Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Creamy Pepper Sauce

Description

This elegant dish features tender filet mignon steaks, perfectly pan-seared to develop a deep brown crust, then finished with a rich, creamy pepper sauce. It’s served alongside buttery mashed potatoes and sautéed garlic greens, creating a classic steakhouse-style meal that is rich, balanced, and indulgent.

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Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the Steak

• 2 filet mignon steaks (180–200 g each)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper

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For the Creamy Pepper Sauce

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1 small shallot, finely minced

• 1 teaspoon crushed black peppercorns

• 80 ml beef stock

• 80 ml heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• Salt, to taste

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For the Mashed Potatoes

• 400 g potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 40 g unsalted butter

• 60 ml warm milk or cream

• Salt, to taste

• Chopped parsley (optional)

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For the Garlic Greens

• 1 cup kale or spinach

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender.

2. Drain well and mash until smooth.

3. Stir in butter and warm milk.

4. Season with salt and parsley. Keep warm.

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Step 2: Sear the Steaks

1. Pat steaks dry and season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over high heat.

3. Add steaks and sear for 2½–3 minutes per side for medium-rare.

4. Add butter and baste steaks for 30 seconds.

5. Remove steaks and rest for 5 minutes.

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Step 3: Make the Pepper Sauce

1. In the same pan, lower heat to medium.

2. Add butter and shallot; sauté until soft.

3. Add crushed peppercorns and toast briefly.

4. Pour in beef stock, scraping the pan.

5. Simmer until reduced by half.

6. Stir in cream and Dijon mustard.

7. Simmer gently until thickened. Season to taste.

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Step 4: Cook the Garlic Greens

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and sauté briefly.

3. Add greens and cook until just wilted.

4. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

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Plating

• Spoon mashed potatoes onto the plate.

• Place filet mignon on top or beside the potatoes.

• Drizzle generously with creamy pepper sauce.

• Add garlic greens on the side.

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Texture & Flavor Profile

• Texture: Tender steak, creamy sauce, smooth potatoes

• Flavor: Rich, savory, peppery, and buttery

• Style: Classic steakhouse / fine-dining

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)

• Ideal for date nights, celebrations, or special dinners