Romantic Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce

Name: Romantic Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon recommended); 1 cup beef broth; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When it comes to special occasions, I always turn to my Romantic Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce. This dish never fails to impress, combining tender, juicy beef with a rich, velvety sauce that elevates the meal to something truly memorable. I love how the flavors meld together, creating a dining experience that feels luxurious yet can be made right at home. Whether it's an anniversary or a cozy date night, this recipe is my go-to for celebrating love and good times. It’s simpler than you might think, and the results are absolutely divine!

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:25:12.441Z

Preparing this Romantic Filet Mignon was an exciting new adventure for me. I decided to pair it with a homemade red wine sauce, which adds a layer of depth and richness to the dish. The secret lies in letting the wine reduce to concentrate the flavors, and I found that using a bold Cabernet Sauvignon resulted in a remarkable finish. The smell wafting through my kitchen was intoxicating!

What I love most about this dish is how customizable it is. You can adjust the seasoning or add herbs to the sauce to reflect your personal taste. I once added a hint of rosemary, and it was a delightful twist. It’s all about creating a plate that feels uniquely yours while impressing anyone who shares it with you.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender filet mignon seared to perfection
Rich and aromatic red wine sauce
A foolproof method for a restaurant-quality meal at home

      

Mastering the Perfect Sear

Achieving the perfect sear on your filet mignon is crucial for maximizing flavor and texture. Start by preheating your skillet to medium-high heat; it should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles when it hits the surface. Use high-quality olive oil with a high smoke point to avoid burning. Place the steaks in the skillet without crowding, which allows for better heat distribution and prevents steaming. You’ll know it's time to flip when the edges are golden brown and you can see a nice crust forming.

When you flip the steaks, add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. This allows the garlic to infuse the butter and the meat as it cooks. Basting the filet mignon with the melted garlic butter in the final minute of cooking gives it a rich flavor and prevents it from drying out. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F to 135°F. Use a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part for accuracy.

Perfecting the Red Wine Sauce

The red wine sauce is a key component of this dish, enhancing the rich flavors of the filet mignon. Choosing a Cabernet Sauvignon provides depth; however, any robust red wine would work in a pinch. Remember to allow the wine to simmer long enough to reduce, concentrating its flavor and burning off the alcohol. Visual cues include a slight syrupy sheen on the surface once reduced by half.

Incorporating fresh herbs like thyme not only adds aroma but also complements the beef broth's richness. The addition of Dijon mustard introduces a subtle tang that balances the sauce's overall flavor, making it less heavy. If you prefer a thicker sauce, the cornstarch method works well; mix it with cold water first to prevent clumping and stir it in gradually, watching for the desired thickness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a fantastic romantic dinner.

Ingredients for Filet Mignon

2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced

Ingredients for Red Wine Sauce

1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon recommended)
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before cooking for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create a memorable dinner.

Prepare the Steak

Season the filet mignon with salt and pepper on both sides. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the steaks in the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness. Add butter and minced garlic in the last minute of cooking for extra flavor.

Rest the Steaks

Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate, loosely covered with aluminum foil, for about 5 minutes.

Make the Red Wine Sauce

In the same skillet, add the red wine, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it reduces by half. Then add the beef broth, Dijon mustard, and thyme, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for another 10 minutes. If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir for thickening.

Serve

Slice the filet mignon, plate it, and drizzle with the delicious red wine sauce. Enjoy your meal with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes!

For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh herbs before serving.

Pro Tips

Let the steaks come to room temperature before cooking for an even cook. Also, don't skip the resting time
it allows the juices to redistribute, making the steaks juicier!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving the filet mignon with sides that complement its elegance. Roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or carrots add color and nutrition, while creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting balance. For a touch of luxury, top the potatoes with a dollop of horseradish cream or garlic-infused oil.

A simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak and sauce. For drinks, a glass of the same red wine used in the sauce would pair beautifully, amplifying the meal's flavors and enhancing the overall experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to save time on special occasions, you can prepare the red wine sauce ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days before serving. Just reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to improve consistency. This allows for quick assembly on the day of your celebration without sacrificing flavor.

However, it's best to cook the filet mignon fresh, as reheating can lead to a loss of tenderness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for one to two days. To reheat, use a low oven (around 250°F) until warmed through without overcooking. Enjoying filet mignon the next day is wonderful, especially in a salad or sandwich!

Questions About Recipes

→ What is the best way to cook filet mignon?

Searing it in a hot skillet for a short time is ideal for filet mignon to achieve that perfect crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

→ Can I use a different wine for the sauce?

Absolutely! A Merlot or even a Pinot Noir could work well, but always choose a wine that you would drink.

→ How can I tell if my filet mignon is cooked to medium-rare?

A 130-135°F internal temperature is ideal for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer for best accuracy.

→ What side dishes pair well with filet mignon?

Classic options include garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed asparagus, or a fresh mixed green salad.