Filet mignon is a popular and exquisite cut of beef that is tender, juicy, and full of flavor. It is considered one of the most luxurious cuts of meat and is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to a delicious meal. While there are many ways to cook filet mignon, one of the best methods is to use the oven. This allows for even cooking and ensures that the meat stays tender and juicy.
Before you start cooking, it is important to choose high-quality filet mignon steaks. Look for steaks that are marbled with fat, as this fat will melt during cooking and add flavor and juiciness to the meat. Make sure the steaks are thick, about 1.5 to 2 inches, as this will prevent them from drying out in the oven.
To cook filet mignon steaks in the oven, start by preheating the oven to a high temperature, around 450°F (230°C). While the oven is heating, season the steaks with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or add herbs and spices like garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor.
Next, heat a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan on the stovetop over high heat. Once the pan is hot, add a tablespoon of oil and sear the steaks for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they develop a brown crust. This step helps to lock in the juices and adds a nice caramelized flavor to the steaks.
After searing, transfer the skillet or pan with the steaks to the preheated oven. Cook the steaks for about 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steaks more well-done. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for around 130-135°F (55-57°C) for medium-rare. Keep in mind that the steaks will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so it’s best to slightly undercook them to your desired level of doneness.
Once the steaks have reached the desired temperature, remove them from the oven and let them rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak. Finally, slice the filet mignon steaks against the grain and serve them with your favorite sides or sauces.
Cooking filet mignon steaks in the oven is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this premium cut of beef. With a few key steps, you can achieve restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own home. Follow these instructions, and soon you’ll be savoring a perfectly cooked filet mignon steak that’s sure to impress.
Preparation for cooking filet mignon steaks
Before cooking filet mignon steaks, it’s important to properly prepare them to ensure the best flavor and tenderness. Follow these steps to prepare your filet mignon steaks:
1. Choose high-quality filet mignon steaks: Look for steaks that have marbling throughout, as this will help keep the meat tender and juicy during cooking. Additionally, make sure the steaks are thick-cut, around 1 ½ inches thick, for optimal cooking. |
2. Season the steaks: Before cooking, season the filet mignon steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also use other seasonings, such as garlic powder or rosemary, to add extra flavor. |
3. Let the steaks come to room temperature: Take the seasoned steaks out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow for more even cooking and prevent the steaks from becoming tough. |
4. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to sear the steaks and create a delicious crust. |
5. Prepare a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier. Place a wire rack on top of the foil-lined baking sheet to elevate the steaks and allow for even cooking. |
6. Sear the steaks: In a hot skillet with some oil, sear the filet mignon steaks for about 2 minutes on each side. This will give them a nice brown crust and enhance the flavor. |
7. Transfer the steaks to the baking sheet: Once seared, transfer the filet mignon steaks to the prepared baking sheet. Place the steaks on the wire rack, leaving some space between them for even air circulation. |
8. Cook in the oven: Place the baking sheet with the steaks in the preheated oven. Cook the filet mignon steaks for about 6 to 8 minutes for medium-rare or 8 to 10 minutes for medium doneness. |
9. Allow the steaks to rest: Once cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove the steaks from the oven and let them rest on the wire rack for 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and result in more tender steaks. |
10. Serve and enjoy: After the resting period, transfer the filet mignon steaks to serving plates. Serve them as is, or with your choice of sauces or sides, and savor the deliciousness of perfectly cooked filet mignon steaks! |
Selecting the right cut and quality
When it comes to cooking filet mignon steaks in the oven, selecting the right cut and quality of meat is crucial. Filet mignon is known for its tenderness and exquisite taste, making it one of the most sought-after cuts of beef.
Look for filet mignon steaks that are well-marbled, as this will ensure that the meat remains juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process. Marbling refers to the thin streaks of fat that are dispersed evenly throughout the meat, creating a moist and tender texture.
Additionally, choose filet mignon steaks that are thick and evenly shaped. This will ensure that the steaks cook evenly and allow for a consistent internal temperature.
For the best quality, opt for USDA Prime or USDA Choice filet mignon steaks. These grades indicate that the meat has been carefully inspected and meets certain quality standards. USDA Prime is the highest quality grade and offers the most marbling and tenderness, while USDA Choice is still an excellent option with good marbling and flavor.
Remember, investing in high-quality filet mignon steaks will result in a delicious and enjoyable dining experience. Take the time to select the best cuts available to ensure the best possible outcome when cooking in the oven.
Seasoning the steaks
Seasoning is an important step to enhance the flavor of your filet mignon steaks. Here are some options for seasoning:
Salt and pepper
The simplest and most traditional way to season filet mignon steaks is with just salt and pepper. Rub both sides of the steaks generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Garlic and herb rub
If you prefer a more flavorful seasoning, you can create a garlic and herb rub to coat the steaks. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix well to form a paste, then massage the paste onto both sides of the steaks.
Marinades
Another option is to marinate the steaks to infuse them with flavor. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own using ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, garlic, and spices. Place the steaks in a resealable bag or a shallow dish, pour the marinade over them, and let them marinate in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
After seasoning the steaks, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. This will also help the steaks cook evenly.
Remember to adjust the seasoning based on your personal preferences. With the right seasoning, your filet mignon steaks will turn out delicious and flavorful every time!
Cooking Filet Mignon Steaks in the Oven
Filet mignon steaks are known for their tenderness and rich flavor. While traditionally cooked on a grill or stovetop, you can also achieve delicious results by cooking them in the oven. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to cooking filet mignon steaks in the oven.
What You’ll Need:
- Filet mignon steaks
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Meat thermometer
- Oven-safe skillet or baking dish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Take the filet mignon steaks out of the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel. This helps create a nice crust on the outside.
- Season the steaks with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, if desired. Rub them lightly with olive oil.
- Heat an oven-safe skillet or baking dish over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Add a little olive oil to the pan.
- Once the pan is hot, place the steaks in the skillet and sear them for about 2 minutes on each side. This helps seal in the juices.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook the steaks for about 5-8 minutes for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) on a meat thermometer.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the steaks rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keep the steaks tender.
- Slice the filet mignon steaks against the grain and serve them with your favorite side dishes.
Remember to adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness. Enjoy your perfectly cooked filet mignon steaks straight from the oven!
FAQ
What is filet mignon steak?
Filet mignon steak is a tender and lean cut of beef that comes from the small end of the tenderloin.
How do I cook filet mignon steaks in the oven?
To cook filet mignon steaks in the oven, start by preheating the oven to 450°F (230°C). Season the steaks with salt and pepper, and sear them in a hot skillet with oil for about two minutes on each side. Then, transfer the steaks to a baking dish and cook them in the oven for about 6-8 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if desired. Remember to let the steaks rest for a few minutes before serving.
What temperature should filet mignon be cooked to?
The recommended internal temperature for cooking filet mignon is 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, and 160°F (71°C) for well done.
What seasonings can I use to enhance the flavor of filet mignon steaks?
You can use a variety of seasonings to enhance the flavor of filet mignon steaks, such as garlic powder, dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a sprinkle of steak seasoning. It’s important to not overpower the natural flavor of the steak, so use seasonings sparingly.
Can I cook filet mignon steaks in the oven without searing them first?
While searing the steaks before cooking them in the oven helps to develop a flavorful crust, you can cook filet mignon steaks in the oven without searing them first. Simply season the steaks and place them directly in a preheated oven until they reach the desired level of doneness.