Cook The Perfect Filet At Home In Three Easy Steps

Have you ever tried to cook a perfect filet at home?  Were you successful?  I must admit, I have probably had more fails than success.  That all changed when I did some research and got some great advice on cooking them at home.  At this point, I would much rather make my own filet at home to enjoy, at a fraction of the cost and with a better flavor!  Plus, with COVID, it might just be the best choice right now to stay home!

Step 1:  Great Quality Filet

The first step to being able to cook the perfect filet at home is getting a great quality filet.  If you know me at all, you know I am going to recommend M&M Meatlocker, my local butcher shop, if you live in Western NC.  (Full disclosure, I work there doing bookkeeping and marketing. But even though I am biased; I still think they are the BEST!)  Not all filets are created equal.  They will take the time to cut them fresh to order and I guarantee you won’t find a better filet ( or other meat, for that matter).  If you don’t live locally, I would highly recommend their online store that ships nationwide, Damn Good Steaks.  I know that you won’t be disappointed in those filets and they will be tender and juice, perfect for your meal.

Step 2:  Prepping Your Filet

Some people love a lot of seasoning on their filet.  If that is you, feel free to add what you like.  But if you are a purest, like me, all you really need is some kosher salt.  I sprinkle some kosher salt on the filets and then I place them on a wire rack on the top of a pan.  While they are  coming to room temperature, I prepare a lemon garlic butter to use.  Using a food processor, mix 1/2 stick of butter with a clove of garlic, salt, pepper and a teaspoon of lemon juice.  Once it is mixed well place it in a bowl and allow the flavor to come together.  I usually do this a day in advance, but you don’t have to do it that way.

Step 3:  Cooking Your Filet

Once the filets have come to room temperature, around 30-40 minutes, place them in an oven, preheated to 250 degrees.  I like my filet to be cooked between medium rare and medium.  So I leave it in the oven for around 20-22 minutes.  If you like it more done, just leave it in the oven a little longer.  A minute or so before it is finished in the oven, preheat a cast iron skillet on the stove at medium heat.  Remove the filets from the oven and add some of the butter to the skillet.

Immediately, place the filets in the skillet with the butter and allow to sear for 30-45 seconds on each side.  This creates the perfect crust on the steak that locks in the flavor.  Remove the filets from the pan and enjoy with your favorite sides.  Personally, I love pan fried potatoes or baked potatoes, along with a salad or fresh asparagus.

* As a side note, I am a huge fan of my Griswold cast iron skillet.  You have to buy them used because they don’t make them anymore, but it is hands down the best.  I use it all the time.  You can usually find them on eBay.

Enjoy The Perfect Filet

If you are looking for the perfect way to spend a night in, I highly recommend picking up some great quality filets. This method is simple and always turns out amazing for me.  If you are feeling really fancy, grab some fresh shrimp to sauté with the remaining butter and have a turf and surf meal.  You won’t be disappointed!  And if you are looking for an easy dessert, try this skillet apple pie.  So easy and everyone loves it!  Do you enjoy cooking at home?  Let me know your favorite meals to cook!

*This post has been updated and recirculated in February 2021.