Description
Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Cream Sauce – Luxurious & Easy
Tender filet mignon with a silky, bold peppercorn cream sauce. Perfect for date nights, celebrations, or any “treat yourself” evening.
Ingredients
For the Steaks:
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2 filet mignon steaks (~6 oz each)
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Salt & freshly cracked black pepper
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Peppercorn Cream Sauce:
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1 tbsp butter
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1 small shallot, finely minced (or 2 tbsp minced onion)
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1–2 tsp crushed black peppercorns
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¼ cup beef or chicken broth
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½ cup heavy cream
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1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, adds depth and emulsifies)
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1 tbsp butter (to finish, monter au beurre)
Optional Garnishes:
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Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Steaks
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Remove steaks from fridge 30 min before cooking to reach room temp.
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Pat completely dry. Generously season all sides with salt and cracked black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
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Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron or stainless) over medium-high heat.
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Add olive oil and butter. Once melted and foaming, add steaks.
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Sear undisturbed 3–4 min per side for medium-rare (~125°F internal). Adjust for your preferred doneness.
Step 3: Rest the Steaks
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Transfer steaks to a plate, tent with foil, and rest 8–10 min to redistribute juices.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
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Lower skillet to medium heat. Add 1 tbsp butter and minced shallot; sauté 2–3 min until fragrant.
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Add crushed peppercorns; toast 30 sec.
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Deglaze with broth, scraping up browned bits. Simmer 1 min.
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Add heavy cream and Dijon mustard; simmer 3–4 min until slightly thickened.
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Off heat, swirl in 1 tbsp butter for glossy, silky texture. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Step 5: Serve
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Spoon sauce over the rested steaks. Optionally, return steaks briefly to the pan to warm through.
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Plate simply: mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or green beans are perfect companions.
Notes
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Too thin? Simmer longer to reduce.
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Make ahead: Sauce can be prepared 2 days in advance; reheat gently and finish with butter.
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No thermometer? Use the finger test: soft = rare, slightly firm = medium-rare, firm = well-done.
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Mellow pepper: Lightly toast peppercorns or mix with milder pink peppercorns.
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Twists: Add cognac/brandy, mushrooms, fresh thyme/rosemary, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.