Description
This recipe guides you through cooking a perfect filet mignon in the oven using a cast iron skillet. It combines stovetop searing and oven finishing for a tender, juicy steak with a flavorful crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak
- 2 6-8 oz. filet mignon steaks (about 1.5” thick)
- 1-2 Tbsp. oil (avocado or olive)
- Salt and coarse ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Bring to room temperature: Remove the steaks from the refrigerator 30-60 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking throughout.
- Preheat oven and skillet: Place a large cast iron skillet in the oven and preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Season the steaks: While the oven heats, generously season both sides of the filets with coarse ground salt and black pepper. Drizzle a few teaspoons of oil over each steak and rub it in to coat evenly.
- Sear the steaks: Once the oven and skillet are hot, carefully remove the skillet and place it on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steaks and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to develop a crust. Flip the steaks and cook another 2 minutes on the other side.
- Finish in the oven: Transfer the skillet back into the oven. Cook for 3-4 minutes for rare (internal temp 120°F), 5-6 minutes for medium (130°F), or 7-8 minutes for medium-well (140-145°F). Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness.
- Rest the steaks: Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer steaks to a plate. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute juices before serving.
- Serve: Serve filet mignon with your choice of accompaniments like garlic herb butter, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms.
Notes
- Allowing the steak to come to room temperature helps the meat cook evenly.
- The cast iron skillet gets very hot, so handle with care to avoid burns.
- The cooking times may vary depending on steak thickness and oven accuracy, so always use a meat thermometer for best results.
- Resting the steak is crucial to retain juice and tenderness.
- Optional additions like garlic herb butter or sautéed mushrooms add extra flavor.
