The first time I tried sous vide cooking, I felt a mix of both excitement and apprehension as I stood at my kitchen counter, preparing to create the perfect steak. Enter the Sous Vide Filet Mignon: an artful blend of precision and simplicity that guarantees an exceptionally juicy cut every time. With this failproof recipe, you’ll achieve a delightful medium-rare that compliments your taste and leaves friends and family in awe. The sous vide method not only locks in moisture but also prevents the dreaded overcooking, making it ideal for both seasoned chefs and enthusiastic newcomers. Plus, you can prepare it in advance, ensuring a stress-free culinary experience. Ready to elevate your steak game and make unforgettable meals with ease? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this sous vide filet mignon special?

Failproof Cooking: The sous vide method ensures your steak is consistently cooked to your desired doneness, offering a hassle-free approach for any home chef.
Juicy Texture: Expect a juicy, tender filet mignon that melts in your mouth, thanks to the controlled cooking environment.
Enhanced Flavor: A quick sear in butter and olive oil creates a delicious crust that amplifies the steak’s natural flavors.
Flexibility: Customize it with herbs like thyme or garlic for a unique twist, or switch up the seasoning to match your palate.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this recipe guarantees rave reviews from your loved ones! Transform your cooking with this failproof sous vide filet mignon recipe!

Sous Vide Filet Mignon Ingredients

For the Steak
• Filet Mignons – The star of the dish, offering a tender texture that’s second to none. Substitute with ribeye or sirloin for a different flavor profile.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing the steak’s natural flavors. Sea salt can be used in its place for a similar effect.
• Fresh Ground Pepper – Adds a touch of warmth and spice; always go for fresh for the best taste.

For the Searing
• Butter – Infuses richness and contributes to the flavorful crust; ghee is a great option for a lactose-free version.
• Olive Oil – Perfect for searing to prevent sticking and impart extra flavor; canola or avocado oil works as alternatives.

Elevate your culinary skills with this sous vide filet mignon recipe that promises a perfectly cooked steak every time!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sous Vide Filet Mignon

Step 1: Preheat the Sous Vide Machine
Begin by filling your sous vide container with water and setting the sous vide machine to 132°F for a perfect medium-rare filet mignon. Allow the water to heat up while you prepare the steaks, ensuring precise temperature control throughout the cooking process for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Filet Mignons
Take your filet mignons and season both sides generously with kosher salt and fresh ground pepper. This enhances the natural flavors of the steak. Next, place each seasoned filet in a ziplock bag, making sure to use the water displacement method to remove air, allowing the steaks to cook evenly in the sous vide.

Step 3: Cook the Steaks
Submerge the sealed bags with filet mignons into the preheated water bath, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cook for a minimum of 1 hour, but for deeper flavor, you can let them sit for up to 4 hours. Keep an eye on the water level, adding more if necessary to maintain the cooking range throughout the sous vide process.

Step 4: Dry the Steaks
Once the sous vide cooking time is completed, carefully remove the bags from the water. Open the bags and take out the steaks, placing them on a clean plate. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear later on, which allows the crust to form perfectly when cooking.

Step 5: Season and Prepare for Searing
After drying, season the steaks again with a sprinkle of kosher salt and fresh ground pepper. This second layer of seasoning will add extra flavor to your sous vide filet mignon, ensuring this amazing dish turns out deliciously savory after searing.

Step 6: Preheat the Skillet
Place a cast iron skillet on high heat and allow it to warm up for about 5 minutes until blazing hot. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and a pat of butter to the skillet; the combination will create a rich, flavorful base for searing your steaks and impart an irresistible crust.

Step 7: Sear the Filets
Carefully add the filet mignons to the hot skillet, searing each side for about 1 minute. As they cook, spoon the melted butter over the steaks, enhancing the flavor and caramelizing the outside for a crispy, golden crust.

Step 8: Serve Immediately
Once nicely browned, remove the steaks from the skillet and transfer them to a cutting board. Let them rest for just a moment, then slice and serve your incredible sous vide filet mignon. Enjoy the succulent, perfectly cooked steak alongside your favorite sides for a truly memorable meal!

Expert Tips for Sous Vide Filet Mignon

• Temperature Matters: Always check the temperature of your sous vide; even a few degrees can affect the doneness of your filet mignon.

• Don’t Rush Searing: Allow your skillet to heat thoroughly before adding the steak. A hot pan ensures a beautiful crust without overcooking the interior.

• Watch the Time: Cooking your filet mignon for less than 1 hour may yield a chewy texture; stick to the recommended time for best results.

• Season Smartly: While seasoning is essential, avoid excessive salt during the sous vide process to prevent overpowering the steak’s natural flavor.

• Rest Before Serving: Let your steak rest briefly after searing to allow juices to redistribute, enhancing the overall tenderness of your sous vide filet mignon.

Storage Tips for Sous Vide Filet Mignon

Fridge: Store any leftover sous vide filet mignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain its tenderness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sous vide filet mignon in vacuum-sealed bags or well-wrapped in foil for up to 3 months. This prevents freezer burn and maintains flavor.

