Romantic Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce

Name: Romantic Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup red wine (preferably Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon); 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore making this Romantic Filet Mignon with Red Wine Sauce for special evenings. Each time, the tender, juicy filet pairs perfectly with the rich, flavorful sauce that elevates our dining experience. The key to its succulence is allowing the beef to come to room temperature before cooking, ensuring a beautifully even sear. Whether it’s an anniversary or a quiet dinner at home, this dish never fails to impress and makes any night feel extraordinary.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:28:11.386Z

When I first attempted this dish, I was amazed at how simple yet sophisticated it turned out. Combining the filet mignon with this red wine sauce transformed a regular night into a romantic dinner. One detail I discovered was to use a good quality wine; it truly makes a difference in flavor.

Over the years, I've experimented with different herbs and spices added to the sauce, which allowed me to create a dish that reflects my culinary flair. If you can let the meat rest properly before serving, you'll find it becomes even more tender and flavorful, enhancing the overall experience.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Juicy filet mignon cooked to perfection
Rich red wine sauce adds depth of flavor
Impressive enough for special occasions

      

Choosing the Perfect Cut

When selecting filet mignon, opt for steaks that are bright red with a consistent, marbled appearance. The marbling is critical as it ensures tenderness and flavor. I recommend choosing steaks that are at least 1.5 inches thick for optimal cooking; thinner cuts can easily become overcooked and lose their juiciness. If you have the opportunity, ask your butcher for a cut from the larger end of the tenderloin for the best quality steak.

To enhance the flavor, season the filet mignon liberally with salt and pepper at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat, ensuring a well-seasoned exterior with each bite. Additionally, letting the steaks come to room temperature helps them cook evenly, reducing the risk of a cold center and ensuring that you achieve a delightful crust when searing.

Crafting the Red Wine Sauce

The red wine sauce is a game changer for your filet mignon. Using a full-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon adds rich flavor and depth to the sauce. When cooking the sauce, be sure to let it simmer gently; a rolling boil can lead to a bitter taste. You'll want the wine to reduce by about half, which should take around 10-15 minutes, thickening the sauce as it concentrates the flavors.

For an added layer of taste, consider incorporating shallots or mushrooms into the sauce. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the wine. Not only do they enhance flavor, but they also provide wonderful texture. If you find your sauce is too acidic, you can add a teaspoon of sugar to balance it out, adjusting according to your taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Romantic Filet Mignon:

For the filet mignon

2 filet mignon steaks (6-8 oz each)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced

For the red wine sauce

1 cup red wine (preferably Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready for cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect Romantic Filet Mignon:

Prepare the steaks

Let the filet mignon sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Sear the filet

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the filets and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, until desired doneness.

Make the sauce

Remove the steaks and let them rest. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter and garlic. Cook until fragrant, then add red wine, broth, and thyme. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Thicken the sauce (if desired)

Mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it to the sauce to thicken. Stir continuously until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.

Serve

Slice the filets and drizzle with the red wine sauce. Enjoy your romantic dinner!

Don't forget to pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes!

Pro Tips

For the best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure your filet mignon reaches the perfect internal temperature: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your filet mignon with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus for a well-rounded meal. A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing can also provide a refreshing contrast to the savory meat and richness of the sauce. To elevate the dining experience further, serve with a bottle of the same red wine used in the sauce, as it will complement the flavors beautifully.

For an even more romantic touch, consider setting the table with candles and soft music. The ambiance can enhance the dining experience, making each bite feel special. Remember to slice the filet against the grain before serving; this will ensure each piece melts in your mouth.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover filet mignon, it’s best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for 3-4 days. To reheat, place the filets in a skillet over low heat, allowing them to warm slowly and evenly without drying out. You might also add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent the meat from becoming tough.

The red wine sauce can be stored separately and reheated in the same way—on low heat until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a touch of water or broth to return to the desired consistency. Both components can also be frozen, but I recommend reheating them gently and ensuring you cool them completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of steak?

Yes, while filet mignon is ideal for its tenderness, you can use ribeye or sirloin as alternatives.

→ What type of wine should I use?

A dry red wine works best, like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, as it enhances the sauce's flavor.

→ Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat it gently when ready to serve the steak.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad complement the filet mignon beautifully.