So you're craving a juicy, tender filet mignon, cooked to perfection in your oven? This guide will walk you through achieving that restaurant-quality steak at home. We'll cover everything from preparation to cooking times, ensuring your filet mignon is a culinary triumph.
Understanding Filet Mignon Cooking Times
The key to a perfectly cooked filet mignon lies in understanding the relationship between cooking time and desired doneness. Filet mignon, being naturally tender, cooks quickly. Overcooking it can result in a dry, tough steak, which is definitely something we want to avoid!
Internal Temperature Guide:
This chart provides a helpful guide to internal temperatures for different levels of doneness:
- Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C) – Cool red center
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C) – Warm red center
- Medium: 135-140°F (57-60°C) – Pink center
- Medium-Well: 140-145°F (60-63°C) – Very little pink
- Well-Done: 145°F+ (63°C+) – No pink
Important Note: Internal temperatures will continue to rise slightly after you remove the steak from the oven (carry-over cooking). It's best to remove the steak from the oven a few degrees below your target temperature.
Preparing Your Filet Mignon for Oven Cooking
Before we even think about oven time, let's prep the star of the show!
Seasoning:
A simple seasoning is best for letting the rich flavor of the filet mignon shine through. Generously season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add other spices like garlic powder or onion powder, to taste.
Searing (Optional but Recommended):
Searing the filet mignon in a hot pan before oven roasting creates a beautiful crust and locks in the juices. Heat a heavy-bottomed pan over high heat with a high-smoke-point oil (like canola or avocado oil). Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes per side until a nice brown crust forms.
Oven Cooking Instructions:
Now, for the main event! Preheat your oven to the appropriate temperature, usually around 400-450°F (200-230°C).
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Place the seasoned (and seared, if desired) filet mignon on a baking sheet.
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Roast in the preheated oven. Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of your steak and desired doneness. As a general guideline:
- 1-inch thick: 8-10 minutes for medium-rare
- 1.5-inch thick: 12-15 minutes for medium-rare
- 2-inch thick: 18-22 minutes for medium-rare
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Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This is crucial for achieving your desired level of doneness.
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Once the steak reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Tips for Filet Mignon Success
- Don't overcrowd the pan when searing. This will lower the temperature and prevent proper browning.
- Let the steak rest! This is arguably the most important step for achieving a juicy and tender result.
- Invest in a good meat thermometer. This ensures accuracy in cooking and prevents overcooking.
- Experiment with different seasonings and flavor combinations. Once you master the basic technique, feel free to get creative!
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a perfectly cooked, restaurant-quality filet mignon right in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!
