Name: Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce: Gourmet at Home!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Filet Mignon (A tender cut of beef); 1 tablespoon Fennel Mustard Peppercorn Steak Rub or Coarse Salt & Cracked Black Pepper (For seasoning); 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil (For searing); 2 tablespoons Salted Butter (For rich sear); 2 tablespoons Shallots (Minced for sweetness); 2 tablespoons Green Peppercorns (Drained for balanced taste); 1/4 cup Cognac (Can substitute with brandy); 1 cup Heavy Cream (For richness); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (For tanginess); 1 teaspoon Coarse Salt (To taste)

The tantalizing aroma of seared steak fills the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy bistro in Paris, where culinary dreams come alive. This recipe for Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings the restaurant-quality indulgence right to your home kitchen. With just a few ingredients and simple techniques, you can create a gourmet meal that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a quiet evening. Not only is this dish gluten-free, but it’s also a quick triumph for even the busiest home chefs, providing a luxurious taste without the fuss. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this sumptuous recipe!

Why is Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce special?

Indulgent Experience: This recipe transforms a simple evening into a gourmet affair, making you feel like a top chef in your own kitchen.

Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of Cognac, shallots, and heavy cream creates a luxurious sauce that elevates the tender filet mignon beautifully.

Quick Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under an hour—perfect for busy nights!

Versatile Pairings: Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Gluten-Free Option: Enjoy gourmet food without worrying about gluten, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious dish that exudes sophistication while being easy to prepare!

Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Ingredients

• Here’s what you need for a gourmet experience!

For the Steak
• Filet Mignon – A tender cut of beef that provides a melt-in-your-mouth main protein.
• Fennel Mustard Peppercorn Steak Rub or Coarse Salt & Cracked Black Pepper – Enhances flavor and creates a delicious crust on the steak.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Used for searing; adds flavor and prevents sticking.
• Salted Butter – Helps achieve a rich sear while adding extra richness to the steak.

For the Sauce
• Shallots – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce, creating a complex flavor profile.
• Green Peppercorns – Delivers a mild spice to the sauce; drained for a balanced taste or adjust with steak rub if preferred.
• Cognac – Used to deglaze the pan and infuse the sauce with a bold flavor; can be substituted with brandy.
• Heavy Cream – Essential for creating a rich and creamy sauce that brings everything together.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess and depth; feel free to adjust to your taste.
• Coarse Salt – Final seasoning to intensify flavors, ensuring your dish is perfectly seasoned.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re on your way to creating a stunning Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce that will impress anyone at your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Steaks
Begin by patting your filet mignon dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Generously season both sides of the steaks with either fennel mustard peppercorn steak rub or a mixture of coarse salt and cracked black pepper. Allow the seasoned steaks to rest at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes, ensuring they cook evenly.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil along with two tablespoons of salted butter. Once the butter is sizzling and has turned frothy but not burned, carefully place the filet mignon in the skillet. Sear each steak for about 3 to 4 minutes until a rich, golden crust forms. Flip and sear the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes for medium-rare doneness. Transfer the steaks to a plate and loosely cover with foil to rest.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced shallots to the remaining juices. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, until the shallots are softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally. Next, add the drained green peppercorns to infuse the flavor, stirring briefly before deglazing the pan with 1/4 cup of Cognac. Allow it to simmer for a minute to reduce slightly, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate all the delicious browned bits.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce
Once the Cognac has reduced, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard into the skillet, mixing well. Let the sauce simmer over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop a luscious, creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with coarse salt as needed, ensuring the peppercorn sauce perfectly balances the richness of the filet mignon.

Step 5: Serve
To serve your gourmet Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce, return the rested steaks to the skillet for just a minute to warm up. Alternatively, plate each steak and generously spoon the creamy peppercorn sauce over the top. Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a delightful meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Variations & Substitutions for Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce

Embrace the joy of creativity in the kitchen by customizing this exquisite recipe to match your taste preferences!

