Print

Perfect Reverse Sear Filet Mignon Recipe Easy for Date Night Dinner

reverse sear filet mignon - featured image

A foolproof reverse sear method for filet mignon that delivers a juicy, tender steak with a flavorful crust, perfect for date night or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz / 170 g each, 1.5 to 2 inches thick)
  • Sea salt (kosher salt preferred), for seasoning
  • Freshly ground black pepper, for seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for basting
  • 23 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • 2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
  2. Pat the filet mignon dry with paper towels. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper on all sides. Let the steaks rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes while the oven heats.
  3. Place the steaks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches about 115°F (46°C) for medium-rare. Use an instant-read thermometer to check.
  4. Remove the steaks from the oven and let them rest while preparing the skillet.
  5. Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat until smoking hot, about 5 minutes. Add butter, garlic cloves, and herb sprigs. Allow the butter to foam and infuse with aromatics.
  6. Place the steaks in the skillet and sear each side for 1.5 to 2 minutes, spooning the hot butter over the steaks continuously. Sear the edges as well.
  7. Check the internal temperature again: 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium.
  8. Transfer the steaks to a warm plate, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use a reliable instant-read thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Resting the steak after cooking is essential to redistribute juices. If avoiding dairy, substitute butter with avocado oil or clarified butter. For thinner steaks, reduce oven time accordingly. Avoid overcrowding the pan during searing to maintain high heat.

Nutrition

Keywords: filet mignon, reverse sear, steak recipe, date night dinner, easy steak, pan sear, cast iron skillet, juicy steak