
Chef's Tip
For perfect doneness, always let the steaks rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy steak.
Instructions
- Remove steaks from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature.
- Pat steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Heat oil in a large cast-iron skillet over high heat until just smoking.
- Add steaks to pan without crowding. Sear until well-browned, about 3 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, thyme, and garlic to pan. Tilt pan and spoon butter over steaks continuously for 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer steaks to a cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- For béarnaise sauce: Reduce vinegar, wine, shallots, and tarragon to 1 tablespoon of liquid. Strain into a bowl over simmering water.
- Whisk egg yolks into reduction until thick and pale. Slowly drizzle in warm clarified butter while whisking. Season with salt and remaining tarragon.
- For mushroom sauce: In the same pan used for steaks, sauté mushrooms until browned. Add cognac, stock, and cream. Reduce until thickened.
- Serve steaks with choice of béarnaise or mushroom sauce.
Plating
Place each filet mignon in the center of a warmed plate. For béarnaise option, spoon sauce over or beside the steak. For mushroom sauce, ladle over the top of the steak. Garnish with a small sprig of fresh thyme or parsley.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cooked steak can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For best results, enjoy cold or at room temperature in sandwiches or salads. Reheat gently in a 275°F oven just until warmed through to avoid overcooking. Sauces should be stored separately and used within 2 days.
About This Recipe
A timeless offering at Anthony's Pier 4, this filet mignon provides a premium beef option at a seafood-focused restaurant. The preparation emphasizes the quality of the meat with minimal seasoning and precise cooking. Offering both classic béarnaise and rich mushroom sauce options allows diners to customize this elegant main course to their preference.