Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Recipe
Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce is an elegant and unforgettable dish featuring a tender, juicy filet mignon paired with a creamy, richly spiced peppercorn sauce. This classic steak recipe balances bold flavors with simple ingredients, making it perfect for special occasions or an indulgent dinner at home.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Steak and Seasoning
- 2 thick filet mignon steaks (6–8 oz each)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black peppercorns, generously for seasoning and sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Peppercorn Sauce
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup brandy or cognac (or whiskey for variation)
- 1/2 cup beef stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut/cashew cream for dairy-free option)
- Pinch of salt
- Prepare the Steaks: Remove the filet mignon from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature for even cooking. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly cracked black peppercorns.
- Sear the Filet Mignon: Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steaks and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Add butter and baste steaks with melted butter to enhance flavor and juiciness.
- Finish Cooking: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes for medium-rare, or until an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) is reached. Remove and let steaks rest for 5 minutes.
- Make the Peppercorn Sauce: Lower the heat on the same skillet. Add chopped shallots and cook until translucent and fragrant. Carefully add brandy or cognac to deglaze and flambé, allowing alcohol to burn off. Stir in beef stock and cracked peppercorns, simmer until slightly thickened. Whisk in heavy cream and a pinch of salt until sauce is luscious and velvety.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate the rested filet mignon and spoon the peppercorn sauce generously over the top. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Notes
- Let steaks come to room temperature before cooking for even doneness.
- Season generously with cracked peppercorns for authentic flavor.
- Using a cast iron skillet helps retain heat and build a great crust.
- Basting with butter adds richness and prevents drying out.
- Rest steaks before serving to lock in juices.
- When flambéing, tilt the pan away from you to safely ignite the alcohol.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak with sauce
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 50 g
- Saturated Fat: 30 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
Keywords: filet mignon, peppercorn sauce, steak, creamy sauce, elegant dinner, beef recipe, restaurant quality