Reheating: To reheat, simply place the frozen steak back in the sous vide bath at the original cooking temperature for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, ensuring the meat retains its juicy texture.

Searing: After reheating, sear the filet mignon in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side to achieve that delicious crust you love.

Sous Vide Filet Mignon Variations

Let your creativity shine by exploring these fun and flavorful twists on your sous vide filet mignon!

Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the vacuum bag for a fragrant finish that elevates your steak. The aroma will dance in your kitchen, enticing everyone nearby!
Garlic Lovers: Toss in crushed garlic cloves for a savory touch that complements the beef beautifully. Garlic’s aromatic essence seeps into the meat, creating a delightful flavor explosion.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the seasoning for a surprising heat that warms the palate. It’s perfect for those who crave a little thrill in every bite!
Citrus Zest: Include a sprinkle of lemon or orange zest in the bag before sealing for a bright, refreshing flavor contrast. This light addition will brighten the richness of the filet!
Different Cuts: Switch up the steak by using ribeye or sirloin to experience new flavors and textures while keeping the sous vide method intact. Each cut will offer a unique taste journey!
Elevated Marinade: Marinate the filet mignon in soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or balsamic vinegar beforehand. The marinade deepens the flavor and adds a delicious complexity that’s hard to resist.
Blue Cheese Crust: Top your steak with crumbled blue cheese right after searing for an indulgent, creamy layer that melts into every succulent slice. It’s a decadent finish that impresses every guest!
Tomato Tapenade: Serve with a homemade tapenade on the side, providing a Mediterranean touch with a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich steak. Each bite will give you a culinary vacation to the coast!

Explore these variations and find out which one becomes a favorite at your table! For even more inspiration, check out this delightful recipe for Roasted Garlic Herb Butter, which can pair beautifully with your steak, or discover how to whip up a vibrant Garden Salad that offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich sous vide filet mignon!

Make Ahead Options

These sous vide filet mignon steaks are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and seal the filet mignons in ziplock bags up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor. When you’re ready to cook, simply immerse the bags in the preheated water bath and follow the same cooking instructions, ensuring you maintain the water level during the process. After cooking, they can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days before searing. Just remember to pat them dry and re-season before searing for that delicious crust. With this prep-ahead option, you’ll savor restaurant-quality results on busy weeknights with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Sous Vide Filet Mignon

Create an unforgettable dining experience by choosing sides that beautifully complement the rich flavors of your steak.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture paired with buttery goodness enhances the richness of the filet mignon. A classic comfort food that never disappoints.
Garlic Roasted Asparagus: These crisp, tender spears bring a delightful crunch and a hint of earthiness to your plate. A fresh element that balances the richness of the meat beautifully.
Herb-Infused Rice Pilaf: Light and fragrant, this fluffy side helps soak up the savory juices from your steak, adding a lovely complement to each bite.
Classic Caesar Salad: With its crisp romaine and creamy dressing, this salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, tender steak, making each mouthful more exciting.
Sautéed Mushrooms: Their umami flavor adds depth to the meal, harmonizing with the steak’s flavor while bringing in inviting earthy notes.
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The sweetness from the glaze contrasts with the savory steak, creating a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that both excite and satisfy.
Full-Bodied Red Wine: A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the experience by matching the steak’s bold flavors and offering a luxurious finish to your meal.
Chocolate Fondant: For dessert, a rich chocolate fondant provides a sweet, indulgent end to your meal, leaving a delightful memory of your culinary triumph.

Elevate your dinner table and create lasting memories with these perfect accompaniments to your sous vide filet mignon!

Sous Vide Filet Mignon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best filet mignon?
When selecting filet mignon, look for cuts that are bright red with a fine texture and a bit of marbling. Avoid steaks with dark spots or discoloration as these may indicate spoilage. Freshness is key for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness!

How should I store leftover sous vide filet mignon?
Store any leftover sous vide filet mignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure that it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain its tenderness. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

What are the freezing instructions for sous vide filet mignon?
To freeze sous vide filet mignon, wrap it tightly in vacuum-sealed bags or foil, eliminating as much air as possible. Label with the date, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the sous vide bath at the original cooking temperature for about 45 minutes.

Can I adjust the cooking time for sous vide filet mignon?
Absolutely! While 1 to 4 hours is the recommended cooking range, going beyond 4 hours can lead to a mushy texture. If time is short, sticking to 1 hour will still yield a nice steak, but I often find that letting it cook longer deepens the flavor without compromising texture.

Is sous vide cooking safe for pets?
Yes! Sous vide filet mignon can be shared with pets in moderation, but make sure no seasonings or ingredients they cannot have (like onions or garlic) are included. Always check with your vet if uncertain about specific ingredients.

What should I do if my sous vide filet mignon is chewy?
If your filet mignon turns out chewy, it may not have been cooked long enough in the sous vide. Ensure to cook it for at least 1 hour—longer for deeper flavor and tender texture. Also, make sure your sous vide machine maintains a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process for ideal results.