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 (6-8 oz each); Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 shallot, finely chopped; 1 cup red wine (preferably Cabernet Sauvignon); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I’m thrilled to share my romantic filet mignon with red wine sauce recipe. Cooking this dish feels special to me, as it perfectly combines elegance and comfort. The tender filet, paired with a rich, velvety sauce, creates a memorable dining experience that’s perfect for date nights or anniversaries. I particularly enjoy how the red wine enhances the steak's natural flavors. Each bite is an explosion of taste that brings joy to my dinner table.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:28:13.589Z

When I first tried making filet mignon with red wine sauce, I was amazed at how simple yet impressive it turned out to be. The combination of tender meat and a deep, flavorful sauce is a game changer. I learned that letting the sauce reduce intensifies its flavor, creating a luscious coating for the steak.

One detail that made a huge difference was searing the filet on high heat before finishing it in the oven. This method ensures the outside stays beautifully crispy while the inside remains meltingly tender. It’s a trick worth trying!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy tender filet mignon that melts in your mouth
Rich, aromatic sauce that complements the meat perfectly
An impressive dish that elevates any special dinner

      

Selecting the Perfect Filet Mignon

When it comes to choosing filet mignon, look for steaks with a bright red color and a good amount of marbling. The marbling is the fat interspersed within the meat, which will render down during cooking, adding flavor and tenderness. Aim for cuts that are at least 1.5 inches thick for the best results. If you can, ask your butcher for recommendations on the freshest cuts available—doing so ensures you're starting with high-quality meat.

Just before cooking, let the steaks come to room temperature, which helps them cook more evenly. This usually takes around 30 minutes. As a tip, if you marinate the filet in a mixture of olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs for a short period, you can enhance the flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the beef.

Enhancing the Red Wine Sauce

The key to a rich red wine sauce lies in the quality of the wine you choose. A good Cabernet Sauvignon not only adds depth of flavor but also works well with the fat in the steak, creating a harmonious pairing. Consider using wine that you would enjoy drinking, as its taste will ultimately influence the sauce’s outcome. If you'd prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute the red wine with grape juice or beef broth, though the sauce will differ in complexity.

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar during the reduction process. This can help balance the acidity of the wine. Always taste your sauce before serving; if it seems too acidic, a small amount of sugar can help mellow the flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious filet mignon:

Ingredients

2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 shallot, finely chopped
1 cup red wine (preferably Cabernet Sauvignon)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the Romantic Filet Mignon:

Sear the Filets

Season the filet mignon with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, creating a beautiful crust.

Finish in the Oven

Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes for medium rare. Adjust the time for desired doneness.

Make the Red Wine Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped shallots and sauté until soft. Pour in red wine and add thyme. Stir and let it reduce for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Finish the Sauce

Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the butter until melted and the sauce is shiny. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the filet mignon, generously spoon the red wine sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your romantic meal!

Pro Tips

For the best results, let the filet mignon rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it's moist and flavorful.

Ideal Pairings

To elevate your romantic dinner, pair the filet mignon with sides that complement its richness. Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted garlic potatoes offer a luxurious texture, while sautéed green beans or asparagus provide a vibrant color and crunch. A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette can also lighten your meal, adding freshness without overwhelming the main dish.

Wine pairings should stay in the same family as the sauce you prepared. A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or a full-bodied Merlot would work beautifully. Additionally, serving a decadent dessert like a molten chocolate cake or a fruit tart can round out your evening and cause heads to turn!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover filet mignon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To maintain moisture, reheat gently in the oven set at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through; avoid using the microwave, which can make the meat tough and dry. You can also enjoy leftover steak cold in salads or on sandwiches for an easy next-day meal.

The red wine sauce can also be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, whisking occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, you can thin it out with a splash of water or more wine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the red wine?

Yes, you can use chicken or beef broth if you prefer to avoid alcohol, but the flavor will be different.

→ How do I know when the filet mignon is done?

Use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C).

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad complement filet mignon wonderfully.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce before serving and simply reheat it gently while the meat is resting.