Rosemary Garlic Filet Mignon

Name: Rosemary Garlic Filet Mignon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each); 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Multinational Kitchen Ideas

I can’t help but gush over how this Rosemary Garlic Filet Mignon steals the show every time I prepare it. The combination of fresh rosemary and fragrant garlic creates an aromatic infusion that penetrates the tender filet, elevating it to gourmet status. What’s more, making this steak at home is surprisingly simple and allows me to savor a restaurant-quality meal without stepping out of my kitchen. Perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in, this dish truly satisfies a craving for comfort and elegance.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-22T11:42:27.627Z

Preparing Rosemary Garlic Filet Mignon was a delightful experience that awakened my love for simple yet refined cooking. What I found particularly rewarding was how the heat of the skillet brought out the rich flavors of the garlic and rosemary, creating a crust that locks in juices. I learned that allowing the steak to rest post-cooking is crucial; it enhances the tenderness and overall mouthfeel.

Another tip I picked up along the way is to always use high-quality ingredients. The filet mignon is a premium cut, so pairing it with fresh herbs and good olive oil makes all the difference. This dish impresses even when kept simple, and I love that it doesn’t require complicated techniques to wow guests.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic blend of fresh rosemary and garlic
Perfectly tender filet mignon cooked to your liking
Ideal for impressing guests or celebrating special moments

Marinade Magic

The marinade is the heart of this Rosemary Garlic Filet Mignon, infusing the steaks with an aromatic flavor that can't be missed. Using fresh rosemary is crucial here, as its strong piney essence gives the meat depth. Make sure to chop the rosemary finely to release its oils effectively. You can whisk the marinade for a minute or two until it becomes glossy, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully before rubbing it onto the steaks.

Letting the steaks marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature not only allows the flavors to absorb, but it also helps them cook evenly. If you have more time, you could let them marinate for up to an hour in the fridge. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before cooking; this ensures a consistent doneness and prevents the outside from cooking faster than the inside.

Cooking Technique

When cooking the filet mignon, a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, is ideal for achieving a beautiful crust. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot, but not smoking—this can take about 5 minutes. A well-heated skillet is essential: if the oil shimmers instantly when added, you’re ready to go. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can steam the meat instead of searing it; cook one or two steaks at a time depending on your skillet size.

For the desired doneness, cooking for 5-6 minutes on each side will typically yield a perfect medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer for precision: 130°F (54°C) is the sweet spot for medium-rare. If you prefer medium or medium-well, adjust the time accordingly, checking temperatures at intervals to avoid overcooking. Resting the steaks afterward for about 5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time.

Ingredients

For the Steak

2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

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

Marinate the Steaks

Rub the mixture generously over both sides of the filet mignon. Let the steaks marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature.

Preheat the Skillet

Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking.

Cook the Steaks

Add the marinated steaks to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust time for your desired doneness.

Let the Steaks Rest

Remove steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for 5 minutes before serving. This will ensure they remain juicy.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider basting the steaks with the herb-infused oil during the last few minutes of cooking.

Ingredient Insights

Using high-quality filet mignon is crucial for this recipe, as it’s the star of the dish. Look for steaks that are well-marbled with fat since this intramuscular fat enhances the flavor and tenderness during cooking. If filet mignon is not available, tenderloin can be a great substitute, though it may not have the same richness.

Olive oil is the base of the marinade, but feel free to substitute with avocado oil if you prefer a higher smoke point. The garlic should be minced freshly for the best flavor; pre-minced garlic in jars can dull the overall taste. Additionally, consider adding a touch of balsamic vinegar to the marinade for a hint of acidity, which beautifully complements the richness of the meat.

Serving Suggestions

This Rosemary Garlic Filet Mignon pairs beautifully with sides that enhance its gourmet appeal. Serve with roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, doused in olive oil and balsamic glaze. A creamy garlic mashed potato or a simple arugula salad can add freshness and balance to the meal. Don’t forget a robust red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec, which will complement the rich flavors excellently.

For a dinner party, consider slicing the steaks and presenting them on a wooden board with fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon wedges. This not only adds a rustic touch but also allows guests to serve themselves, making it a relaxed dining experience. Garnishing with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt before serving can enhance the flavors further, elevating your dish to restaurant quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Yes, but the flavor will be less intense. Use about a third of the amount as dried herbs are more potent.

→ What’s the best way to check doneness of the steak?

Using an instant-read thermometer is best. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F.

→ Can this recipe be doubled for more servings?

Absolutely! Just ensure your skillet can accommodate the additional steaks without overcrowding.

→ Can I make this recipe without garlic?

Certainly! You can skip the garlic or substitute with other herbs like thyme for a different flavor profile.