Filet mignon is a premium cut of beef known for its tenderness and buttery texture. It is often considered one of the most luxurious and flavorful steaks. Cooking filet mignon on the stove is a popular method that allows you to achieve a perfect sear and maintain the meat’s juicy interior.
When it comes to cooking filet mignon on the stove, timing is crucial. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak and personal preference for doneness. However, a general guideline is to cook a 1-inch thick filet mignon for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. For a thicker or more well-done steak, you can increase the cooking time accordingly.
To ensure an even sear and cooking, it is essential to preheat the skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or clarified butter. Season the steak with salt and pepper or your preferred seasoning before adding it to the hot skillet. Cook the steak undisturbed for the suggested time on each side, resisting the temptation to flip or move it too soon.
A key tip for cooking filet mignon on the stove is to use a meat thermometer to precisely monitor the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the steak should reach an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Cooking filet mignon on the stove can be a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy this indulgent cut of beef. With proper timing and attention, you can quickly master the art of cooking filet mignon to perfection, impressing your guests and treating yourself to an unforgettable dining experience.
Best Way to Cook Filet Mignon on Stove
Cooking filet mignon on the stove is a great way to enjoy this premium cut of beef. The stove provides even heat distribution, allowing you to sear the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Here is the best way to cook filet mignon on the stove:
1. Start by bringing the filet mignon to room temperature. Take the steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking.
2. Season the filet mignon with salt and pepper. You can also add any other spices or herbs of your choice to enhance the flavor.
3. Preheat a skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan and let it heat up for a minute.
4. Carefully place the filet mignon in the hot pan. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust the cooking time according to your desired doneness.
5. While cooking, avoid moving the steak around too much to ensure a good sear. Use tongs to flip the steak and avoid piercing it with a fork, as this will release the juices.
6. Once the filet mignon reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful steak.
7. Serve the filet mignon on a plate and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
By following these steps, you can achieve a perfectly cooked filet mignon on the stove. Enjoy this tender and delicious steak for a special occasion or anytime you want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal.
Preparing Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is a tender and flavorful cut of beef that is often considered one of the finest steaks available. It is important to properly prepare filet mignon to ensure that it is cooked to perfection. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Choosing the Filet Mignon
When selecting filet mignon, look for steaks that are about 1 to 2 inches thick and have a nice marbling of fat throughout. This marbling adds flavor and helps to keep the meat moist during cooking.
2. Seasoning the Steak
Before cooking, season the filet mignon with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme for extra flavor. Make sure to season both sides of the steak evenly.
3. Preparing the Pan
Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add some cooking oil or butter to the pan and let it melt. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the steak.
4. Cooking the Filet Mignon
Place the filet mignon in the preheated pan and let it cook undisturbed for several minutes. This will allow a delicious crust to form on the outside. After a few minutes, flip the steak and cook for an additional few minutes on the other side.
The exact cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and how well-done you prefer it. Here is a rough guide:
- Rare: 4-5 minutes per side
- Medium-rare: 5-6 minutes per side
- Medium: 6-7 minutes per side
- Medium-well: 7-8 minutes per side
- Well-done: 8+ minutes per side
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For rare to medium-rare, the temperature should be between 120-130°F (49-54°C). For medium to well-done, the temperature should be between 130-160°F (54-71°C).
5. Letting the Steak Rest
After cooking, remove the filet mignon from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Once the filet mignon has rested, it is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it as is or with your favorite side dishes for a delicious and elegant steak dinner.
Seasoning the Filet Mignon
Before cooking the filet mignon on the stove, it is important to season the meat properly. This will enhance the flavor and add depth to the dish. Here are some steps to season your filet mignon:
1. Pat dry: Start by patting the filet mignon dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture.
2. Season with salt and pepper: Generously season both sides of the filet mignon with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The salt will help to bring out the natural flavors of the meat, while the pepper adds a subtle kick.
