How to Cook a Perfect Filet Mignon in a Cast Iron Skillet, the Gordon Ramsay Way
“The key to a great steak is a good sear and a juicy interior. With a cast iron skillet, you can achieve both of those things easily.” – Gordon Ramsay
Cooking the Perfect Filet Mignon
A filet mignon is a luxurious cut of beef that is known for its tenderness and flavor. It is typically cooked to a medium-rare or medium-well doneness. When cooked in a cast iron skillet, the filet mignon is seared to perfection and the interior remains juicy and tender.
How to Cook a Filet Mignon in a Cast Iron Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 filet mignon steak, about 1 pound
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Season the steak with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice crust has formed.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and place it on a wire rack.
- Roast the steak in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Cooking a Perfect Filet Mignon in a Cast Iron Skillet
- Use a high-quality steak. The better the steak, the better the end result will be.
- Preheat the skillet until it is very hot. This will help to create a good sear on the steak.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If you are cooking more than one steak, cook them in batches.
- Cook the steak to your desired doneness. The internal temperature of the steak should be 125 degrees F (52 degrees C) for medium-rare, 135 degrees F (57 degrees C) for medium, and 145 degrees F (63 degrees C) for medium-well.
- Let the steak rest before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
How to Sear a Steak in a Cast Iron Skillet
Searing a steak is the process of cooking the steak over high heat to create a crispy crust. This crust will help to lock in the juices and flavor of the steak.
To sear a steak in a cast iron skillet:
- Preheat the skillet over high heat.
- Add the steak to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a nice crust has formed.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and continue cooking according to your desired doneness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Filet Mignon in a Cast Iron Skillet
Q: What is the best way to season a filet mignon?
A: The best way to season a filet mignon is with salt and pepper. You can also add other herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or thyme.
Q: How long should I cook a filet mignon in a cast iron skillet?
A: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired doneness. For a 1-inch thick steak, cook for 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, 3-4 minutes per side for medium, and 4-5 minutes per side for medium-well.
Q: How can I tell if my filet mignon is done?
A: The best way to tell if your filet mignon is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak and cook until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness.
Conclusion
Cooking a filet mignon in a cast iron skillet is a great way to achieve a perfect steak. By following these tips, you can cook a steak that is tender, juicy, and flavorful. Enjoy!
Are you interested in learning more about cooking filet mignon?