Elegant Filet Mignon with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that speaks elegance and comfort at the same time, you’ve come to the right place! This Elegant Filet Mignon with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce is one of my all-time favorites. It’s a recipe that never fails to impress, whether it’s a cozy date night at home or a special family gathering. With its rich flavor and tender steak, it feels like a luxurious treat, yet it’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

I love how this dish transforms an ordinary evening into something extraordinary. The creamy peppercorn sauce is the star here; it adds a delightful twist that makes each bite memorable. Trust me, your loved ones will be raving about this meal long after the plates are cleared!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Flavor: The creamy peppercorn sauce elevates the tender filet mignon, making every bite rich and flavorful.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this gourmet meal without hours in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this recipe fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the sauce in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will love the savory flavors of the steak paired with the creamy sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you only need simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Creamy Peppercorn Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 shallot, finely diced
• 2 teaspoons crushed black peppercorns
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cups low-sodium beef stock
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Kosher salt, to taste

For the Filet Mignon

• 4 filet mignon steaks (6 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a beef fan, try using chicken breasts or portobello mushrooms for an equally delicious experience.
• Add some greens: Serve with steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach for added color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce for an extra kick of heat!
• Try different sauces: Experiment with different sauces like a mushroom cream sauce or a red wine reduction (without alcohol) for a unique twist.

How to Make Elegant Filet Mignon with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation for your creamy peppercorn sauce. Next, add diced shallots with a pinch of salt and sauté until softened—about 1 minute. This brings out their sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Stir in garlic and crushed peppercorns, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant. This step releases those wonderful aromas that will make your kitchen feel inviting! Then whisk in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and flour. Cooking for about a minute eliminates any raw flour taste while adding depth to your sauce.

Step 3: Create Your Creamy Base

Gradually add beef stock while whisking to create a smooth consistency. Bringing this mixture to a boil before reducing it to simmer allows flavors to meld beautifully. Letting the sauce simmer uncovered for 10 minutes lets it thicken naturally. Once thickened, stir in heavy cream and let it simmer again for another 5 minutes before seasoning with salt.

Step 4: Prepare Your Steaks

While your sauce simmers away happily on one burner, allow your steaks to come to room temperature. Pat them dry and generously season with salt and pepper on all sides—this helps build that amazing crust we all love.

Step 5: Sear to Perfection

Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot—a good sear creates that beautiful golden crust! Add avocado oil and wait until shimmering before adding your steaks. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes without moving them around; this helps develop that deep golden crust.

Step 6: Baste & Rest

Hold your steaks with tongs and sear each edge for about a minute more. Lowering the heat slightly now allows you to add butter and smashed garlic into the pan—basting these steaks for 30 seconds will infuse them with incredible flavor! Finally, remove from heat and let them rest for about 7 minutes before slicing.

Step 7: Serve

The grand finale! Drizzle each steak generously with your luscious creamy peppercorn sauce before serving. Enjoy every moment as you dig into this elegant meal!

Pro Tips for Making Elegant Filet Mignon with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce

Cooking the perfect filet mignon can seem daunting, but with these expert tips, you’ll impress your guests and yourself!

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality filet mignon from a reputable butcher. The better the meat, the more tender and flavorful your dish will be.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow your steaks to rest before slicing. This helps retain juices, ensuring each bite is succulent and tender.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and shallots can make a big difference in flavor. They provide a vibrant taste that dried versions simply can’t match.
• Control Your Heat: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steaks. A hot pan creates a beautiful crust while keeping the inside juicy.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce during cooking to adjust seasoning. This ensures that your creamy peppercorn sauce is perfectly balanced and delicious.

How to Serve Elegant Filet Mignon with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce

Presenting this dish beautifully can elevate your dining experience to new heights. Here are some ideas on how to serve this elegant meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top of each steak just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A light dusting of lemon zest adds a bright note that complements the richness of the steak and sauce.
• Microgreens: For an upscale presentation, top with microgreens which not only look stunning but also add a subtle flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic provide a comforting base that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
• Sautéed Asparagus: Lightly sautéed asparagus adds a vibrant green element and crunchy texture that balances the meal beautifully.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and seasoned with salt, these sprouts develop a crispy outside while remaining tender inside—a delightful contrast.
• Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty wild rice pilaf mixed with herbs offers an earthy flavor that complements the filet mignon wonderfully without overshadowing it.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience with your Elegant Filet Mignon with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce. Enjoy every moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Elegant Filet Mignon with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce is not only a delightful dish for a special occasion but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the sauce and even the steaks ahead of time, making it easier to enjoy this luxurious meal on busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover steak and sauce in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the steak is cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Wrap steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container.
• The creamy peppercorn sauce can be frozen in an ice cube tray or a freezer-safe container.
• Both can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw steak and sauce overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For the steak, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
• The sauce can be reheated in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make the creamy peppercorn sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy peppercorn sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving.

What side dishes go well with Elegant Filet Mignon with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce?

This elegant dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.

How do I achieve the perfect sear on my filet mignon?

To get that perfect sear on your Elegant Filet Mignon with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce, make sure your skillet is very hot before adding the steaks. Don’t move them around while they sear!

Can I use other cuts of beef instead of filet mignon?

While filet mignon is ideal for its tenderness, you can use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Elegant Filet Mignon with Creamy Peppercorn Sauce becomes one of your go-to recipes for celebrating special moments or elevating a simple dinner at home. The rich flavors and tender meat are sure to impress anyone at your table. Enjoy every moment of creating this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!