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Perfect Filet Mignon Recipe with Easy Red Wine Sauce

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A simple yet elegant recipe for buttery tender filet mignon paired with a rich red wine reduction sauce, perfect for special occasions or indulgent dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each, trimmed of excess fat)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for basting)
  • 2 cloves garlic (peeled and lightly crushed)
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for flavor)
  • 1 cup dry red wine (like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 shallot (finely minced)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter (to finish the sauce)
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Instructions

  1. Season the filet mignon generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
  2. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it get shimmering hot.
  3. Place the steaks in the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms. Don’t move the steaks while they’re searing!
  4. Lower the heat to medium and add the butter, garlic, and rosemary. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks continuously for 2 minutes.
  5. Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness: 125°F (52°C) for rare, 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium.
  6. Remove the steaks from the pan and rest them on a plate, loosely covered with foil.
  7. In the same skillet, add the minced shallot and sauté until softened. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits.
  8. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, letting it reduce by half. Stir in the butter and sugar, whisking until smooth.
  9. Serve the filet mignon with the red wine reduction drizzled on top. Enjoy!

Notes

[‘Let the steaks come to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.’, ‘Pat the steaks dry with paper towels before searing to achieve a crisp crust.’, ‘Use fresh, good-quality red wine for the sauce to enhance flavor.’, ‘Don’t skip the resting time after cooking to ensure juicy steaks.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: filet mignon, steak recipe, red wine sauce, elegant dinner, special occasion meal