Herbed Butter Filet Mignon Bites
Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes
When I crave a dish that combines elegance with comfort, Herbed Butter Filet Mignon Bites come to mind. These tender morsels of beef, enriched with a flavorful herb butter, transform an ordinary evening into a special occasion. I love how quickly they come together, making them perfect for both casual gatherings and upscale dinners. Pair them with a good wine, and you have a winner. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible, inviting everyone to the table.
Creating Herbed Butter Filet Mignon Bites is something I look forward to every time I entertain. The combination of herb flavors enhances the richness of the beef, and I've learned that allowing the butter to sit for a while infuses the herbs into every bite. This simple technique elevates the flavor profile wonderfully, making each piece a delight to savor.
When cooking the bites, a hot skillet is key to achieving that lovely sear without overcooking the meat. I’ve experimented with various cooking times and found that keeping it to a few minutes per side gives you a perfect medium-rare. Serve immediately, and watch as everyone raves about this dish!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juicy, tender beef packed with aromatic herb flavor
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion
- Impressive presentation that will wow your guests
- Versatile – pairs beautifully with various sides
Mastering the Perfect Sear
The key to achieving that mouthwatering crust on your filet mignon bites lies in the temperature and timing of your skillet. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot enough that a drop of water sizzles and evaporates almost instantly. When you add the beef, avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can trap steam and prevent the sought-after brown color. Instead, sear the bites in batches if necessary, allowing each piece enough space to develop a golden, flavorful crust.
As the beef cooks, keep an eye on the color. You want to achieve a beautiful brown on the outside while maintaining a medium-rare doneness inside. A quick 2-3 minutes per side should suffice. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read around 130°F for medium-rare. Just remember to let the bites rest after cooking, as this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender bite.
Crafting the Herbed Butter
Making herbed butter is a straightforward process, but the blending of flavors is crucial. The freshness of your herbs can significantly influence the final taste, so opt for high-quality, fresh parsley and thyme. Using soft, room-temperature butter helps the herbs incorporate evenly, creating a smooth, rich flavor profile. If you find yourself short on time, you can use a fork to quickly mash the ingredients together instead of whisking.
For a twist on flavor, consider adding ingredients like chopped chives or a hint of crushed red pepper flakes to the herbed butter for an extra kick. If you prefer a dairy-free option, vegan butter can be used as a substitute. Additionally, the butter can be prepared in advance, stored in the fridge for up to a week, or even frozen for longer storage. Simply slice off rounds as needed for your filet mignon bites.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Bites
- 1 lb filet mignon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Herbed Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
Combine all ingredients for the herbed butter in a mixing bowl and refrigerate while you prepare the bites.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Herbed Butter
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with parsley, thyme, garlic, and lemon zest until well combined. Transfer to parchment paper, roll into a log, and chill in the fridge.
Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the filet mignon pieces with salt and pepper. Sear the bites in the hot skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but still pink in the center.
Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and let the bites rest for a minute. Slice the chilled herbed butter into rounds and place on top of each bite to melt. Serve immediately.
These bites are best enjoyed hot with your favorite side dishes.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, you can marinate the filet mignon pieces in a bit of red wine and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
To truly elevate your dining experience with these filet mignon bites, consider serving them alongside complementary sides. Creamy garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh arugula salad not only enhance the meal’s richness but also provide a contrast in texture and flavor. Pairing with a smooth red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon, can bring out the steak’s natural flavors while balancing the buttery herb notes.
For added depth, try drizzling a balsamic reduction over your bites prior to serving. This tangy sauce contrasts beautifully with the richness of the beef and herbed butter. Presentation is key, so arrange the bites on a wooden board or a stylish platter, garnished with fresh herbs to impress your guests.
Making It Your Own
Don’t hesitate to customize the herbed butter to suit your personal taste. If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, adding a touch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper can add an exciting dimension. Alternatively, experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil, which also pair wonderfully with beef, giving the bites a unique flavor profile and personal touch.
Another fun variation is to skew the beef bites with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini before searing. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also incorporates additional flavors. Just be mindful of the cooking time; vegetables may need slight adjustments to ensure everything is perfectly cooked and tender.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other cuts of beef?
Yes, while filet mignon is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use sirloin or ribeye for a different flavor.
→ How can I make these bites ahead of time?
You can prepare the herbed butter and sear the beef bites ahead of time. Just chill them and rewarm before serving.
→ What can I serve with these bites?
They pair well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
→ Can I freeze the herbed butter?
Absolutely! Herbed butter can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just slice off pieces as needed.
Herbed Butter Filet Mignon Bites
When I crave a dish that combines elegance with comfort, Herbed Butter Filet Mignon Bites come to mind. These tender morsels of beef, enriched with a flavorful herb butter, transform an ordinary evening into a special occasion. I love how quickly they come together, making them perfect for both casual gatherings and upscale dinners. Pair them with a good wine, and you have a winner. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible, inviting everyone to the table.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Bites
- 1 lb filet mignon, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Herbed Butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
How-To Steps
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with parsley, thyme, garlic, and lemon zest until well combined. Transfer to parchment paper, roll into a log, and chill in the fridge.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the filet mignon pieces with salt and pepper. Sear the bites in the hot skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but still pink in the center.
Remove the skillet from heat and let the bites rest for a minute. Slice the chilled herbed butter into rounds and place on top of each bite to melt. Serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, you can marinate the filet mignon pieces in a bit of red wine and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 20g