Garlic Herb Filet Mignon

Name: Garlic Herb Filet Mignon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6-8 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes

I absolutely love preparing Garlic Herb Filet Mignon for special occasions or quiet dinners at home. The combination of tender filet mignon with garlic and fresh herbs elevates the dish to something extraordinary. I often find myself amazed at how simple yet luxurious this meal can be, and it never fails to impress my guests. With just a few ingredients and a bit of care in cooking, you can create a dish that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a true celebration of flavors and textures that I can't resist!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-22T11:10:28.712Z

When I first made Garlic Herb Filet Mignon, I wasn't sure it would come together as perfectly as I envisioned. I marinated the meat in a mix of garlic, thyme, and rosemary, which infused the steak with incredible flavor. The trick I discovered was to let the filet mignon come to room temperature before cooking; it ensures even cooking and enhances tenderness. Trust me, this makes a difference!

After searing the steaks, I finished them in the oven, which gave them that perfect medium-rare finish that made me proud. Every bite was bursting with juicy richness, paired beautifully with roasted vegetables or a side of creamy mashed potatoes. I knew I had found a new go-to dish for any culinary occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tender, juicy filet mignon infused with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or special events
Impressive presentation that’s sure to delight your dinner guests

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the filet mignon is a key step that enhances the flavor profile of the dish. The olive oil not only acts as a carrier for the garlic and herbs but also helps to tenderize the meat. By letting the steaks sit with the marinade at room temperature for 15 minutes, you allow the flavors to penetrate the meat, yielding a succulent, aromatic bite. If you're short on time, even a quick rub of the marinade just before cooking can still elevate the taste significantly.

The fresh herbs—rosemary and thyme—play a vital role in this recipe. Their earthy notes complement the richness of the filet mignon beautifully. If you don't have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs can be used as a substitute; however, you'll want to use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Be cautious and adjust according to your taste preferences.

Perfect Searing Techniques

Achieving the perfect sear on your filet mignon is crucial for developing flavor. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat until it's hot but not smoking. A cast-iron skillet is ideal due to its ability to retain heat, allowing for a beautiful, crusty exterior. Searing for 3-4 minutes on each side should give you a golden-brown color. If the steaks start to stick, give them a little more time; they will release when properly seared.

Keep in mind that the thickness of your filet mignon can affect the searing time. Steaks that are thicker than 1 inch may require an additional minute or two. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: aim for about 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. This ensures you’ll have a juicy, tender steak without overcooking.

Ingredients

For the Steak

2 filet mignon steaks (about 6-8 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Marinate the Steaks

Rub the marinade generously over both sides of the filet mignon. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Sear the Steaks

Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the steaks and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.

Finish in the Oven

Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes for medium-rare.

Rest and Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven, let the steaks rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pat of compound butter on top of the steak just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To complement the flavors of garlic and herbs, consider serving your filet mignon with a simple side of roasted vegetables or a creamy garlic mashed potato. The earthiness of roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts balances nicely with the richness of the meat. A light hollandaise or herb butter can also add an extra layer of flavor when drizzled atop the sliced steak just before serving.

For a unique twist, try pairing the filet with a red wine reduction sauce. Simply deglaze the skillet after searing with a splash of red wine, scraping any browned bits off the bottom, and simmer until slightly thickened. This adds a sophisticated finishing touch to your dish, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While this Garlic Herb Filet Mignon is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the marinade up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and when you're ready to cook, simply bring it to room temperature before applying it to the meat. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat without loss of texture, warm them gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the steak tough.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use ribeye or sirloin, but adjust cooking time as these cuts may vary in thickness.

→ What should I serve with Garlic Herb Filet Mignon?

This steak pairs wonderfully with roasted veggies, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.

→ How can I ensure the steak is cooked to my liking?

Use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).

→ Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the steak up to 24 hours in advance for more intense flavor.