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A dramatic close-up of two stacked filet mignon steaks with one cut open to display its perfectly medium-rare center. The photo captures the contrast between the seared exterior and red interior.
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Cast Iron Filet Mignon Steak

This easy recipe for perfectly seared filet mignon results in a caramelized, golden crust on the outside with a juicy, tender center. 
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 2
Calories: 167kcal
Author: Nicole Gaffney

Ingredients

  • 2 steaks filet mignon 6-8 oz each, about 2 inches thick
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly cracked coarse black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil such as avocado or grapeseed oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2-3 garlic cloves peeled and crushed with the side of a knife
  • 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
  • Flaky sea salt such as Maldon, for finishing

Instructions

  1. Remove the steaks from the refrigerator and thoroughly pay dry with paper towels.
  2. Season generously on all sides with kosher salt and pepper, pressing in gently with your fingers. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  3. Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until hot.
  4. Add the oil and swirl it around the pan to thoroughly coat.
  5. Pat the steaks to dry with paper towels one more time, then gently place them in the pan, one at a time, away from your body, making sure to leave plenty of room in between so they have room to brown.
  6. Cook, undisturbed, for about 4 minutes until a nice crust develops on the outside.
  7. Use a pair of tongs to flip each filet over and cook on the other side for another 4 minutes.
  8. Turn the heat down to low, then add the butter, garlic, and herbs.
  9. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over each steak, again and again, to infuse them with flavor, for about 1-2 minutes, depending on desired level of doneness.
  10. Remove the steaks from the pan and place them on a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm and let rest for 8-10 minutes.
  11. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 167kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 21mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 350IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 0.1mg
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