Olivia Carter
Filet mignon is a tender, juicy, and flavorful cut of beef that is often considered one of the best cuts available. Cooking this steak to perfection requires a cast iron skillet and some expert knowledge, just like Gordon Ramsay would do it. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to cook filet mignon to perfection using a cast iron skillet.
First and foremost, make sure you have a high-quality cut of filet mignon. Look for a steak that is well-marbled with fat, as this will help to enhance the flavor and juiciness. Let the steak come to room temperature before cooking, as this will ensure even cooking throughout.
Preheat your cast iron skillet over high heat. You want the pan to be smoking hot, as this will help to sear the steak and lock in all the juices. Season your filet mignon generously with salt and pepper, and then carefully place it into the hot skillet. Cook the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it develops a nice crust.
Once your filet mignon has been seared on both sides, transfer it to a preheated oven to finish cooking. Gordon Ramsay recommends cooking the steak at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-6 minutes for medium-rare. However, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness.
Remember to let your filet mignon rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a juicier and more tender final product. Serve your perfectly cooked filet mignon with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a restaurant-quality steak right at home!
How To Cook Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is a tender and flavorful cut of beef that is often considered one of the best cuts available. It is known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, buttery taste. Cooking filet mignon is a simple process that can be done to perfection using a cast iron skillet. With a few key steps, you can create a restaurant-quality filet mignon right at home.
Choosing the Right Cut
When cooking filet mignon, it’s important to start with a high-quality cut of beef. Look for filet mignon steaks that are well-marbled and have a bright red color. The marbling, or streaks of fat throughout the meat, provides flavor and helps keep the steak moist during cooking.
Preparing the Filet Mignon
Before cooking, make sure to properly season the filet mignon. Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on all sides of the steak and gently press it into the meat. This helps to enhance the natural flavors of the beef. For an extra kick, you can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder or rosemary.
Allow the seasoned filet mignon to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the meat to come to an even temperature, resulting in more even cooking.
Cooking the Filet Mignon
To begin cooking the filet mignon, preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of oil or butter to prevent sticking. Place the filet mignon in the skillet and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until a brown crust forms.
Once all sides are seared, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and continue cooking the filet mignon at 400°F (200°C) for about 6-8 minutes for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness. Remember to use an oven mitt or pot holder when handling the hot skillet.
Once the filet mignon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures a juicy and tender steak.
Serve the filet mignon with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. For an elegant touch, drizzle some homemade sauce, such as béarnaise or red wine reduction, over the steak.
Now that you know how to cook filet mignon using a cast iron skillet, you can impress your family and friends with a delicious and succulent steak right from your own kitchen. Enjoy!
Using a Cast Iron Skillet
When it comes to cooking filet mignon, using a cast iron skillet can help you achieve that perfectly seared crust and juicy interior. Here’s how to do it:
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet: Place your skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Allow it to heat up for about 5 minutes until it becomes hot. This step is crucial for creating a beautiful crust on your filet mignon.
2. Season your filet mignon: Before cooking, season your filet mignon generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor. Make sure to coat both sides of the steak evenly.
3. Add oil to the skillet: Once your skillet is hot, add a tablespoon of high-heat cooking oil, such as vegetable or canola oil. Swirl the oil around the pan to evenly coat the surface.
4. Sear the filet mignon: Carefully place the seasoned filet mignon in the hot skillet. Allow it to sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This will help develop a golden-brown crust. Use tongs to flip the steak and repeat the process on the other side.
5. Finish in the oven: If you prefer your filet mignon cooked to medium-rare or medium, transfer it to a preheated oven at around 400°F (200°C) for an additional 4-6 minutes. The internal temperature should reach about 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, or 145°F (63°C) for medium.
6. Let it rest: Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the filet mignon from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the steak even more tender and flavorful.
7. Serve and enjoy: Slice the filet mignon against the grain and serve it with your favorite side dishes. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
| Cast Iron Skillet Tips: |
|---|
| 1. Make sure your cast iron skillet is well-seasoned to prevent the steak from sticking. |
| 2. Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook the filet mignon in batches if necessary. |
| 3. If you want to add some extra flavor, you can baste the steak with melted butter and aromatics like garlic and thyme during the cooking process. |
| 4. Always use oven mitts or a handle cover when handling the hot skillet. |
| 5. Remember to clean and maintain your cast iron skillet properly to prolong its lifespan. |
Gordon Ramsay’s Recipe
Gordon Ramsay, the world-renowned chef, has a fantastic recipe for cooking filet mignon in a cast iron skillet. With his expert guidance, you can create a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 filet mignon steaks, about 2 inches thick
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the filet mignon steaks generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- In a cast iron skillet, heat olive oil over high heat until smoking hot.
