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Valentine’s Filet Mignon Dinner for Two

Valentine’s Filet Mignon Dinner for Two - featured image

A romantic, restaurant-quality filet mignon dinner for two, seared in a buttery skillet with fresh rosemary and garlic. This easy recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and is perfect for special occasions or cozy date nights at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 filet mignon steaks (68 oz each, 1.52 inches thick, USDA Prime or Choice)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 large or 2 small fresh rosemary sprigs (or thyme as a substitute)
  • 1/4 cup red wine (optional, for pan sauce)
  • Baby potatoes or asparagus (optional, for sides)
  • Finishing salt (e.g., Maldon, optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring steaks to room temperature by letting them rest on the counter for at least 20 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Season both sides of the steaks generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add a pinch of finishing salt if desired.
  3. Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add olive oil and swirl to coat.
  4. Place steaks in the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes without moving. Flip with tongs and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to medium. Add unsalted butter, smashed garlic, and rosemary to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks for 2 minutes.
  6. Continue cooking until an instant-read thermometer reads 130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium (2-4 more minutes). For thick steaks, finish in a 400°F oven for 2-3 minutes if needed.
  7. Transfer steaks to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 5 minutes.
  8. Optional: For pan sauce, remove excess fat, add red wine to the hot pan, and scrape up browned bits. Simmer for 3 minutes to reduce, then pour over steaks.
  9. While steaks rest, roast baby potatoes or steam asparagus. Toss with olive oil, salt, and rosemary.
  10. Plate steaks with sides, drizzle with pan sauce, garnish with rosemary, and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use thick-cut steaks and let them come to room temperature before cooking. Always rest the steaks after cooking to retain juices. Use a thermometer for perfect doneness. Swap rosemary for thyme or other herbs as desired. For dairy-free, use plant-based butter. Sides like roasted potatoes or asparagus pair perfectly. Avoid overcrowding the pan for a proper sear.

Nutrition

Keywords: filet mignon, steak dinner, romantic dinner, Valentine’s Day, date night, easy steak recipe, gluten-free, low carb, cast iron steak, rosemary garlic steak