How to Cook a Filet Mignon: The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Steaks Every Time 

There’s something special about a perfectly cooked filet mignon—it’s tender, juicy, and a true indulgence. Whether you're a seasoned chef or new to cooking steaks, learning how to cook a filet mignon to perfection is an essential skill for any home cook. At Snake River Farms, we offer American Wagyu filet mignon, renowned for its buttery texture and marbling that melts in your mouth. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cooking filet mignon, from selecting the right cut to mastering the perfect cooking techniques. Let’s dive in!

What Makes Filet Mignon So Special?

Filet mignon, also known as tenderloin steak, is prized for its extreme tenderness and mild flavor. Unlike other cuts, filet mignon has a lean, fine texture that melts in your mouth. When sourced from American Wagyu, the quality is unparalleled. The marbling in Wagyu beef gives it a rich, buttery flavor that makes every bite a luxurious experience.

Want to learn more about our premium filet mignon cuts? Check out our Find Your Perfect Filet Mignon.

How to Cook Filet Mignon: 5 Foolproof Methods 

1. Steakhouse Method: The Classic Oven and Skillet Combination

This method is perfect for achieving a beautiful sear with a tender, juicy interior.

Step 1: Season
Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add a light coat of vegetable oil to the skillet. Season steaks with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear
Place steaks in hot skillet and sear for 4 minutes, turning once. If a steak sticks to the skillet, it’s not ready to turn. Wait until it releases on its own.

Step 3: Cook
Place skillet in a 350°F degree oven for 10 to 20 minutes depending on desired doneness. Turn once halfway through the cooking time. Remove from oven when preferred internal temperature is reached. See chart below for suggested temperatures.

Step 4: Rest
Remove steaks from a skillet and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let stand 5 to 10 minutes. The steaks will continue to cook and the temperature will rise about 5 degrees.

For the perfect steak, follow the Steak Temperature Guide to ensure you reach your desired doneness. 


 

2. Searing: The Simple Skillet Method 

If you prefer cooking on the stove, searing is an excellent method for achieving a delicious crust.

Step 1: Season
Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium heat until hot. Add a light coat of vegetable oil to the skillet. Season top side of tenderloin steaks with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear
Place filet mignon steaks, seasoned side down, in skillet and sear 4 to 5 minutes until nicely browned. Season the top side of the steak with salt and pepper. If the steak sticks to the skillet, it’s not ready to turn. Wait until it releases on its own.

Step 3: Flip and Cook
Turn steaks over and allow to cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. After 2 to 3 minutes, use a thermometer to test the thickest part of the steak. When the temperature reaches the desired level, remove from the skillet. See chart below for temperature guidelines. Remove steaks from a skillet and serve.

Step 4: Rest
Remove steaks from a skillet and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let stand 5 to 10 minutes. The steaks will continue to cook and the temperature will rise about 5 degrees.

For the perfect sear, use a quality cast iron skillet like the Smithey No. 12 Cast Iron Skillet to achieve even heat distribution and a beautifully caramelized crust.

3. Reverse Sear: The Low and Slow Approach 

The reverse sear method ensures the most even cooking and is ideal for thicker cuts.

Step 1: Season
Heat oven to 275°F degrees. Season tenderloin steak with salt and pepper. Cover a baking sheet with foil and place a metal rack in the middle. The idea is to elevate the steak from the pan.

Step 2: Cook in the Oven
Place the pan, grill and filet mignon in the oven. Bake until the steak reaches the temperature that matches your preference. See the chart for exact temperatures. For medium-rare, cook until 120°F degrees. This can take up to 60 minutes, but begin checking the internal temperature at 30 minutes. See chart below for temperature guidelines.

Step 3: Rest
Remove steak from oven, loosely cover with foil and allow to rest for 10 to 15 minutes. 

Step 4: Sear
Add a light coating of vegetable oil to a heavy skillet and heat over high heat until hot. Sear filet mignon on each side for 60 to 90 seconds to form a beautiful crust. Serve.

For a deeper dive into this foolproof technique, check out our guide to The Reverse Sear Method and master the art of low-and-slow perfection.

