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: Serves 2
Ingredients: 2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each); Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; 1 cup of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon recommended); 1 shallot, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Romantic Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce for special occasions, it's one of my favorite ways to impress a loved one. The rich flavors and tender, juicy steak create a memorable dining experience that feels luxurious yet achievable at home. Using high-quality ingredients like fresh herbs and a good bottle of red wine elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. It's perfect for anniversaries or intimate dinners where you want to show your affection and culinary skills. Trust me, your loved ones will be raving about this meal for days!

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:46:25.347Z

This dish holds a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I cooked filet mignon; the anticipation of that first slice was exhilarating. The key is searing the steak to develop a perfect crust, locking in all those flavorful juices. Pairing it with a homemade red wine sauce takes it to another level.

While experimenting with different wine blends, I discovered that a robust Cabernet Sauvignon harmonizes beautifully with the richness of the beef. A touch of fresh rosemary brings everything together, creating an aromatic finish that lingers in your senses. It’s a dish that truly captures the essence of romance.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender and juicy steak that melts in your mouth
Decadent red wine sauce that elevates the dish
Perfectly complements a romantic dinner setting

      

Selecting the Perfect Filet Mignon

Choosing the right filet mignon is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Look for steaks that are bright red with even marbling throughout—this fat will render during cooking, keeping the meat juicy. I recommend opting for certified Angus beef or a quality cut from your local butcher for the best results. If you prefer a leaner option, avoid filet mignon that appears excessively fattened, as it may lead to a dry end result.

When preparing your filet mignon, let it come to room temperature before cooking for at least 15 minutes. This helps it cook evenly, preventing the outside from overcooking while the inside remains raw. Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure accuracy; for medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130-135°F. This not only guarantees perfect doneness but also prevents the frustration of cutting into an overcooked steak.

Creating a Luxurious Red Wine Sauce

The red wine sauce is what transforms this dish into a gourmet experience. Select a high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon, as its rich flavors will enhance the sauce beautifully. As you cook the shallots, be sure to stir frequently to avoid burning them; they should turn translucent and fragrant. Deglazing the skillet with red wine not only adds depth but helps lift those flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan, which are crucial for a robust sauce.

While simmering the sauce, allow it to reduce until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This will concentrate the flavors and give the sauce a glossy finish. If you're short on time, consider making the sauce ahead of time and reheating it gently before serving. Just be sure to reintroduce a splash of wine to help refresh the flavors, ensuring you maintain that luxurious taste profile.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create an unforgettable meal:

For the Steak

2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 sprigs fresh rosemary

For the Red Wine Sauce

1 cup of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon recommended)
1 shallot, finely chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt to taste

Ensure everything is prepped and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked filet mignon:

Prepare the Steaks

Season the filet mignon steaks generously with salt and black pepper. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.

Sear the Steaks

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the steaks. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Add rosemary sprigs in the last minute for aroma.

Rest the Steaks

Once cooked to your preference, transfer the steaks to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let them rest for 5-10 minutes.

Make the Red Wine Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the shallot. Cook until translucent, then pour in the red wine. Scrape the bottom to release any browned bits and simmer until reduced by half.

Finish the Sauce

Stir in the butter and thyme, season with salt. Let it thicken slightly before serving.

Serve

Slice the filet mignon and serve drizzled with the red wine sauce. Enjoy your romantic dinner!

Pair this delicious dish with your favorite side for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, marinate the steaks in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Romantic Filet Mignon, consider pairing it with simple yet elegant sides. Creamy garlic mashed potatoes or sautéed asparagus complement the richness of the steak beautifully. A fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a light contrast, refreshing the palate between big bites of steak.

Don't forget about the presentation; a neatly arranged plate can elevate your meal further. Drizzle the red wine sauce artfully around the steak, and top it with a few sprigs of fresh thyme for a pop of color. Setting the table with soft lighting and beautiful dinnerware will enhance the dining atmosphere, making the experience even more romantic.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover steak or sauce, store them separately to maintain the steak's texture. Wrap the filet mignon tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container, where it will last up to three days in the refrigerator. For reheating, aim for gentle methods like using an oven set to 250°F, which will warm it through without drying it out.

The red wine sauce can also be refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, use a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, whisk in a splash of water or additional wine to regain its velvety consistency. This makes for a quick, gourmet meal in the days that follow your romantic dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I cook the filet mignon in the oven?

Yes, after searing, you can transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes to finish cooking.

→ What should I serve with filet mignon?

Mashed potatoes, asparagus, or a fresh salad complement this dish beautifully.

→ Can I use a different wine for the sauce?

Absolutely! A Merlot or Pinot Noir would also work well and provide a different nuance in flavor.

→ How do I know when the steak is done?

A meat thermometer should read 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. For other levels, aim for 145°F (63°C) for medium or 160°F (71°C) for medium-well.