Carnivore Filet Mignon Feast
Highlighted under: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food
I absolutely adore hosting special dinners, and my Carnivore Filet Mignon Feast has become a staple that never fails to impress. The combination of mouthwatering filet mignon with savory herbs and a perfectly seared crust elevates any occasion. Preparing this dish not only brings my friends and family together but also allows me to showcase my love for quality ingredients. With a few simple techniques, I can create a restaurant-quality meal that delights every palate. Join me as I share my secrets to making this exquisite dish that everyone will rave about!
During one of our recent family gatherings, I was inspired to create the Carnivore Filet Mignon Feast. We had guests with varying tastes, and I wanted to offer something that satisfied everyone's cravings for rich, meaty flavors. As I seared the filets to perfection, I marveled at how simple, quality ingredients could create such a luxurious dish. The secret is not just in the steak but also in the careful balance of seasonings that enhance its natural flavor.
One specific technique I’ve found makes all the difference is letting the fillets rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender, juicy steak that melts in your mouth. Pair it with a side of seasonal vegetables, and you've got a feast that looks just as good as it tastes!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that makes each bite unforgettable
- Rich, savory flavors enhanced by fresh herbs and garlic
- Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent weeknight dinner
Perfecting Your Steak Cooking Technique
For an exceptional crust on your filet mignon, preheat the cast-iron skillet to a medium-high heat, ensuring it's hot enough to sear the steaks. The ideal temperature for searing is around 400°F to 450°F (204°C to 232°C). If the skillet isn't hot enough, the steaks will steam rather than sear, leading to a less desirable texture. When you place the steaks in the skillet, you should hear a strong sizzling sound, indicating that a good sear is forming.
Timing is crucial for the perfect medium-rare steak. After you've seared one side for approximately 4-5 minutes, flip the steak and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 130°F (54°C) to guarantee that melt-in-your-mouth experience. For larger or thicker cuts, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly longer.
Choosing Seasonal Vegetables
Choosing the right seasonal vegetables can elevate your Carnivore Filet Mignon Feast. Opt for vibrant and fresh options like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. These veggies not only complement the rich flavors of the filet but also offer a color contrast on the plate, making your presentation appealing. Seasonal vegetables are often more flavorful and nutritious, providing a delightful balance to the meal.
When sautéing the vegetables, add the butter only after the pan is sufficiently heated to ensure it doesn’t burn. Sauté them until they are tender but still crisp, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Visually, they should be bright and glossy but not overcooked to maintain good texture and flavor. For a twist, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Resting the Steaks and Serving Suggestions
Resting the steaks after cooking is a vital step that shouldn’t be overlooked. It allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak. Cover the steaks loosely with foil on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This simple technique can significantly improve the taste and texture of your filet mignon, ensuring that each bite is succulent and tender.
When serving, consider garnishing the filet mignon with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, to add a pop of color. You can also drizzle the steaks with the pan juices for an added flavor boost. To scale this recipe for larger gatherings, simply increase the quantities while maintaining the same cooking techniques—just make sure to use multiple skillets to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Carnivore Filet Mignon Feast
For the Filet Mignon
- 4 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
For the Side
- 2 cups seasonal vegetables (e.g., asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Gathering these ingredients will set you up for a stunning meal that is surprisingly easy to prepare!
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Steaks
Take the filet mignon steaks out of the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps in achieving an even cook throughout.
Season the Steaks
Rub the steaks with olive oil, and season generously with salt, pepper, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme on both sides.
Cook the Steaks
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it's very hot. Place the steaks in the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them. Flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes for medium-rare.
Rest the Steaks
Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board, covered loosely with foil, for 5-10 minutes.
Prepare the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the butter and seasonal vegetables. Sauté over medium heat until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve
Plate the filet mignon alongside the sautéed vegetables. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the steaks for added flavor. Enjoy!
Now that you've prepared this gorgeous dish, gather your loved ones and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Pro Tips
- For the best results, use high-quality filet mignon and ensure your skillet is hot before adding the steaks to get a perfect sear.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store the filet mignon separately from the vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the steak's texture, it’s best to reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally to ensure even warming. Avoid using high heat in the microwave, as it can cause the meat to become tough and dry.
For long-term storage, you can freeze the cooked, cooled filet mignon. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat using the same stovetop method for optimal results.
Variations to Explore
Feel free to experiment with different herb combinations based on seasonal availability. For a more robust flavor, consider marinating your filet mignon in a mixture of red wine, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. This not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the meat, making it even more enjoyable.
You can also explore variations on the vegetable side. Try roasting instead of sautéing for a deeper, caramelized flavor, or toss in some garlic or chili flakes to increase the heat. Adding nuts, like toasted pine nuts, can provide a delightful crunch, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Common Troubleshooting Tips
If your steaks turn out tough, it may be due to overcooking. Stick to the recommended cooking times and use a thermometer to get accurate reads on doneness. For a more forgiving cooking experience, consider opting for a thicker cut of meat, which will be more forgiving in terms of timing.
In case you underseason the steaks, remember that finishing with flaked sea salt right before serving can elevate the flavor. Additionally, if the pan juices aren't as flavorful after cooking, consider deglazing the skillet with a splash of wine or broth, scraping any fond off the bottom to capture all the delicious bits.
Questions About Recipes
→ What is the best way to cook filet mignon?
Searing on high heat and then finishing in the oven is ideal for achieving a perfect cook, but stovetop cooking can also work wonderfully.
→ How long should I let filet mignon rest after cooking?
Letting it rest for about 5-10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender steak.
→ Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
While filet mignon is ideal for its tenderness, other cuts like ribeye or sirloin can also be used, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
→ What sides pair well with filet mignon?
Sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement filet mignon beautifully.
Carnivore Filet Mignon Feast
I absolutely adore hosting special dinners, and my Carnivore Filet Mignon Feast has become a staple that never fails to impress. The combination of mouthwatering filet mignon with savory herbs and a perfectly seared crust elevates any occasion. Preparing this dish not only brings my friends and family together but also allows me to showcase my love for quality ingredients. With a few simple techniques, I can create a restaurant-quality meal that delights every palate. Join me as I share my secrets to making this exquisite dish that everyone will rave about!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Filet Mignon
- 4 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
For the Side
- 2 cups seasonal vegetables (e.g., asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How-To Steps
Take the filet mignon steaks out of the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps in achieving an even cook throughout.
Rub the steaks with olive oil, and season generously with salt, pepper, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme on both sides.
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it's very hot. Place the steaks in the skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them. Flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes for medium-rare.
Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board, covered loosely with foil, for 5-10 minutes.
In the same skillet, add the butter and seasonal vegetables. Sauté over medium heat until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Plate the filet mignon alongside the sautéed vegetables. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the steaks for added flavor. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For the best results, use high-quality filet mignon and ensure your skillet is hot before adding the steaks to get a perfect sear.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Total Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 87mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 54g