to the top of each steak during the last minute of cooking.
- Peppercorn Crust: Before searing, coat the steaks in freshly cracked black peppercorns for a delicious peppery crust.
- Red Wine Reduction: Deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine after removing the steaks to create a rich sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on size and cooking method)
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 25-35g
This Ruth's Chris inspired filet mignon recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a delicious dish that's perfect for a special occasion or a simple yet satisfying weeknight dinner. Enjoy the homemade cooking experience and the taste of restaurant-quality food right in your kitchen!