Filet Mignon with Garlic Butter

Name: Filet Mignon with Garlic Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love preparing filet mignon with garlic butter; it never fails to impress! Cooking this tender cut of beef to perfection creates a deliciously juicy experience, especially when topped with a rich, buttery garlic blend. The combination of flavors transforms a simple steak dinner into a gourmet experience. It's my go-to dish for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible—there's nothing like it!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:58:13.206Z

I remember the first time I made filet mignon with garlic butter for my family; they couldn’t believe how tender and flavorful the steak turned out. The secret really lies in the resting period before and after cooking, allowing the juices to redistribute for maximum juiciness. Using high-quality meat, if you can, makes such a difference in the end result.

What I learned from many attempts is not to rush the cooking process. Searing the steak at high heat creates that beautiful crust while finishing it off with garlic butter in the oven adds a depth of flavor that’s incredible. I always use fresh garlic for the best taste!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy, tender texture that melts in your mouth
Garlic butter infusion elevates the flavors beautifully
Impressive dish that's perfect for special occasions

      

Choosing the Right Cut

Selecting quality filet mignon is crucial for this recipe. Look for steaks that have a bright red color and a good amount of marbling within the meat. The marbling helps keep the steak juicy and flavorful during cooking. It's best to purchase your filet mignon from a trusted butcher or a high-quality market where the meat has been properly handled and stored. If you're looking for a leaner option, consider a tenderloin steak, but keep in mind that it will be less rich in flavor.

Once you've chosen your filet mignon, be sure to let it reach room temperature before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout the steak, preventing the outer layer from overcooking while the center remains rare. Ideally, letting the filet sit out for about 30 minutes is sufficient for achieving a uniform doneness.

Perfecting Garlic Butter

The garlic butter that tops this filet mignon adds an indulgent touch and enhances its natural flavors. For an extra depth of flavor, consider using ghee or herb-infused butters, such as rosemary or thyme, along with the minced garlic. Cook the garlic over medium heat until it becomes fragrant and just starts to turn golden; be careful not to let it burn, as this can impart a bitter taste. Basting the steaks with this garlic butter mixture not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat moist as it cooks.

To take the flavor up a notch, you can experiment with adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of balsamic vinegar to the garlic butter for a tangy kick. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly, as these ingredients can add additional seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

While the filet mignon shines on its own, consider pairing it with sides that complement its rich flavor. Classic choices include buttery mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. These options balance the richness of the steak and provide a delightful textural contrast. You might also want to offer a red wine reduction or a creamy mushroom sauce on the side for an extra level of sophistication.

For a cozy touch, serve the filet mignon with garlic butter on a wooden cutting board, allowing each guest to slice their steak at the table. This not only makes for an appealing presentation but also invites everyone to customize their meal. Don't forget to drizzle extra garlic butter over the steak right before serving to intensify the flavor experience!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this mouthwatering filet mignon:

Ingredients

2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have everything measured and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect filet mignon with garlic butter:

Prepare the Steaks

Remove the filet mignon from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Sear the Steaks

Heat a heavy skillet over high heat until very hot. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and then the steaks. Sear for 4-5 minutes until a crust forms.

Flip and sear for another 4 minutes.

Add Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter along with the minced garlic. Baste the steaks with the melted garlic butter for about 2-3 minutes.

Finish in the Oven

Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 5-8 minutes for medium-rare, depending on your oven.

Rest and Serve

Remove the steaks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving with the garlic butter drizzled on top.

Enjoy your filet mignon with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For the best results, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare and 145°F (63°C) for medium.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store your filet mignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To retain moisture, wrap the steak in foil before placing it in the container. When reheating, avoid the microwave if possible, as it can lead to a rubbery texture. Instead, reheat in a low oven (around 250°F or 120°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps keep the meat tender and juicy.

If you've prepped the garlic butter ahead of time, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just scoop it out onto parchment paper and roll it into a log, then wrap it tightly before placing it in the freezer. You can slice off portions and add it to your dish as needed, allowing for a quick elevating flavor boost in future meals.

Scaling the Recipe

This filet mignon recipe is easily scalable whether you're cooking for a small family dinner or hosting a larger gathering. For each additional filet mignon steak, simply increase the amount of garlic butter by an extra tablespoon of butter and an additional clove of garlic per steak. This ensures even flavor distribution without compromising the integrity of the dish.

When serving a larger party, consider preparing the garlic butter in bulk first and allowing it to cool before refrigerating. This helps streamline the cooking process on the day of the event, so you can focus on getting those perfect sears on each filet while still having a delicious garlic butter ready to go.

Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue when cooking filet mignon can be overcooking, which leads to a dry steak. To avoid this, invest in an instant-read thermometer to accurately gauge doneness. For medium-rare, look for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C), remembering that the steak will continue to cook slightly while resting. Pull it out of the oven a few degrees before it reaches the desired temperature.

Another potential problem is achieving a good crust on the steak. Make sure your skillet is extremely hot before adding the steak, and avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and prevent a proper sear. Pat the steak dry with paper towels before seasoning to promote better browning, as moisture can hinder the searing process.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another cut of beef?

Yes, while filet mignon is recommended for its tenderness, you can use sirloin or ribeye as alternatives.

→ What side dishes pair well with filet mignon?

Roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad are excellent choices.

→ How can I store leftover filet mignon?

Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

→ Can I grill filet mignon instead of pan-searing?

Absolutely! Just ensure the grill is preheated and follow similar cooking times for best results.