Filet Au Poivre

Prep: 20 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: French

A classic filet au poivre features a tender beef filet crusted with crushed black peppercorns, offering bold flavors and a luxurious texture perfect for special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. beef filet, trimmed
  • 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 Tbsp. crushed black peppercorns

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
  2. Make slits with a paring knife on all sides of the filet.
  3. Insert garlic slices into the slits.
  4. Rub the filet with olive oil and press crushed black pepper onto the surface.
  5. Place the filet on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.
  6. Roast in the preheated 450°F oven for 15 minutes.
  7. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F.
  8. Roast for another 35 minutes or until a thermometer registers 130°F for rare or 140°F for medium.
  9. Let the beef stand for 10 minutes before slicing.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more intense flavor, marinate the beef filet in olive oil, crushed black pepper, and garlic for a few hours or overnight. If you don't have black peppercorns, you can use pre-ground black pepper, though the texture will differ. For a milder taste, consider using white pepper. Always let the meat come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the filet au poivre with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a delightful contrast. A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette can also brighten the dish. This beef dish pairs beautifully with Carrots A La Flamande, enhancing your meal's overall flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover filet au poivre can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a preheated oven at 300°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwave reheating, as it can make the meat tough.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Filet Au Poivre contains roughly 1271 calories, with 31g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (61% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1856mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).

1271 kcal 64% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 30.7g 61% DV
Total Fat 64.5g 83% DV
Carbs 142g 52% DV
Fiber 8.5g 30% DV
Sugar 12.6g 25% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1855.7mg 81% DV
Potassium 381mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 6.5mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 44.4mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.7mcg 3% DV
Calcium 93.6mg 7% DV
Iron 10.6mg 59% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to ensure my filet is cooked to the right doneness?

Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check doneness. For rare, aim for 130°F; for medium, 140°F. Remember to let the meat rest for 10 minutes after cooking, as it will continue to cook slightly and juices will redistribute.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

While beef filet is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness, you can substitute a tenderloin or ribeye. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the cut, as they may require more or less time in the oven.

What should I do if I don't have a roasting pan?

If you lack a roasting pan, a baking sheet with a wire rack works well to elevate the meat and allow for even cooking. Alternatively, you can use a cast-iron skillet, which also helps retain heat and flavor.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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