How To Cook The Perfect Fillet Steak (The Easy Way)

Juicy, succulent and melt-in-your-mouth tender, a fillet steak (or filet mignon) is something we often save for a posh meal out – but it’s actually very simple to cook at home.

All you need to cook fillet steak is two things: High heat and constant attention. Cook it right, and it’s the most tender steak there is, with a delicate but rich flavour that’s perfect if you prefer a leaner cut of beef.

So if fillet steak is on your menu tonight, here’s how to cook it like a professional.

How To Cook A Fillet Steak In 5 Easy Steps

Want to master the perfect fillet steak recipe without breaking a sweat? From seasoning to sizzling, we’ve broken it down into five simple steps. Whether you like it rare or well done, you’ll have a beautifully seared, tender steak on your plate in under 15 minutes – no stress, no guesswork, just pure flavour.

Step 1: Remove the fillet steak from the fridge

Take your meat out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking it. This is really important, as bringing it to room temperature will give you a much more even cook!

Step 2: Season your fillet steak for maximum flavour

Rub your steaks with a little vegetable oil, then season generously with salt on both sides. Salt doesn’t just add flavour – it helps create that irresistible crust by drawing out surface moisture, which caramelises beautifully in the pan. Don’t be shy with it – a good steak loves a good seasoning.

Wondering how to season a fillet steak beyond the basics? A crack of black pepper adds gentle heat, while crushed garlic, smoked paprika or rosemary brings a bolder edge. Just keep it simple; the goal is to enhance the steak, not hide it.

Step 3: Get your pan sizzling hot!

While you’re seasoning your steak to perfection, heat a large, dry wide-based pan until it’s ripping hot! Then place your steak in the (very hot!) pan, and don’t touch or move it while it cooks. This will help it develop a lovely golden brown crust.

Top tip! Fillet steaks are usually thicker than a sirloin or ribeye, so they take a little longer to finish cooking.

Step 4: Master the different cooking times for the best steak

Once your steak is golden brown, turn the temperature down so you keep cooking the steak without burning it. Turn the steak more regularly to prevent burning.

Depending on how you like your steak, you will need to cook your steak in the pan for different times:

– For rare, cook for 3-4 minutes max on each side.

– For medium-rare, cook for 4-5 minutes on each side.

– For medium, cook for 5-6 minutes on each side.

Top tip! Every steak will be slightly different in shape, size and texture, so cooking times will vary. If you notice one steak is a little thicker than the other, cook it for an extra 30 seconds in the pan on each side.

Step 5: Rest, rest and more rest!

Rest your meat! Resist digging in straight away, as resting improves the flavour and juiciness of your steak. Transfer to a plate, cover loosely with tin foil and set aside somewhere warm for at least 5 minutes.

Make It a Steak Night to Remember

Now you’ve mastered how to cook the perfect fillet steak, the real fun begins — how will you serve it? Whether it’s with zingy chimichurri with sweet potato wedges, crispy polenta chips with mushroom sauce, or our indulgent 21-Day Aged Fillet Steak with Chunky Chips and Creamy Peppercorn Sauce, there’s a perfect pairing for every steak lover.

Looking to turn dinner into a proper occasion? Check out our guide on How To Host A Gourmet Night In for tips on setting the mood, choosing the drinks, and making your meal feel extra special, no reservations needed.

However you plate it up, follow these easy steps and you’ll sear a juicy, flavour-packed fillet steak just the way you like it, every single time. Ready to impress? Explore this week’s menu or the Cookbook and see what other dishes you can create that will wow your loved ones.