Seasoning Filet Mignon

• Seasoning filet mignon offers multiple options. Season it with dry herbs or spices before cooking it, sprinkling a little extra on after you remove it from the heat, or marinate the meat for several hours or overnight. At a minimum, season the meat with salt and black pepper to wake up and complement its natural flavor. Keeping the seasoning simple allows the mild flavor of the filet mignon to shine through. On the other hand, the mild flavor enables you to pair it with bold ingredients as well. Filet mignon pairs well with seasonings such as garlic, fresh herbs, horseradish, black pepper, balsamic vinegar, dry sherry and dry red wines.

Grilling Filet Mignon

• The grill makes quick, fuss-free work of cooking filet mignon. Season it with salt and pepper on either side, marinate it in a combination of dry red wine, fresh rosemary and olive oil, or rub the outside of the meat with a spice paste made from fresh chilies and garlic, for example. Grill the meat for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the outside is nicely browned and the inside reaches your desired internal temperature. According to the U. S. Department of Agriculture, beef should be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, although many cooks prefer cooking their filet mignon at lower temperatures such as 130 F to medium-rare or 135 for medium.

Sauteing Filet Mignon

• Cooking your steak in hot pan placed over medium-high heat allows you to create a flavorful, crusty exterior, which offers a delicious contrast to the tender interior. Choose a large, heavy-bottomed skillet. After melting butter or heating oil, add the beef to the pan and let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes per side. While the meat rests, make a pan sauce by removing most of the fat from the pan. Place it back on the heat, add aromatics such as shallots and garlic, and liquid such as red wine or vermouth. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits and add other liquids such as beef stock, soy sauce and balsamic vinegar. Simmer the mixture until it's thickened to the consistency of a syrup.

Roasting Filet Mignon

• To roast filet mignon, you must first get a good, golden sear on all sides. Preheat the oven to 400 F. While it's heating, warm a heavy-bottomed, oven-safe pan on the stove top over medium-high heat. When the meat hits a hot pan, its exterior begins developing deep, caramelized color and flavor. After browning the meat, add any other seasoning such as minced bacon, garlic, chives or Dijon mustard. Roast the beef in the oven for 7 minutes, or until the internal temperature has reaches your desired doneness.