- Add the filet mignon steaks to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until well-browned.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add butter, crushed garlic cloves, and thyme sprigs to the skillet. Baste the steaks with the butter mixture for about 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook the filet mignon steaks for about 5-7 minutes for medium-rare doneness or until desired level of doneness.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the steaks rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Slice the filet mignon steaks against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.
Following Gordon Ramsay’s recipe will ensure that your filet mignon is cooked to perfection. The searing in a cast iron skillet locks in the flavors, while the oven finishes the cooking process, resulting in tender and juicy steaks that will impress even the most discerning palate. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is a tender and flavorful cut of beef that can be a real treat when cooked correctly. By following a few simple tips, you can ensure that your filet mignon turns out perfectly every time.
Choose quality meat: When it comes to filet mignon, the quality of the meat is crucial. Look for cuts that are well-marbled and bright red in color. It’s best to buy from a trusted butcher who sources their meat from reputable suppliers.
Bring the meat to room temperature: Before cooking, let the filet mignon sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the meat to cook more evenly and ensures a tender result.
Season generously: Filet mignon is delicious on its own, but a generous seasoning can elevate its flavors. Sprinkle both sides of the steak with salt and pepper, and consider adding other herbs and spices like garlic powder or thyme for an extra kick.
Preheat the cast iron skillet: A cast iron skillet is ideal for cooking filet mignon as it provides even heat distribution. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes before adding the steak.
Sear for a crispy crust: To achieve a delicious crispy crust, sear the filet mignon for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This helps to lock in the juices and create a flavorful charred exterior.
Finish in the oven: After searing, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven set at 400°F (200°C) to finish cooking the steak. This allows the meat to cook more evenly and ensures a perfect medium-rare or medium doneness.
Use a meat thermometer: For the most accurate cooking result, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the filet mignon. For medium-rare, look for a temperature of 135°F (57°C), or 145°F (63°C) for medium.
Rest before serving: Allow the cooked filet mignon to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.
By following these tips, you can create a restaurant-quality filet mignon in the comfort of your own home. Remember to experiment with different seasonings and cooking times to find your perfect combination.
Recommended Side Dishes
When serving filet mignon cooked in a cast iron skillet, it’s important to choose side dishes that complement the rich and tender flavors of the meat. Here are some recommended side dishes to pair with your perfectly cooked filet mignon:
1. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
The creamy and savory flavors of roasted garlic mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to filet mignon. The smooth texture of the potatoes pairs well with the tender steak, creating a delicious combination.
2. Sautéed Mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy and umami flavor to the dish. Cook them in a bit of butter and garlic to enhance their taste. This side dish adds an extra layer of depth to your filet mignon.
3. Grilled Asparagus
The fresh and crispy texture of grilled asparagus offers a refreshing contrast to the rich and juicy filet mignon. The slight char from the grilling process adds a smoky flavor that complements the steak perfectly.
4. Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a classic and indulgent side dish that pairs well with filet mignon. The creamy texture and mild flavor balance the richness of the meat, creating a satisfying combination of flavors.
Remember, when choosing side dishes for your filet mignon, it’s important to consider flavors and textures that complement the steak. These recommended side dishes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment and discover your own perfect pairing!
FAQ
What is the best way to cook filet mignon in a cast iron skillet?
The best way to cook filet mignon in a cast iron skillet is to start by seasoning the steak with salt and pepper. Then, heat the skillet over high heat and add some oil. Once the oil is hot, place the filet mignon in the skillet and sear it for 2-3 minutes on each side. After searing, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and cook the steak for about 6-8 minutes for medium-rare doneness. Remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving.
What are Gordon Ramsay’s tips for cooking filet mignon in a cast iron skillet?
Gordon Ramsay’s tips for cooking filet mignon in a cast iron skillet include using a good quality steak, seasoning it with salt and pepper, and letting it come to room temperature before cooking. He also suggests heating the skillet over high heat to get a nice sear on the steak and using a little bit of oil to prevent sticking. It’s important to sear the steak for a few minutes on each side, then transfer it to a preheated oven to finish cooking. Ramsay recommends resting the steak for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Is it necessary to use a cast iron skillet to cook filet mignon?
No, it is not necessary to use a cast iron skillet to cook filet mignon. While a cast iron skillet is great for getting a nice sear on the steak, you can also use a stainless steel or non-stick skillet. The key is to heat the skillet over high heat, use a little bit of oil to prevent sticking, and sear the steak for a few minutes on each side. Then, you can transfer it to a preheated oven to finish cooking. The most important thing is to cook the steak to your desired doneness and let it rest before serving.