4. Grilling: A Classic Outdoor Favorite

Grilling filet mignon is perfect for those who enjoy a smoky flavor and crispy sear.

Step 1: Season
Turn on grill to medium heat. Season grill with a light coat of vegetable oil. Season steaks with salt and pepper or your favorite rub.

Step 2: Sear
Place steak on hot grill, close lid and allow to cook for 2 minutes. Lift steak off the grill, turn 45 degrees and place back on the grill. Allow to cook 2 more minutes.

Step 3: Flip
Turn steak over and cook for 2 minutes. Lift steak off the grill, turn 45 degrees and place back on the grill. Allow to cook for 2 more minutes. For medium-rare, the total cook time is 8 minutes. Check the temperature of the thickest part of the steak to determine when it is done to your preference. See chart below for temperature guidelines.

Step 4: Rest
Remove steaks from the skillet and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let stand 5 minutes. The steaks continue to cook the temperature will rise about 5 degrees. Finish with a pinch of flaked salt. Serve.

For a deeper understanding of how different grilling methods impact flavor, check out our guide on Flavor Difference: Gas, Charcoal, or Wood Pellet Grilling and choose the best technique for cooking filet mignon to perfection.

5. Sous Vide: Precision Cooking for Perfection  

If you're a perfectionist, sous vide is the method for you. 

Step 1: Heat Water
Place your immersion circulator in a container with water and set the temperature. See the chart below to determine the best temperature to achieve the result you desire. See the chart to determine the best temperature to achieve the result you desire.

Step 2: Season
Use a generous amount of salt and pepper on both sides of the steak.

Step 3: Package & Seal
Use a vacuum sealer to seal the steak in a bag. You can also use a self-sealing plastic bag by placing the bag in a container of water, being careful to keep the lid above the waterline. The water pressure will displace the air as the steak drops deeper into the water. Seal the bag when all or most of the air has been pushed out of the bag.

Step 4: Cook
Place the sealed bag into the water. We recommend cooking your steak a minimum of one hour and no longer than two hours.

Step 5: Heat Skillet
Add a light coat of vegetable oil to a heavy skillet. Place on a burner set to medium-high heat.

Step 6: Sear
Remove the steak from the sealed bag. Pat the steak dry and place in the hot pan. Cook about 1 to 2 minutes per side to create a brown, crisp crust. Steaks cooked sous vide do not require resting so you can serve immediately.

For a complete guide to mastering this precise cooking technique, check out our article on What is Sous Vide Cooking? and learn how to achieve perfectly cooked filet mignon every time.

Steak Temperature Guide: Achieving Your Desired Doneness

Here are the magic numbers you’ll need to determine when your Filet Mignon is cooked to the degree of doneness you most prefer. The internal temp is when the filet mignon should be removed from the heat. The steak will continue to cook, so the temperature will rise during the rest period.

Are you a visual learner? See our short video “Cooking Steak to the Perfect Temp and Doneness".

Frequently Asked Questions about Filet Mignon

Cutting Your Own Filet Mignon: A Budget-Friendly Option

Did you know you can enjoy premium filet mignon at a lower cost by cutting your own steaks from a whole tenderloin roast? This method allows you to control portion sizes and maximize value without sacrificing quality. How to Cut a Tenderloin Roast into Steaks:

1. Trim the Roast – Remove excess fat and silverskin for a clean, even cut.
2. Portion the Steaks – Slice the tenderloin into even medallions, typically 1.5 to 2 inches thick.
3. Shape & Tie (Optional) – If needed, use butcher’s twine to ensure uniform cooking.

For a step-by-step guide, read our full article: Filet Mignon on a Budget: How to Cut a Tenderloin Roast into Steaks.

Prefer a visual walkthrough? Watch our video tutorial on how to expertly butcher a whole tenderloin into steaks.

Want to Cook the Perfect Filet Mignon at Home? Shop Snake River Farms Today!

Ready to take your steak game to the next level? Our American Wagyu filet mignon is the perfect choice for a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Shop now and enjoy steaks that redefine fine dining. Shop Filet Mignon Now.