Filet Mignon Recipe (Perfect Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Garlic Butter)
Filet Mignon is widely considered the most tender steak you can buy. Cut from the beef tenderloin, this premium steak delivers a buttery texture, delicate beef flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that's perfect for special occasions.
This easy Filet Mignon Recipe creates a steakhouse-quality dinner with a beautifully seared crust, juicy center, and rich garlic herb butter.
Why You'll Love This Filet Mignon Recipe
Extremely tender steak
Restaurant-quality results
Perfect for date nights
Easy to make at home
Rich garlic butter flavor
Ready in under 20 minutes
What Is Filet Mignon?
Filet Mignon comes from the tenderloin, one of the least-used muscles on the cow.
Because this muscle does very little work, the meat remains incredibly tender.
While filet mignon has less marbling than ribeye, its buttery texture makes it one of the most sought-after steak cuts in the world.
Ingredients
For the Filet Mignon
2 filet mignon steaks (6–8 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Garlic Herb Butter
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, smashed
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 sprigs fresh thyme
Equipment Needed
Cast iron skillet
Instant-read thermometer
Tongs
Cutting board
How to Cook Filet Mignon
Step 1: Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
Remove the filet mignon from the refrigerator 30 to 45 minutes before cooking.
Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
Step 2: Season Generously
Brush lightly with olive oil.
Season all sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Place a cast iron skillet over high heat.
Allow the skillet to become extremely hot before adding the steaks.
Step 4: Sear the Filet Mignon
Place the steaks into the skillet.
Cook:
Rare
2 to 3 minutes per side
Medium Rare
3 to 4 minutes per side
Medium
4 to 5 minutes per side
Medium Well
5 to 6 minutes per side
Step 5: Add Garlic Butter
During the final minute of cooking, add butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
Tilt the pan and continuously spoon the butter over the steaks.
Step 6: Check Temperature
Use an instant-read thermometer.
Steak Temperature Guide
Rare: 120°F–125°F
Medium Rare: 130°F–135°F
Medium: 140°F–145°F
Medium Well: 150°F–155°F
Well Done: 160°F+
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Transfer the steaks to a cutting board.
Allow them to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
What Does Filet Mignon Taste Like?
Filet mignon is exceptionally tender with a mild, buttery beef flavor.
Unlike ribeye or New York strip, filet mignon isn't known for intense beefiness. Instead, it shines because of its luxurious texture and tenderness.
Filet Mignon vs Ribeye
Filet Mignon
Most tender steak
Leaner cut
Mild flavor
Buttery texture
Ribeye
More marbling
Rich beef flavor
Juicier
More fat
Many steak lovers choose filet mignon for tenderness and ribeye for flavor.
Expert Tips
Buy steaks at least 1½ inches thick.
Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Let the steak rest after cooking.
Don't overcrowd the skillet.
Use high heat for the best crust.
Common Mistakes
Overcooking
Filet mignon is best served medium rare or medium.
Skipping the Rest
Resting allows juices to stay inside the meat.
Using a Cold Pan
A hot skillet is essential for developing a steakhouse-quality crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is filet mignon so expensive?
It comes from a small section of the tenderloin and is prized for its tenderness.
What is the best temperature for filet mignon?
Medium rare (130°F–135°F) is the most popular choice.
Can I grill filet mignon?
Absolutely. Filet mignon grills beautifully.
Is filet mignon better than ribeye?
Filet mignon is more tender, while ribeye offers more flavor.
Perfect Side Dishes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Lobster Tail
Creamed Spinach
Roasted Asparagus
Caesar Salad
Truffle Mac and Cheese
More Steak Recipes You'll Love
Ribeye Steak Recipe
New York Strip Steak Recipe
How to Grill a Steak
Best Steak Marinades
Chimichurri Steak
Steak Temperatures Guide
Final Thoughts
This Filet Mignon Recipe is the ultimate steakhouse experience at home. Tender, juicy, and finished with garlic herb butter, it's an elegant meal that's surprisingly easy to prepare.