How to Cook A Perfect Filet Mignon Tenderloin in 350 Degree Oven
Why in the world would anyone want to cook a steak in the oven? Because it can cook a delicious steak, that’s why! For years, we’ve used a barbeque most often for our favorite steaks. Sometimes that wasn’t an option so cooking on the stove would suffice. When I first heard about the idea of cooking steak in the oven I was horrified! Who would do that? I can honestly say that I’ve been won over. This recipe shows you how to have a perfectly seared filet mignon with the most tender meat.
What is Filet Mignon
Filet Mignon is a cut of beef on the very end of the tenderloin on the back portion of the animal. The tenderness of this cut is thought to be a result of the non weight baring position of this muscle on the animal. Tenderloin tends to be quite tender (just like it’s name) and filet mignon is the most tender of the entire tenderloin. This can be a quite spendy cut so it’s used more for special occasions.
How to Get a Good Crust
It’s important to start with a very hot pan. Using a cast iron skillet not only helps the heat distribution but it can be used in the oven as well. This makes it the best option. Make sure when starting out you’ve heated the cast iron skillet until it’s just about to start smoking. You want it hot. This assures a good crust that will stay a little crispy when baked in the oven.
Tools and Utensils
There are very few tools needed to make a good fillet mignon. Here are the simple requirements.
Spatula or metal tongs
You must have either a good spatula or metal tongs for turning the steaks. I personally like using tongs for steak because I have a little more control over the exact placing of the meat.
Cast Iron Skillet
While you can absolutely bake these steaks in a ceramic or glass dish, the cast iron is great because of it’s ability to go from stovetop to oven. It’s also a great heat conductor, which is needed for the crisp crust and tender middle.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Oven Roasted Filet Mignon
Two Fillet Mignon Steaks
These steaks are about 8 oz. a piece but if yours are a little bigger they’ll still work. Pat them to about 1-1.5 inches height in order to cook them for the correct time. Be sure to pick a good quality beef steak from the butcher for the best results.
Butter or oil for Searing the Steak
You’ll also need butter or oil for searing the meat. If using oil, choose an oil with a high smoke point such as refined coconut oil or avocado oil.
Your Favorite Spices
You can keep things simple with salt and pepper and still enjoy a delicious steak. Filet mignon is to tender and delicious, even salt and pepper will be sufficient to let it’s flavors shine. You can, however, use a steak rub or a favorite spice blend. I am using salt, pepper, garlic, paprika and summer savory (love that herb!). You could also use my favorite blend I concocted for venison steaks. It’s pretty good too!
The Filet Mignon Recipe
Turn your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Heat your Cast Iron Skillet to medium high heat and meat butter or oil in pan. Prepare your filet mignon by first making sure it’s completely thawed. Pat the steak dry and sprinkle both sides with your favorite seasoning blend, rubbing in well.
Let steaks absorb flavors for 5-10 minutes. Place steaks in hot iron pan allowing at least 1 inch around edges so they have room (no snuggling). Sear for 2 minutes, then turn over to other side and fry for 1 more minute before placing the steaks and iron pan into 350 degree F. oven.
Cook for 7-10 minutes according to how well done you like. Refer to the chart below for specific baking times.
Meat Temperature Guide
I like the visual guide for meat doneness found HERE. The times given below are your guide but know they will not work 100 percent of the time. Instead, they give you an approximate time. Feel free to check your steak for doneness. I personally like my steak medium to medium well so I cook for about 8-9 minutes in the oven.
Six Minutes – Rare
Seven Minutes – Medium Rare
Eight Minutes – Medium
Nine Minutes – Medium-Well
Ten Minutes – Well Done
Take steaks out and allow them to cool for five minutes before eating.
Favorite Sides the Go with Steak
Simple Einkorn Sourdough Bread Recipe for the Beginner
Hope you enjoy this recipe! Let me know how your dinner turns out.
From the Hilltop,
