Filet Steak with Red Wine Butter
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I can't express how delightful it is to sink my teeth into a perfectly cooked filet steak with a luscious red wine butter sauce. This dish is a celebration of rich flavors and tender textures, all coming together in a symphony of taste. The secret lies in using high-quality beef, a bold red wine, and creating a compound butter that elevates the entire dish. It's a showstopper for any occasion, and trust me, once you make it, you'll be craving it again and again.
When I first attempted to prepare filet steak with red wine butter, I was amazed by how well the robust flavors complemented each other. I wanted to achieve that perfect crust on the steak while keeping the inside tender and juicy. After experimenting with different cooking methods, I found that a hot cast-iron skillet followed by a quick finishing in the oven delivers the best results. The precise timing is crucial, so be sure to keep an eye on your steak!
Creating the red wine butter was a revelation for me. The complexity it adds to the dish is unparalleled. I like to simmer the wine down until it’s almost concentrated, which enhances its flavor before blending it with butter. Make sure to chill it before serving; the cold butter melting over the warm steak is truly something special. Pair it with a glass of the same wine for a complete experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Mouthwatering, tender steak cooked to perfection
- Decadent red wine butter that enhances every bite
- Impressive enough for special occasions yet easy to master
Understanding Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is prized for its tenderness, coming from the tenderloin area of the beef. This cut of meat is inherently lean, meaning it benefits from careful cooking to preserve juiciness. Searing the filet in a hot skillet creates a savory crust, sealing in moisture. To avoid overcooking, keep an eye on the color and internal temperature; a beautiful medium-rare filet should reach about 135°F (57°C).
Selecting the right filet mignon is crucial; look for steaks that are bright red with marbling throughout, as the fat renders during cooking, enhancing both flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a more economical option, consider using sirloin or ribeye, but remember that they will yield a different texture and flavor profile.
The Magic of Compound Butter
Compound butters, like the red wine butter in this recipe, can elevate your dish with minimum effort. Using a high-quality red wine not only enriches the flavor but also adds a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the steak. Choose a wine you enjoy drinking; it will transform the butter into a flavorful sauce. For a different twist, experiment with herbs such as rosemary or parsley instead of thyme.
The process of making compound butter involves not just mixing but also timing. After cooking the wine down, letting it cool before incorporating it into the butter is vital; this prevents the butter from melting. Shape the butter into a log, which allows for easy slicing and ensures even distribution over the steak.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
When serving filet steak, consider pairing it with sides that complement the richness of the dish. Roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or sautéed green beans add texture and color to your plate. If you want a fresh touch, a simple arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly.
This recipe can be easily customized by adding ingredients to the compound butter. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If time allows, marinate your steak beforehand with herbs and olive oil to infuse additional flavor before cooking.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to achieve a flavorful and sumptuous dish.
Ingredients for Filet Steak
- 2 filet mignon steaks, about 6-8 ounces each
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Ingredients for Red Wine Butter
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for a seamless cooking experience.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Prepare the Red Wine Butter
In a saucepan, combine the red wine and garlic, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the wine is reduced by half. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly, then mix in the softened butter and thyme.
Cook the Steaks
Season the filet mignon generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Sear the steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side until a crust forms.
Finish Cooking in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Serve
Remove the steaks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Slice the red wine butter and place it on top of each steak just before serving.
Enjoy your delicious filet steak paired with decadent red wine butter!
Pro Tips
- Rest your steak after cooking to lock in juices and enhance the flavor.
Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect sear, ensure your skillet is preheated before adding the steak. A hot pan will create a caramelized crust, essential for flavor. If you're hesitant about using high heat, remember that sizzling noise when the steak hits the pan indicates it's ready! If you notice too much smoke, lower the heat slightly to avoid burning.
Resting the steaks post-cooking is a crucial step often overlooked. Letting the meat sit for at least 5 minutes redistributes the juices, leading to a more succulent steak. You can cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm without trapping steam, which can make the exterior soggy.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, cool the steaks completely before storing. Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or cling wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider vacuum-sealing the steaks, which can extend their life up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to reheat, use low heat in the oven to prevent drying out.
To reintroduce flavor after reheating, melt a slice of red wine butter on top just before serving. This not only revitalizes the dish but also adds moisture. For reheating in a skillet, keep the heat low and cover, allowing the steak to warm through without cooking further.
Making Ahead
You can prepare the red wine butter a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and develop. Simply wrap the log in parchment paper and store it in the fridge. This simple step streamlines the cooking process on the day you plan to serve your filet steak, letting you focus on getting the perfect sear.
If you're hosting a dinner party, consider pre-seasoning your steaks and bringing them to room temperature before cooking. This allows for more even cooking throughout. Just a little planning ahead can alleviate the stress of last-minute cooking and set you up for success.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, have fun experimenting! Ribeye or New York strip can be delicious alternatives.
→ What should I serve with filet steak?
Mashed potatoes, sautéed asparagus, or a fresh salad all pair beautifully.
→ How do I ensure my steak is cooked perfectly?
Using a meat thermometer is best. Aim for 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare.
→ Can I make the red wine butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
Filet Steak with Red Wine Butter
I can't express how delightful it is to sink my teeth into a perfectly cooked filet steak with a luscious red wine butter sauce. This dish is a celebration of rich flavors and tender textures, all coming together in a symphony of taste. The secret lies in using high-quality beef, a bold red wine, and creating a compound butter that elevates the entire dish. It's a showstopper for any occasion, and trust me, once you make it, you'll be craving it again and again.
Created by: Kayla Monroe
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Filet Steak
- 2 filet mignon steaks, about 6-8 ounces each
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Ingredients for Red Wine Butter
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 clove garlic, minced
How-To Steps
In a saucepan, combine the red wine and garlic, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the wine is reduced by half. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly, then mix in the softened butter and thyme. Shape the mixture into a log using parchment paper and refrigerate until firm.
Season the filet mignon generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Sear the steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side until a crust forms. Add butter during the last minute, basting the steaks for enhanced flavor.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Remove the steaks from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Slice the red wine butter and place it on top of each steak just before serving.
Extra Tips
- Rest your steak after cooking to lock in juices and enhance the flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Total Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 7g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 56g