Elegant Filet Mignon Peppercorn

A romantic dinner at home does not get more special than filet mignon with a decadent creamy peppercorn sauce Ladle the silky sauce over tender steaks and you will feel like you are dining at your favorite steakhouse

Every time I make this for date night at home my husband cannot believe I made it myself and the sauce becomes the star of the show

Ingredients

• Filet mignon steaks: Thick cut for melt in your mouth texture Choose steaks that are well trimmed bright red and at least one and a half inches thick
• Avocado oil: Good for high heat searing and helps form a crust Look for oil labeled as refined for a higher smoke point
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness to both the steak and sauce Choose high quality butter for the best flavor
• Garlic: For aromatics and bold flavor Use fresh cloves for maximum punch
• Shallot: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce Pick firm shallots that are free of blemishes
• Crushed black peppercorns: For that signature zing Use freshly cracked for the most flavor
• All purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce Opt for unbleached flour if possible
• Dijon mustard: Brings tang and complexity Choose traditional Dijon over yellow mustard for the right taste
• Worcestershire sauce: Layers in umami Make sure it is well shaken before using
• Beef stock: The main body of the sauce Pick a low sodium version to better control saltiness
• Heavy cream: Rounds out the sauce with creamy texture Choose full fat cream for best consistency
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper: For seasoning and balance Season both the steak and sauce for max flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Steaks:

Allow the steaks to sit on the counter until they reach room temperature Pat them dry thoroughly and season all over with kosher salt and cracked pepper This helps the crust develop and seasons the meat all the way through

Sear the Steaks:

Heat a cast iron skillet until very hot Drizzle in the avocado oil Once it is shimmering lay in the steaks and leave them untouched Sear for about two to three minutes per side until a deep crust forms Use tongs to stand the steaks on their sides and sear the edges for about one minute each

Baste with Butter and Garlic:

Reduce the heat Slip butter and smashed garlic into the skillet Once the butter melts tilt the pan and quickly spoon the garlicky butter over the steaks for extra flavor

Let the Steaks Rest:

Remove steaks to a plate and let them rest uncovered for about seven minutes so the juices stay inside when you slice

Start the Sauce:

Melt butter in a medium skillet and add shallots with a pinch of salt Cook over medium heat until soft about one minute Stir in minced garlic and cracked peppercorns Cook for thirty seconds to bloom their aroma

Thicken the Sauce:

Whisk in Dijon mustard Worcestershire and flour Cook for one minute to remove any raw flour taste

Build the Sauce:

Gradually whisk in beef stock until smooth Bring the sauce to a gentle boil then reduce the heat Let it simmer uncovered for ten minutes to let the flavors concentrate

Finish with Cream:

Stir in the heavy cream Simmer for five more minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking Taste and season with salt as needed

Serve and Enjoy:

Place each rested steak on a plate Spoon the warm creamy peppercorn sauce generously over the top Enjoy every bite

Pin

One of my favorite moments with this dish is how the sauce perfumes the kitchen and brings everyone to the table early Every time I make it my family hovers nearby just waiting to dive in

Storing Leftovers

Steak and sauce can be stored in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of stock to prevent the sauce from thickening too much I like to slice leftover steak for steak sandwiches the next day

Ingredient Swaps

If filet mignon is not available try beef tenderloin or sirloin which are also tender For the sauce you can substitute shallots with a small onion or use vegetable stock for a lighter version Instead of heavy cream half and half works in a pinch though the sauce will be a bit less rich

Serving Ideas

Serve this luxurious steak with roasted or mashed potatoes steamed green beans or a simple arugula salad For a special touch sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley on top of the sauce and consider a crisp glass of red wine alongside

Why This Dish Feels Special

Filet mignon has long been a celebratory dish at fancy restaurants I love recreating that luxurious feeling at home without the fuss The creamy peppercorn sauce is rooted in classic French cuisine and always makes a regular night feel like a big occasion

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you achieve a perfect sear on filet mignon?

Ensure steaks are at room temperature and thoroughly patted dry. Use a hot cast-iron skillet and avoid moving the steaks while searing for a deep golden crust.

→ What makes the peppercorn sauce creamy and flavorful?

The sauce combines sautéed shallots, butter, garlic, crushed peppercorns, and is thickened with flour, beef stock, and finished with heavy cream for added richness.

→ Can another cut be used in place of filet mignon?

While filet mignon is especially tender, other tender cuts such as beef tenderloin medallions can also be used for similar results.

→ How long should the steaks rest before serving?

After searing, let the steaks rest for about 7 minutes to lock in juices and ensure tenderness before slicing.

→ Is the peppercorn sauce spicy?

The crushed black peppercorns deliver a gentle warmth, balanced by cream and savory elements for a rounded flavor profile.

→ What side dishes pair well with this preparation?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread complement the saucy steak beautifully.