Filet Mignon With Madeira Wine Sauce
Tender filet mignon paired with a rich Madeira wine sauce creates an elegant dish perfect for special occasions or sophisticated dinners. Flavored with shallots, parsley, and a velvety sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet until very hot, then add the filet mignon.
- Cook on high heat for about 5 minutes on each side for rare; cook longer for medium or well done.
- Remove the meat to a warm platter and keep warm.
- Pour off excess fat from the skillet.
- Add chopped shallots and Madeira wine to the skillet and cook over high heat for 30 seconds.
- Add beef broth and bring to a full rolling boil, stirring to dissolve browned particles from the skillet.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook until the sauce is reduced by half.
- In a small bowl, blend 2 teaspoons of butter with the flour.
- Stir the butter-flour mixture into the simmering sauce and cook briefly until thickened.
- Swirl in the remaining teaspoon of butter.
- Strain the sauce over the meat and dot each filet with a dab of chopped parsley.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, allow the filet mignon to come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking. If you don't have Madeira wine, you can substitute with a dry sherry or a good quality red wine. Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution. Always let the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the filet mignon with the rich Madeira wine sauce drizzled over the top. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a creamy mashed potato side. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the dish. For a special touch, consider serving it alongside a glass of the same Madeira wine used in the recipe.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover filet mignon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist. Cover with a lid to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave on low power, checking frequently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Filet Mignon With Madeira Wine Sauce contains roughly 267 calories, with 18g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (143% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), and potassium (66% of the Daily Value). At about 267 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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
How do I know when the filet mignon is cooked to my liking?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For rare, aim for 120-125°F, medium-rare is 130-135°F, and medium is 140-145°F. Remember that the meat will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the skillet, so it's best to take it off the heat just before it reaches the desired temperature.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Madeira wine sauce in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator after it has cooled completely. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on the stove, adding a little beef broth if it thickens too much. This will save you time and allow you to focus on cooking the filet mignon.
What can I serve with filet mignon?
Filet mignon pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider creamy garlic mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus for a classic combination. You could also serve it with a side of sautéed mushrooms or a fresh herb salad. For an American twist, serving it alongside Kitchen Summer Sausage can add a unique flavor profile to your meal.
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).