Best Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a restaurant-quality dinner that makes every bite melt in your mouth, this Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. The combination of a perfectly cooked tenderloin with a rich, creamy peppercorn sauce strikes the perfect balance of flavors that’s guaranteed to impress your guests or simply elevate a special night in. This recipe is straightforward, uses simple yet bold ingredients, and captures that luxurious steakhouse feeling right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Tenderness: Filet mignon is known for being one of the most tender cuts of beef, providing a buttery texture that’s unbeatable.
• Bold Flavor Boost: The peppercorn sauce adds a punch of spice and creaminess without overpowering the meat’s natural taste.
• Simple & Elegant: Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe is surprisingly easy, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal, this dish fits the bill wonderfully.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, it offers a fancy meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Recipe is chosen to bring out the best in the steak and sauce, combining to create a symphony of textures and tastes that are both rich and refined.

• Filet Mignon Steaks: The star of the show, these thick-cut tenderloin steaks provide a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Cracked Black Peppercorns: A crucial component that gives the sauce its characteristic spicy, aromatic kick.
• Butter: Used to sear the steaks and enrich the sauce with a silky finish.
• Heavy Cream: Adds lush creaminess to the peppercorn sauce, balancing the bold spices.
• Beef Broth or Stock: Provides depth of flavor and a savory base for the sauce.
• Shallots: Finely diced shallots impart subtle sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
• Brand or Cognac: Optional but highly recommended to deglaze the pan and add a gentle smoky richness.
• Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the meat and the sauce.
• Olive Oil: For initial searing, ensuring a crisp, caramelized crust.

Variations for Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Recipe

This Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Recipe offers plenty of room for creative tweaks, whether you want to cater to dietary needs or simply jazz it up with your favorite flavors.

• Wine-Infused Sauce: Replace the brandy with a splash of red or white wine for a nuanced, fruity twist in the sauce.
• Mushroom Peppercorn Sauce: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy, hearty addition.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a lactose-free sauce that’s still creamy.
• Herb Twist: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme in the pan while searing the steaks for herbal undertones.
• Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika in the sauce for extra heat and smokiness.

How to Make Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Steaks

Start by patting your filet mignon steaks dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks

Heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steaks and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). Remove the steaks and let rest under foil.

Step 3: Sauté the Shallots

In the same pan, lower heat to medium and add finely chopped shallots. Cook until softened and translucent, about 2 minutes. This layer boosts the sauce with delicate sweetness.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Carefully add brandy or cognac to the pan to lift all those flavorful brown bits stuck to the bottom. Let it reduce by half to concentrate the flavors, about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Create the Peppercorn Sauce

Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously. Add cracked black peppercorns (adjust amount based on your preferred spice level). Let this simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Return the rested steaks to the pan briefly, spooning the sauce over them to warm through and coat. Plate immediately, topping each filet mignon with a generous helping of the luscious peppercorn sauce.

Pro Tips for Making Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Recipe

• Don’t Skip Room Temperature: Letting the steak come to room temperature ensures more even cooking throughout.
• Use Freshly Cracked Peppercorns: They provide more aromatic punch than pre-ground pepper.
• Rest Your Steak: Allowing the steak to rest after searing locks in the juices for maximum tenderness.
• Control Sauce Consistency: Simmer sauce gently and don’t rush reduction—you want it thick enough to coat but still pourable.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook steaks one or two at a time to achieve a perfect crust without steaming.

How to Serve Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a pop of vibrant color and subtle herbaceous notes that complement the rich sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Classic pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted garlic asparagus, or a simple mixed green salad to balance the richness of the dish with fresh, crisp textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the filet mignon atop a bed of sautéed spinach or truffle-infused risotto for an elegant presentation that turns dinner into a special occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled steak and sauce in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the steak and sauce separate if you want to preserve texture best.

Freezing

While you can freeze cooked filet mignon with sauce, the texture of the steak may slightly change. For best results, freeze sauce alone and reheat steaks freshly cooked.

Reheating

Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent curdling. Reheat steak slices quickly in a hot pan or microwave on low power to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

What cut of meat is best for filet mignon?

Filet mignon is cut from the smaller end of the tenderloin and is one of the most tender cuts of beef, perfect for this recipe due to its buttery texture and mild flavor.

Can I make the peppercorn sauce without alcohol?

Yes, simply substitute the brandy with extra beef broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity, and the sauce will still be delicious.

How do I know when the filet mignon is cooked to the right doneness?

Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate method: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. The steak should feel firm but springy to the touch.

Is it necessary to crack fresh peppercorns for the sauce?

Freshly cracked peppercorns provide a more vibrant and textured flavor than pre-ground pepper, greatly enhancing the sauce’s complexity.

Can I prepare this recipe for guests with dietary restrictions?

Absolutely! The sauce can be adjusted to be dairy-free with alternative creams, and the recipe is naturally gluten-free when using corn-based or gluten-free broth.

Final Thoughts

This Filet Mignon with Peppercorn Sauce Recipe is a delicious way to bring a steakhouse favorite into your own kitchen. Its combination of tender steak and luxuriously creamy, peppery sauce will make you want to cook it again and again. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a gourmet meal, this recipe delivers mouthwatering results every time—go ahead and give it a try, your taste buds will thank you!

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