Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Recipe
This Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce recipe features tender, succulent filet mignon steaks seared to perfection and served with a creamy, bold peppercorn sauce. Ideal for special occasions or elevating a weeknight meal, this dish combines simple, quality ingredients with easy-to-follow steps for a restaurant-worthy experience at home.
- Author: Julia
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
For the Steak
- Filet mignon steaks, 1.5 to 2 inches thick (quantity as desired)
- Salt, to taste
- Whole peppercorns, coarsely cracked, to taste
- Butter, 2 tablespoons
- Olive oil, 1 tablespoon
For the Peppercorn Sauce
- Shallots, 2 small, finely chopped
- Beef broth or stock, 1/2 cup
- Brandy or whiskey (optional), 2 tablespoons
- Cracked peppercorns, 1 tablespoon
- Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon
- Heavy cream, 1/2 cup
- Salt, to taste
- Prepare the Steaks: Bring the filet mignon steaks to room temperature and pat them dry. Season generously with salt and lightly crush whole peppercorns over the surfaces, pressing gently to adhere. This preps your steak for a flavorful sear that locks in juices.
- Sear the Filet Mignon: Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add butter along with a splash of olive oil. Once the fat is shimmering, sear the steaks for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a caramelized, golden crust. Avoid moving them too much to ensure a perfect crust.
- Rest the Steaks: Transfer the steaks to a warm plate and cover loosely with foil. Let them rest for at least 5 minutes while you prepare the sauce. This keeps the juices locked in, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.
- Make the Peppercorn Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add chopped shallots. Sauté until translucent and fragrant. Deglaze the pan with beef broth or a splash of brandy if using, scraping up those flavorful browned bits. Stir in cracked peppercorns and Dijon mustard, then pour in heavy cream. Let it simmer gently until thickened to a velvety consistency.
- Combine and Serve: Return the filet mignon to the pan briefly to coat them in the sauce and warm through. Plate your steak, spoon the peppercorn sauce generously on top, and serve immediately to impress your guests.
Notes
- Choose quality meat: Opt for USDA Prime or Choice filet for the best tenderness and flavor.
- Don’t skip the resting step: It’s key to juicy steaks that retain their flavorful juices.
- Freshly crack peppercorns: Use a mortar and pestle or pepper grinder for vibrant, aromatic flavor in the sauce.
- Use a cast iron skillet: Ensures even heat and a superior sear on your filet mignon.
- Control your sauce consistency: Simmer gently and stir often to avoid curdling the cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak with sauce
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: filet mignon, peppercorn sauce, steak dinner, creamy sauce, easy steak recipe, special occasion meal