Romantic Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce

Name: Romantic Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 filet mignon steaks (6 ounces each); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 shallot, minced; 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon); 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup heavy cream

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love whipping up a Romantic Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce for special occasions. The tenderness of the filet mignon combined with the rich, velvety sauce creates an unforgettable flavor experience. I often serve this dish during intimate dinners, and every single time, my guests are wowed. The way the red wine enhances the natural sweetness of the beef is something you have to experience firsthand. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a go-to for impressing without too much fuss.

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:19:09.457Z

Preparing this romantic filet mignon is always a delightful experience for me. The key to ensuring the filet is perfectly cooked is to use a meat thermometer, which I find essential for achieving that mouthwatering medium-rare. Once I sear the steaks, I take the time to let them rest while I make the sauce, allowing the juices to redistribute.

The red wine sauce is where the magic happens! I like to use a full-bodied wine, which brings out such depth in flavor. A dash of cream at the end adds a luxurious touch, and it’s a trick I learned from a cooking class that has served me well over the years.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy filet mignon cooked to perfection
Rich and velvety red wine sauce elevates the dish
Perfectly designed for date nights or anniversaries

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality filet mignon is crucial for this dish, as it directly influences the overall flavor and texture. Look for steaks that are bright red with good marbling; this will ensure tenderness and a rich taste. If you can, try to find grass-fed beef for a more robust flavor profile. It's worth investing a bit more in your meats for a special occasion like this.

For the red wine sauce, choose a wine that you would also enjoy drinking, such as a bold Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine not only adds acidity but also depth to the sauce, balancing the richness of the beef. Avoid cooking wines, as they typically contain added salt and preservatives that can alter the flavor profile.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Achieving the perfect sear is essential for developing flavor complexity. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the steaks; you should hear a satisfying sizzle upon contact. If your steaks are sticking, they likely aren't ready to flip yet. A proper sear should result in a beautiful golden crust that locks in the juices, ensuring a succulent eating experience.

After searing, don’t skip the resting phase for the steaks. Covering them with foil allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making each bite tender and juicy. The ideal resting time is around 5-10 minutes, during which you can prepare your sauce. This overlap makes your cooking process more efficient without sacrificing quality.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious filet mignon.

Ingredients

2 filet mignon steaks (6 ounces each)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 shallot, minced
1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup heavy cream

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Romantic Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce.

Prepare the Steaks

Season the filet mignon steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to allow for even cooking.

Sear the Steaks

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the steaks. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until a golden crust forms.

Cook to Desired Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; aim for 130°F for medium-rare. Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a plate and cover with foil to rest.

Make the Red Wine Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced shallot. Cook until translucent, then pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.

Finish the Sauce

Add the beef broth and fresh rosemary to the skillet. Continue to simmer until the sauce is reduced by half. Stir in the butter and cream, mixing well until the sauce is velvety smooth.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the filet mignon and arrange on plates. Drizzle with red wine sauce and serve immediately, optionally garnished with fresh rosemary.

Enjoy your romantic dinner with this exquisite dish!

Pro Tips

For a perfect steak, let it rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender bite.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to plating, simplicity is key. Slice the filet mignon against the grain to maximize tenderness. Arrange the steak on a warm plate and drizzle the red wine sauce artistically over the top. For added visual appeal, you can garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper.

Pair this dish with complementary sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or sautéed mushrooms. The richness of the red wine sauce pairs beautifully with garlicky greens or a fresh salad, creating a balanced meal that appeals to all senses.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While filet mignon is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the red wine sauce ahead of time. Simply make it as instructed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warm. This allows the flavors to meld even further, enhancing the sauce's depth on the day of serving.

If you have any leftover steak, store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it's warmed through without overcooking. Drizzle a little bit of the reheated sauce over the steak before serving to keep it moist and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can use sirloin or ribeye if you prefer, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What type of red wine is best for this sauce?

A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works best, but you can use any dry red you enjoy.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftover steak can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the steak is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat it before serving.