Petite Filet Recipe
Make Petite Filet Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Steaks & Seasoning
Cooking Fats & Finish
Resting & Serving
Method
Prepare Steaks
Bring to room temperature
Remove filets from refrigerator 30–45 minutes before cooking and keep loosely covered. Bringing them to near room temperature ensures even cooking.
Pat the filets very dry on all sides with paper towel. Dry surface promotes better browning.
Season both sides and the edges of each filet evenly with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Press the seasonings gently so they adhere.
Sear & Finish
Preheat pan
Place a heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat for 3–5 minutes until very hot. Add the neutral oil and swirl to coat; it should shimmer but not smoke heavily.
Sear the filets
Carefully place the filets into the hot pan, spacing them so they are not touching. Sear without moving for 2½–3 minutes to develop a deep brown crust.
Flip and baste
Flip each filet and immediately add the unsalted butter, smashed garlic cloves, and thyme sprigs to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks continuously with the melted butter and pan juices for another 2½–3 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature 125–128°F / 52–53°C). Adjust time by ±1 minute for desired doneness (shorter for rare, longer for medium).
If thicker than 1½ inches, after searing both sides, transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F (205°C) oven for 3–5 minutes to reach desired internal temperature, then remove and continue basting briefly.
Rest & Serve
Transfer the filets to a cutting board or warm plate. Spoon some of the flavored butter from the pan over the steaks, then tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5–7 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute and carryover cooking to finish.
Taste and, if desired, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea or finishing salt on each steak. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with a lemon wedge on the side if you like a touch of brightness.