Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Red Wine and Balsamic Sauce

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 415° F. Remove steak from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking, this is to bring the steak to room temperature and ensure your cooking times are more accurate. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Combine all balsamic and red wine sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Whisk and set aside.

Step 2

Add the 2 tablespoons of butter to an oven safe cast iron skillet and turn up high, allow the skillet to become very hot first. Once the butter melts, place the filets face down and sear undisturbed for 2 minutes. Flip the filets and sear for an additional 2 minutes. This will give your filets a nice seared edge.

Step 3

Transfer your skillet directly to the oven. [WARNING] skillet may be hot, handle with oven mitts. For rare, bake for 4 minutes. Medium rare, 5-6 minutes. Medium, 6-7 minutes. Medium well, 8-9 minutes. Remember, depending on the thickness/size of the steak, the more or less time it may take. This recipe is ideal for a 6-8 ounce portion, roughly 2-3 inches thick. Remove filets from the skillet and set on a plate, lightly tent with tin foil and set aside.

Step 4

Return the hot skillet to a burner on medium-high heat. Add the balsamic and red wine sauce to the skillet and mix with the butter drippings. Simmer, whisking occasionally until mixture reduces by half and slightly thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Immediately serve each filet topped with 3-4 tablespoons of balsamic and red wine sauce. Top with minced parsley or rosemary if desired.