Seared Filet Mignon with Shallot Peppercorn Cream Sauce

This Filet Mignon with Shallot Peppercorn Cream Sauce is a luxurious and indulgent dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The tender filet mignon is paired with a rich and creamy sauce made from shallots, green peppercorns, and a touch of beef broth and heavy cream. The combination of flavors will elevate the simple steak to an unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

• 2 filet mignon steaks
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons green peppercorns

Directions

1. Season the filet mignon steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat.
3. Sear the steaks for about 3 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust the time for your desired doneness.
4. Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest while you prepare the sauce.
5. In the same skillet, add the chopped shallots and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and green peppercorns, and cook the sauce until it thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
8. Serve the filet mignon steaks topped with the shallot peppercorn cream sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 2

Variations

• Different Cuts of Meat: If filet mignon is unavailable, you can substitute with other steaks like ribeye or New York strip.
• Add Mushrooms: For a deeper flavor, add sliced mushrooms along with the shallots to the sauce.
• Spicy Sauce: For an extra kick, add a bit of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the green peppercorns.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added to the sauce for added aroma and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the steak and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream if needed to rehydrate the sauce.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pepper instead of green peppercorns?
   Yes, you can use black peppercorns, but the flavor will be sharper. Green peppercorns are milder and provide a different taste.
2. How do I know when the filet mignon is cooked to medium-rare?
   For medium-rare, cook the steak for about 3 minutes on each side. The internal temperature should reach 130-135°F (54-57°C).
3. Can I make the shallot peppercorn cream sauce in advance?
   Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat gently before serving.
4. What can I serve with this filet mignon?
   This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
5. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, half-and-half can be substituted for a lighter sauce, but it may not be as rich.
6. Can I grill the filet mignon instead of pan-searing?
   Absolutely! Grilling the steak will give it a smoky flavor, and you can finish the sauce in the same way.
7. What if I prefer a thicker sauce?
   If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to the sauce to thicken it.
8. Can I substitute the beef broth?
   You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as a substitute, but the flavor of the sauce will be different.
9. Is this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any wheat-based ingredients.
10. Can I prepare this dish for more than 2 servings?
    Yes, simply double the ingredients to make more servings, and adjust the cooking time as necessary.

Conclusion

This Filet Mignon with Shallot Peppercorn Cream Sauce is a decadent and flavorful meal that will impress your guests or make any dinner feel special. The rich sauce, combined with the tender steak, creates a perfect balance of savory and creamy flavors. Whether for a celebratory meal or a luxurious weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

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