Filet Steak with Red Wine Butter

Name: Filet Steak with Red Wine Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon recommended); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt, to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making filet steak with red wine butter; it never fails to impress! This dish brings together the tenderness of filet mignon and the richness of a homemade red wine butter that enhances the meat's natural flavors. The process may seem fancy, but trust me, it's quite simple and well worth the effort. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will make you feel like a gourmet chef in your own kitchen.

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:22:13.781Z

When I first tried making filet steak with red wine butter at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how easily the flavors came together. The key is to allow the red wine to reduce properly, which intensifies its flavor and pairs beautifully with the buttery richness. I usually choose a cabernet sauvignon for its boldness, and it makes a significant difference in the sauce.

One tip I found essential is to allow the steak to rest after cooking. This step ensures that the juices redistribute, making each bite mouthwatering and tender. Trust me, taking the time to make this dish will transform your dinner experience into something extraordinary!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy filet mignon cooked to perfection
Luxurious red wine butter that elevates the steak
Perfectly paired flavors that impress at any dinner table

      

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Achieving the perfect steak is all about mastering the cooking technique. For filet mignon, aim for high heat to create a beautiful crust while maintaining a tender center. Preheat your skillet until it’s nearly smoking; this ensures a good sear in the first few moments of cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 130°F for medium-rare, which typically requires around 3-4 minutes per side. Watch for juices to pool on the surface, indicating that the steak is ready to be flipped.

Basting the filet with melted butter at the end of cooking adds a rich flavor and promotes even moisture distribution. Tilt the frying pan slightly to pool the butter on one side and use a spoon to scoop the butter over the steaks continually for the last minute of cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the meat juicy. Don't rush the resting phase afterward; allowing the steaks to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, yielding a more succulent result.

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

The quality of your filet mignon is crucial to this dish. Since it’s the star, select steaks with a bright red color and plenty of marbling to guarantee tenderness and flavor. Look for USDA Prime or Choice grades for the best results. Don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper—a simple yet effective way to enhance the meat’s natural flavors. The kosher variety is preferable for seasoning, as its larger grains help to penetrate the meat without oversalting.

For the red wine butter, the wine you choose significantly impacts the final flavor. Cabernet Sauvignon adds depth and richness, but if you're looking for alternatives, a Merlot or Pinot Noir can also work well. Remember to reduce the wine until it reaches a syrupy consistency; this concentration not only intensifies the flavor but also integrates beautifully with the softened butter, transforming it into a luxurious sauce that complements the meat.

Ingredients

For the Steak

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

For the Red Wine Butter

1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon recommended)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Red Wine Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, pour the red wine and bring it to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until it has reduced by half. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, reduced wine, parsley, thyme, and salt. Mix well until smooth. Transfer to a piece of plastic wrap and shape into a log. Chill it in the refrigerator until firm, about 30 minutes.

Cook the Steaks

Season the filet mignon steaks generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat until nearly smoking. Add the steaks and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adding the butter during the last minute of cooking to baste the steaks.

Remove from the skillet and let them rest on a plate.

Serve

Slice the chilled red wine butter into rounds and place a slice on top of each steak just before serving. The heat from the steak will melt the butter, creating a delicious sauce.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different herbs for the red wine butter, such as rosemary or chives, to personalize the flavors to your liking.

Tips for Making Ahead

The red wine butter can be prepared in advance, making this dish perfect for planning ahead. Once you shape it into a log and chill it in the refrigerator, it can be stored for up to a week. You could also freeze it for up to three months; just slice off what you need and let it soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before use. This makes entertaining seamless, allowing you to focus on the cooking experience when your guests arrive.

For the steaks, consider marinating them in a simple mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for up to four hours before cooking. This not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. If you opt for this method, reduce the seasoning slightly during the actual cooking to keep the flavors balanced. Cooking them just before serving ensures they remain juicy and warm for your guests.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving filet steak with red wine butter, presentation matters. Consider sides that complement the richness of the steak, such as garlic mashed potatoes or grilled asparagus. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a delightful contrast to the hearty flavors of the steak and butter. Plating your steak with a sprinkle of fresh herbs brings an elegant touch to the table.

Feel free to elevate the experience further by adding a glass of the same red wine you used in the sauce. This not only enhances the dining experience but helps to create a cohesive flavor profile throughout the meal. Don't underestimate the power of a good finish; a drizzle of balsamic reduction over the plate can add a beautiful balance of acidity to round out the flavors nicely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! While filet mignon is tender and flavorful, you can experiment with sirloin or ribeye, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

→ How do I know when my steak is cooked to my liking?

Use an instant-read thermometer: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, and 145°F for medium.

→ Can I prepare the red wine butter ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the red wine butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.

→ What sides pair well with filet steak?

Roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple arugula salad make excellent accompaniments.