3. Add additional seasonings: If desired, you can add additional seasonings to the filet mignon. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, or a steak seasoning blend. Sprinkle the seasonings over the meat, ensuring an even coating.
4. Rub with olive oil: Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the filet mignon and rub it into the meat using your hands. This helps to create a flavorful crust and prevents the meat from sticking to the pan.
5. Let it rest: After seasoning the filet mignon, allow it to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and results in a more tender and juicy steak.
By properly seasoning your filet mignon, you can elevate its taste and ensure a delicious dining experience.
Heating the Skillet
Before cooking filet mignon on the stove, it is essential to properly heat the skillet. A heavy-duty skillet like a cast iron or stainless steel one is recommended for this cooking method.
First, place the skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Allow the skillet to preheat for about 5 minutes to ensure it reaches the desired temperature. Heating the skillet properly ensures that the filet mignon will develop a flavorful crust on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside.
During this preheating time, it’s important to avoid adding any oil or fat to the skillet. The dry skillet will help to create a nice sear on the filet mignon and prevent it from sticking to the pan.
Once the skillet is thoroughly preheated, it’s time to move on to the next step of cooking the filet mignon on the stove.
Searing the Filet Mignon
Searing the filet mignon is an important step to develop a delicious crust and seal in the juices. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to achieve a perfect sear:
Step 1: Preheat the Pan
Start by preheating a heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan on medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. It’s important to use a skillet that retains heat well, such as cast iron or stainless steel.
Step 2: Season the Filet Mignon
Season both sides of the filet mignon with salt and freshly ground black pepper, or any other preferred seasoning. Allow the meat to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before searing.
Step 3: Add Oil to the Pan
Once the pan is hot, add a small amount of high smoke point oil, such as vegetable, canola, or avocado oil. Swirl the oil around the pan to ensure it is evenly coated.
Step 4: Sear the Filet Mignon
Carefully place the filet mignon in the hot pan, using tongs to avoid any splattering of hot oil. Cook the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side, without moving or flipping it too frequently. This will allow a nice brown crust to form.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
After searing, you can check the doneness of the filet mignon using an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should be:
- Rare: 120-125°F (49-52°C)
- Medium Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
Remove the steak from the pan once it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Step 6: Rest the Filet Mignon
Allow the filet mignon to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help redistribute the juices and ensure a tender and juicy steak.
Now that you know how to sear filet mignon on the stove, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Enjoy your perfectly cooked filet mignon!
Q&A
What is filet mignon?
Filet mignon is a type of steak that is known for its tenderness and flavour. It comes from the tenderloin of the cow, which is a muscle that is not weight bearing, resulting in a very soft texture.
How long should I cook filet mignon on the stove?
The cooking time for filet mignon on the stove depends on how you want it cooked. For medium-rare, which is the recommended doneness, you should cook it for about 4-5 minutes on each side. However, it can vary based on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness.
Can I cook filet mignon on high heat?
Yes, you can cook filet mignon on high heat. High heat helps to create a nice sear on the outside of the steak, which adds flavor and gives it a beautiful crust. However, it’s important to keep an eye on the steak and adjust the heat if needed to prevent it from burning.
What should I season filet mignon with?
Filet mignon is a very tender cut of meat, so it doesn’t require a lot of seasoning. You can simply season it with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the steak. However, if you prefer more seasoning, you can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder for extra flavor.
What is the best way to check the doneness of filet mignon?
The best way to check the doneness of filet mignon is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 135°F (57°C). Keep in mind that the steak will continue to cook after you remove it from the heat, so you may want to take it off the stove when it’s a few degrees below your desired temperature.
How do I cook filet mignon on the stove?
To cook filet mignon on the stove, you can follow these steps: 1. Preheat a cast-iron skillet over high heat for several minutes. 2. Pat dry the filet mignon and season it with salt and pepper. 3. Add some oil or butter to the skillet and sear the filet mignon for 2-3 minutes on each side. 4. Lower the heat to medium and continue cooking the filet mignon for an additional 4-6 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. 5. Remove the filet mignon from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.