Rosemary Garlic Filet Mignon

Name: Rosemary Garlic Filet Mignon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon butter

Highlighted under: Celebratory Feast Recipes

I love making Rosemary Garlic Filet Mignon for special occasions. The combination of fresh rosemary and garlic elevates the rich flavor of the tender filet. The aroma that fills my kitchen is simply irresistible, making my mouth water in anticipation! The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—just a few high-quality ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality meal. It's perfect for celebrating anniversaries or impressing guests with minimal effort!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-22T12:10:29.336Z

I remember the first time I tried making filet mignon at home; I was a bit intimidated but determined to impress my family. Using fresh rosemary and minced garlic really transformed the meat, bringing out flavors I didn't know existed. I also learned to let the steaks rest after cooking, enhancing their juiciness with every bite.

Experimenting with different cooking methods, I found that searing in a hot skillet followed by finishing in the oven creates a perfect balance of crust and tenderness. It’s a technique I now swear by, making my steak dinners unforgettable!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The aromatic blend of rosemary and garlic enhances the natural flavors of the filet.
Each bite is melt-in-your-mouth tender, perfect for any celebration.
Impress your loved ones with a gourmet meal that's surprisingly easy to make.

Mastering the Perfect Sear

Searing the filet mignon is a critical step that brings out its rich, beefy flavor. When you place the seasoned steaks in a hot skillet, listen for that satisfying sizzle. You want to achieve a golden-brown crust, which usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side. If the steak sticks to the skillet, it’s not yet ready to flip; this is a sign that it’s developing that all-important crust.

To get that perfect sear, it's vital to use a heavy-bottomed skillet, such as cast iron or stainless steel. These materials retain heat well, helping to create a nice Maillard reaction on the surface. Ensure your oil is shimmering before adding the steaks, which means it's hot enough for a great sear.

Oven Finishing for Consistency

Finishing the filet mignon in the oven allows for even cooking throughout the steak. After searing, transferring your skillet directly into a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) helps maintain the desired doneness without overcooking the exterior. Depending on your preferred level of doneness, consider baking for 5-10 minutes; a meat thermometer can help here, with 135°F for medium-rare.

One common mistake is relying solely on visual cues when determining doneness; investing in an instant-read thermometer can save you from overcooked, tough steak. For those preferring a tailored experience, let your steaks rest for a few minutes afterward to redistribute the juices, which makes each bite succulent.

Ingredients

4 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

Prep the Steaks

Season the filet mignon steaks generously with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic and chopped rosemary with the olive oil to create a marinade. Rub the mixture onto both sides of each steak.

Sear the Steaks

Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms.

Finish in the Oven

Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired doneness.

Rest and Serve

Remove the steaks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Add a pat of butter on top of each steak before serving for extra richness.

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, experiment by adding a splash of red wine to the skillet after searing the steaks.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of fresh rosemary and garlic significantly elevates this dish. Rosemary brings an earthy flavor that balances the richness of the filet, while garlic provides aromatic depth. For those who may not have fresh herbs on hand, dried rosemary can be used but reduce the amount to about one teaspoon, as it's more concentrated.

Quality of ingredients plays a pivotal role in the final taste. Opt for grass-fed filet mignon when possible, as it tends to have more buttery flavor and tenderness. If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the marinade for additional complexity.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, pair the Rosemary Garlic Filet Mignon with sides that complement its richness. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter asparagus offer a lovely contrast. Consider drizzling a simple pan sauce made from the drippings over the steak for an elegant touch.

If you’re looking to impress further, finish the dish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dollop of herb-infused compound butter. This extra touch can elevate your gourmet meal, adding both flavor and visual appeal that will surely wow your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ How can I tell if the steak is cooked to my liking?

Use a meat thermometer: 120°F (49°C) for rare, 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, and 140°F (60°C) for medium.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the marinated steaks can be prepared ahead, they're best cooked fresh for optimal flavor and tenderness.

→ What sides go well with filet mignon?

Pair it with mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a fresh green salad to round out your meal.

→ Is filet mignon the same as tenderloin?

Yes, filet mignon comes from the tenderloin section of the beef, known for its tenderness and flavor.