Herbed Foil Pack Filet Mignon
Highlighted under: Warm Plates
I absolutely adore cooking filet mignon in foil packs! It keeps the meat tender and juicy while infusing it with aromatic herbs. You won't believe how easy it is to prepare these packets for grilling or baking. The flavor is enhanced dramatically from the herbs and it creates a beautiful presentation when you open the pack. Plus, clean-up is a breeze! Let's dive into this simple yet spectacular dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a weekend treat.
When I first tried making filet mignon in foil packs, I was super impressed with how well it turned out. The combination of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme elevates the taste, and the results are incredibly restaurant-worthy. The steam created in the foil packs locks in moisture, ensuring each bite is perfectly tender.
One of my favorite parts about cooking in foil is the minimal cleanup! After enjoying a delicious meal, everything can be tossed away, leaving no pans to scrub. It’s a win-win situation for busy weeknights or any time you want to impress your guests without a lot of effort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy filet mignon infused with fresh herbs for maximum flavor
- Easy clean-up with minimal mess
- Perfectly cooked meat every time, whether on the grill or in the oven
- Impressive presentation that will wow your guests
Choosing Your Filet Mignon
When selecting filet mignon, look for cuts that are bright red with a good amount of marbling. The marbled fat throughout the meat will render down during cooking, adding flavor and ensuring juiciness. A thicker cut, around 1.5 to 2 inches, is ideal for cooking in foil packs as it retains moisture better and can withstand the heat, resulting in a perfect medium-rare doneness after about 20 minutes.
If you're grilling, choose steaks that are at room temperature before cooking. This allows for even cooking throughout the steak. Additionally, if you're aiming for a more robust flavor profile, ask your butcher for a grass-fed option. Grass-fed beef tends to have a slightly different taste due to the animal’s diet, but it can enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
Timing and Temperature Tips
Cooking filet mignon in foil packs is a fail-safe way to achieve perfectly cooked meat. If you prefer your steaks medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of around 130°F (54°C) at the core as you remove them from the grill or oven; the meat will continue to cook while it rests. Ensure you use a meat thermometer for accurate readings, especially if you’re new to cooking steak.
If you're looking to cater to different preferences, consider cooking a mix of steak sizes in separate foil packs. Larger filets may need an additional few minutes, while smaller ones could be done sooner. Check on them after 15 minutes and adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure all your guests are satisfied with their steak doneness.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Herbed Foil Pack Filet Mignon
- 4 filet mignon steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary for garnish
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Foil Pack
Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil and lay them flat. Place a filet mignon steak in the center of each piece.
Season the Steaks
Drizzle olive oil over each steak, and then sprinkle the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper evenly on top.
Seal the Packs
Fold the foil over the steaks to create a tightly sealed packet. Make sure there's enough room inside for steam to circulate.
Cook the Filet Mignon
Place the foil packs on the grill or in the oven. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the desired doneness is achieved.
Serve and Enjoy
Carefully open the foil packs, being cautious of the hot steam. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, feel free to customize the herbs and spices based on your preferences. You can also add vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers to the foil packs for a complete meal.
Storage and Make-Ahead
If you're planning a dinner party, the herbed foil packs can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Simply season the steaks and seal them in the foil, then refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors of the herbs to infuse deeper into the meat, enhancing the overall taste.
For leftovers, store the cooked foil packs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C) to prevent the meat from overcooking, heating just until warmed through. The foil will help retain moisture during reheating, ensuring the filet mignon remains tender.
Serving Suggestions
For an elegant presentation, serve your herbed foil pack filet mignon on a platter with seasonal vegetables that have been grilled or roasted. The contrasting colors of the vibrant veggies alongside the exquisite filet will delight your guests. You could also consider drizzling a balsamic reduction over the plate for added tang and a gourmet touch.
Pair the meal with a full-bodied red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, which complements the richness of the filet mignon beautifully. A simple side of herb-infused mashed potatoes or creamy polenta would work perfectly, balancing the dish while allowing the standout flavors of the steak to shine.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen filet mignon?
It's best to use fresh or thawed filet mignon for optimal tenderness. If using frozen, ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.
→ What if I don't have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs can be used, but you'll need to adjust the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated. Use about one-third of the amount.
→ Can I cook these in the oven?
Yes, these foil packs can be baked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for the same amount of time as grilling.
→ What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes make excellent side dishes that complement the filet mignon flawlessly.
Herbed Foil Pack Filet Mignon
I absolutely adore cooking filet mignon in foil packs! It keeps the meat tender and juicy while infusing it with aromatic herbs. You won't believe how easy it is to prepare these packets for grilling or baking. The flavor is enhanced dramatically from the herbs and it creates a beautiful presentation when you open the pack. Plus, clean-up is a breeze! Let's dive into this simple yet spectacular dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a weekend treat.
What You'll Need
For the Herbed Foil Pack Filet Mignon
- 4 filet mignon steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary for garnish
- Aluminum foil
How-To Steps
Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil and lay them flat. Place a filet mignon steak in the center of each piece.
Drizzle olive oil over each steak, and then sprinkle the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper evenly on top.
Fold the foil over the steaks to create a tightly sealed packet. Make sure there's enough room inside for steam to circulate.
Place the foil packs on the grill or in the oven. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the desired doneness is achieved.
Carefully open the foil packs, being cautious of the hot steam. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, feel free to customize the herbs and spices based on your preferences. You can also add vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers to the foil packs for a complete meal.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 75mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 0g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 32g