Introduction to Butter-Basted Filet Mignon
When it comes to gourmet cooking at home, few dishes rival the elegance and flavor of a butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary. This recipe is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a delightful way to impress guests or enjoy a special meal after a long week. Imagine cutting into a perfectly seared steak, its juices mingling with the rich, buttery essence and the aromatic notes of fresh rosemary. It’s an experience that transforms a simple dinner into an occasion.
The Magic of Butter Basting
Butter basting is a technique that elevates the flavor and tenderness of steak. By continuously spooning melted butter over the filet mignon as it cooks, you infuse the meat with a glorious richness that enhances its natural taste. The addition of garlic and rosemary in the basting process not only complements the filet but also adds depth to each bite. Have you ever wondered how a simple technique can yield such luxurious results? It’s all about the quality of ingredients and the care taken during cooking.
Why Filet Mignon?
Filet mignon, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture, is one of the most sought-after cuts of beef. Its tenderness makes it ideal for quick cooking methods like searing, which is perfect for busy young professionals who love gourmet food but have limited time. This recipe respects the integrity of the filet while showcasing its flavor through simple, high-quality ingredients. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend indulgence, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
In just 20 minutes, you can create an exquisite meal that rivals what you’d find at a high-end steakhouse. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary? Your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients
When crafting a butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary, the quality of your ingredients is crucial for achieving a luxurious flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at the key components that make this dish shine.
Filet Mignon (2 steaks)
The star of the dish, filet mignon, is renowned for its exceptional tenderness. This cut of beef is lean yet rich, making it ideal for quick cooking methods like searing. Its buttery texture melts in your mouth, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons)
Unsalted butter is used to baste the steak, adding a rich, creamy flavor that enhances the filet’s natural juices. As it melts, it transforms into a golden elixir, infusing the meat with moisture and depth.
Fresh Rosemary (2 sprigs)
Fresh rosemary adds a fragrant, earthy aroma that complements the richness of the beef. Its distinct flavor profile elevates the dish, making each bite more aromatic and enjoyable.
Garlic (2 cloves, crushed)
Crushed garlic brings a savory depth to the basting mixture. It caramelizes slightly as it cooks, adding a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the rosemary and butter.
Using these key ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home that is not only satisfying but also impressively simple to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When you’re short on time but crave a gourmet experience at home, this butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary is the perfect solution. It combines simplicity with sophistication, allowing even busy young professionals to indulge in a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. The buttery richness of the filet, paired with the aromatic rosemary and garlic, creates an unforgettable flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the standout features of this recipe is its quick preparation time. In just 20 minutes, you can transform a few quality ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that feels like a special occasion. This makes it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining. Plus, the straightforward cooking method ensures that even novice cooks can feel confident in their abilities.
A Crowd-Pleaser
This dish is not only delicious; it’s also visually stunning. The vibrant green rosemary and the golden-brown sear on the filet make for an impressive presentation. Whether you’re serving it to friends or family, it’s bound to be a hit. Experience the joy of sharing a sumptuous meal that showcases your culinary skills while keeping it simple and stress-free.
In short, this recipe is a delightful blend of flavor, ease, and presentation that you’ll love to prepare and share.
Variations
When it comes to crafting the perfect butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few delicious variations that will keep this recipe exciting each time you make it.
Herb Infusions
You can easily switch up the herbs used in this recipe to create new flavor profiles. For instance, consider using thyme or tarragon instead of rosemary. These herbs bring their own unique characteristics, with thyme offering a slightly sweet, earthy taste and tarragon adding a hint of anise. Adding a mix of your favorite herbs can elevate the dish to new heights.
Different Cuts of Meat
While filet mignon is a luxurious choice, you can adapt this recipe using other cuts of beef. Ribeye or sirloin steaks work wonderfully with the butter-basting technique, providing a different texture and flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the thickness and fat content of the cut you choose.
Sauces and Toppings
To add an extra layer of flavor, consider serving your filet mignon with a sauce. A red wine reduction or a creamy peppercorn sauce can complement the richness of the butter-basted steak beautifully. Alternatively, topping the steak with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions can introduce delightful textures and flavors.
These variations ensure that your butter-basted filet mignon remains a staple in your culinary repertoire, offering new experiences every time you cook.
Cooking Tips and Notes
Cooking the perfect butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary requires attention to detail and a few handy tips to elevate your dish. Here are some essential notes to ensure your steak turns out wonderfully every time.
