Filet Mignon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus is an elegant and flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy steak with creamy garlic mashed potatoes and crisp asparagus. This recipe makes for a perfect date night meal or special occasion dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Filet Mignon:
- 4 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each, about 1 ½ to 2 inches thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 4-5 garlic cloves (peeled)
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Asparagus:
- 1 lb fresh asparagus (trimmed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes and peeled garlic cloves in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes and garlic, then return them to the pot. Add the butter and mash the potatoes until smooth.
- Add Cream and Season: Stir in the heavy cream (or milk), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the mashed potatoes warm until ready to serve.
2. Roast or Sauté the Asparagus:
- Prepare the Asparagus: Toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the asparagus on a baking sheet and roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
- Sauté Method: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the asparagus and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until tender and slightly crisp.
- Optional Garnish: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
3. Cook the Filet Mignon:
- Preheat Oven: If using the oven to finish the steaks, preheat to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the Steaks: Pat the filet mignon dry with paper towels and generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Steaks: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.
- Add Butter and Garlic: Lower the heat slightly and add the butter, crushed garlic cloves, and thyme or rosemary sprigs (if using) to the pan. As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the steaks with the melted butter and garlic for extra flavor.
- Finish in the Oven: If the steaks are thick and need more cooking, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 5-7 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature should be about 130°F/54°C). Adjust cooking time for preferred doneness.
- Stovetop Method: Continue cooking the steaks in the skillet, basting with butter, until they reach the desired doneness.
- Rest the Steaks: Remove the steaks from the heat and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This ensures the juices redistribute and the steak remains tender and juicy.
4. Plate and Serve:
- Plate the Meal: Spoon a generous portion of garlic mashed potatoes onto each plate. Place the filet mignon alongside and arrange the asparagus on the side.
- Optional Garnishes: Garnish the mashed potatoes with fresh chives or parsley, and add a lemon wedge to the asparagus.
- Enjoy: Serve the meal with a nice glass of wine or your favorite beverage for an elevated dining experience!
Tips and Variations:
- Steak Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness:
- Rare: 120°F (49°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
- Medium-Well: 150°F (65°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F (71°C)
- Potato Options: For creamier mashed potatoes, use russet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold.
- Sauce Idea: A red wine reduction or garlic herb butter can be served over the steak for added richness.
This Filet Mignon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus is the perfect combination of tender steak, creamy potatoes, and crisp asparagus. The dish is simple to prepare yet feels luxurious, making it ideal for any special occasion!