Alcohol-Free: Replace Cognac with vegetable broth or chicken broth for a delightful non-alcoholic option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Cut of Steak: Swap filet mignon for tenderloin medallions or ribeye steaks to experience different textures while maintaining the dish’s gourmet essence. Each cut brings its unique charm.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes or more crushed green peppercorns for those who crave a spicier kick in the sauce.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free butter substitute, letting you enjoy the dish while accommodating dietary restrictions.
Herbed Variation: Infuse chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the creamy sauce to elevate its freshness and provide a garden-like essence.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pecans or walnuts into the sauce for a crunchy surprise that pairs brilliantly with the silky creaminess. They add a whole new dimension.
Restaurant-Style Finish: For an upscale touch, drizzle a high-quality balsamic reduction on the plate before serving the steak and sauce, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Richness Boost: Consider stirring in a spoonful of crème fraîche or mascarpone to the finished sauce for an even more luxurious texture and flavor. It’s decadent!

Feel free to explore these variations and find the perfect twist that speaks to your culinary heart. And, for different delights, don’t miss checking out our Monster Bark Candy or make a lovely side with Creamy Purple Potato Soup. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce is perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can season and sear the filet mignon up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it tightly wrapped to preserve freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy peppercorn sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently over low heat while you sear the steaks, allowing for a luxurious meal with minimal effort. By prepping ahead, you’ll save precious time, ensuring that your dinner is both exquisite and easy to enjoy!

What to Serve with Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce

Elevate your dining experience with perfect complements that bring out the flavors of this gourmet dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture and buttery taste enhance the richness of the filet mignon beautifully.
Roasted Asparagus: This crisp vegetable adds a touch of freshness, balancing the indulgent flavors of the creamy sauce.
Garlic Bread: Toasty and fragrant, it’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, ensuring no delicious drop goes to waste.
Crisp Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a citrus vinaigrette offers a bright contrast to the savory steak.
Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, perfectly complements the rich flavors of the steak.
Grilled Zucchini: This adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color, bringing a delightful texture that pairs wonderfully with the tender filet.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse provides a satisfying finish that doesn’t overshadow the main course.
Herb Butter: A dollop on top just before serving can add an aromatic finish that elevates the dish even more!

Expert Tips

• Resting Time: Allowing the filet mignon to rest before and after cooking is crucial for optimal tenderness and juiciness.

• Cast Iron Skillet: Using a cast iron skillet guarantees an incredible sear and even heat distribution, enhancing the overall flavor of your Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce.

• Peppercorn Choice: Opt for green peppercorns in brine for a milder flavor; dried ones can be overwhelming unless soaked beforehand.

• Searing Technique: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steak; this prevents sticking and creates a beautiful crust.

• Monitor Doneness: For perfect cooking, use an instant-read thermometer; aim for 130°F for medium-rare to avoid overcooking.

• Adjusting Thickness: If the sauce isn’t thick enough, let it simmer longer or create a cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired consistency.

How to Store and Freeze Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce

Fridge: Store any leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the tenderness of the filet mignon and the creaminess of the peppercorn sauce.

Freezer: If you want to keep your sauce longer, it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce again, gently reheat the steak in a 275°F oven to retain its juiciness. Warm the sauce separately on the stovetop until heated through.

Enjoying in Small Batches: For a quick weeknight gourmet meal, consider freezing individual portions of the sauce to pair with other proteins later on!

Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best filet mignon?
Absolutely! Look for cuts that are bright red with a good amount of marbling, as the fat will enhance flavor and tenderness. Avoid steaks that have dark spots or an odd odor. If you can, ask your butcher for USDA Choice or Prime grades for the best quality.

How should I store leftovers from this recipe?
You can store any leftovers from your Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the steak juicy, it’s best to store the steak and sauce separately.

Can I freeze the peppercorn sauce?
Very! You can freeze the creamy peppercorn sauce for up to 1 month. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as you’d like, you can simmer it longer over medium heat to reduce more liquid. Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. Allow it to simmer for another minute or two until it thickens to your liking.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! This recipe for Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce is naturally gluten-free, especially if you’re cautious about using gluten-free Worcestershire sauce or skip it entirely. Just make sure to check ingredient labels to avoid any hidden gluten sources.