Use a Meat Thermometer
To achieve your desired level of doneness, using a meat thermometer is highly recommended. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). This ensures that the steak remains juicy and tender, making each bite a delight.
Let It Rest
After cooking, allow the steaks to rest for about five minutes. This step is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, preventing them from spilling out when you cut into the steak. As a result, you’ll enjoy a more flavorful and succulent filet mignon.
Experiment with Marinades
For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the filet mignon for a few hours before cooking. A simple garlic and herb marinade can infuse the meat with additional flavor, making your dish even more impressive. Just be sure to pat the steak dry before searing to achieve that perfect crust.
These cooking tips will help ensure that your butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary not only tastes amazing but also impresses anyone you serve it to. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Pairing your butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary is as important as the cooking process itself. The right sides and accompaniments can elevate your meal to a new level of indulgence.
Ideal Side Dishes
Consider serving your succulent filet mignon with classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes or roasted garlic potatoes. These starchy companions absorb the rich flavors of the steak and complement its buttery texture. For a lighter option, sautéed asparagus or green beans add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
Sauces and Condiments
A decadent sauce can enhance the overall experience of your dish. A red wine reduction or a rich mushroom sauce pairs beautifully with filet mignon, adding depth and complexity. Alternatively, a dollop of herbed compound butter on top of the steak can provide an extra layer of flavor that melts into the meat.
Wine Pairing
To complete your dining experience, consider a full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a rich Merlot. These wines complement the robust flavors of the steak and create a harmonious balance with the meal.
With these serving suggestions, your butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on the table.
Time Breakdown
Understanding the time it takes to prepare and cook your butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary is essential for a smooth cooking experience. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Preparation
10 minutes
Get your ingredients ready and season the steaks with salt and pepper.
Cooking
10 minutes
Sear the steaks to perfection, basting them with garlic and rosemary butter.
Total
20 minutes
In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a gourmet meal that is both satisfying and impressive.
For efficiency, have all your ingredients prepped before starting to cook, ensuring a seamless process!
Nutritional Facts
Understanding the nutritional profile of your butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary can help you enjoy this luxurious dish while being mindful of your dietary needs. Each serving contains approximately 500 calories, making it a satisfying yet indulgent option.
Breakdown of Key Nutrients
In addition to its rich flavor, this recipe packs a punch with 46 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The dish also includes 36 grams of fat, with 15 grams being saturated fat. While it is low in carbohydrates and sugar, it does contain about 500 milligrams of sodium, which is important to consider for those monitoring their salt intake. This meal is also high in cholesterol, coming in at 120 milligrams per serving.
Enjoy this gourmet steak with the confidence that it provides quality nutrition, perfect for a special occasion or a delightful weeknight dinner.
FAQ based on “People Also Ask” section
Understanding common questions can enhance your cooking experience with butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary. Here are some frequently asked questions along with their answers.
How do I know when filet mignon is done?
To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). Always remember to let it rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary?
Absolutely! While rosemary adds a distinct flavor, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or tarragon for a different taste profile. Each herb will bring its unique aroma and flavor, enhancing your steak experience.
What sides pair well with filet mignon?
Filet mignon pairs beautifully with sides such as roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. These options complement the richness of the steak and create a well-rounded meal.
These FAQs provide helpful insights for cooking and serving your delicious filet mignon!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the butter-basted filet mignon with rosemary is a celebration of flavor and simplicity, perfect for young professionals and homemade-food lovers alike. This dish not only highlights the tender, juicy nature of filet mignon but also showcases the rich infusion of butter and aromatic rosemary that enhances its natural taste.
By following the straightforward steps outlined in this recipe, you can create a gourmet meal in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether serving it to friends or enjoying it as a personal treat, this filet mignon is sure to impress.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with sides and sauces to make this dish your own. Cook, save, or share this recipe with others, and enjoy the delightful experience of crafting a luxurious steak dinner at home!
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Butter-Basted Filet Mignon with Rosemary
A luxurious steak dish featuring tender filet mignon, infused with the rich flavors of butter and fresh rosemary.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 filet mignon steaks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the filet mignon with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the steaks and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side or until desired doneness.
- Add the remaining butter, garlic, and rosemary to the skillet.
- As the butter melts, baste the steaks for about 2 minutes.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, let the steaks marinate in garlic and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
- Serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Carnivore
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 46g
- Cholesterol: 120mg