Grilled Filet Mignon with Blue Cheese Butter: An Indulgent Culinary Masterpiece

Filet mignon, the epitome of tender beef, deserves a preparation that honors its delicate flavor and texture. This recipe elevates the classic steak to a gourmet experience with a compound butter infused with the pungent and creamy richness of blue cheese. Grilling imparts a smoky char that complements the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of the filet, while the blue cheese butter adds a decadent, savory element that’s simply irresistible. Get ready to impress your guests (or treat yourself!) with this restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Why This Recipe Works

* **Perfectly Tender Filet:** Filet mignon is naturally tender, but proper cooking is crucial. This recipe provides precise grilling instructions to achieve that perfect medium-rare (or your preferred doneness) with a beautiful sear.
* **Blue Cheese Butter Magic:** The compound butter is the star of the show. The combination of high-quality butter and blue cheese creates a flavor explosion that elevates the steak to new heights. It’s also incredibly versatile; you can adjust the amount of blue cheese to your liking.
* **Simple and Elegant:** Despite its gourmet feel, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward. The ingredients are simple, and the grilling process is relatively quick, making it perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight indulgence.
* **Customizable:** This recipe is a great starting point. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or even other types of cheese in the compound butter. You can also add a balsamic glaze or a red wine reduction for an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredients

**For the Filet Mignon:**

* 4 Filet Mignon steaks (6-8 ounces each, about 1.5-2 inches thick)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 teaspoons kosher salt
* 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
* Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced (for rubbing on the steaks)

**For the Blue Cheese Butter:**

* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 4 ounces blue cheese, crumbled (Roquefort, Gorgonzola, or your favorite)
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
* 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

* Outdoor grill (gas or charcoal)
* Grill brush
* Small bowl
* Fork or spatula
* Instant-read thermometer
* Cutting board
* Aluminum foil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Blue Cheese Butter

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, crumbled blue cheese, parsley, chives, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Use a fork or spatula to thoroughly mix all ingredients until well combined and the blue cheese is evenly distributed throughout the butter. Don’t overmix, as this can make the butter greasy.
3. Place the blue cheese butter onto a sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Shape it into a log approximately 6 inches long.
4. Wrap the butter tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours, to allow it to firm up. This makes it easier to slice and place on the steaks.

Step 2: Prepare the Filet Mignon

1. Remove the filet mignon steaks from the refrigerator about 30-45 minutes before grilling. This allows them to come closer to room temperature, which promotes even cooking.
2. Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. Moisture on the surface of the steak will steam it instead of searing it.
3. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. If using, add the minced garlic.
4. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of each steak, ensuring they are well coated. Gently massage the seasoning into the meat.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

1. Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a grill brush. A clean grill is essential for preventing the steaks from sticking and for achieving those beautiful grill marks.
2. Preheat the grill to high heat (450-550°F or 232-288°C). This is important for getting a good sear on the outside of the steaks while keeping the inside tender.
3. If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals so that you have a hot zone for searing and a cooler zone for indirect cooking. This allows you to control the cooking process more effectively.

Step 4: Grill the Filet Mignon

1. Place the seasoned filet mignon steaks on the hot grill grates. Be careful not to overcrowd the grill; cook in batches if necessary.
2. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, without moving them. This will create a beautiful crust and lock in the juices.
3. After searing, reduce the heat to medium (350-450°F or 177-232°C) or move the steaks to the cooler zone of the grill (if using a charcoal grill).
4. Continue grilling for another 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature:
* Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
* Medium: 135-145°F (57-63°C)
* Medium-Well: 145-155°F (63-68°C)
* Well-Done: 155°F+ (68°C+)

Remember that the internal temperature will continue to rise slightly as the steaks rest.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Once the steaks reach your desired internal temperature, remove them from the grill and place them on a cutting board.
2. Tent the steaks loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
3. While the steaks are resting, slice the chilled blue cheese butter into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
4. After resting, top each steak with a slice or two of the blue cheese butter. The heat from the steak will melt the butter, creating a rich and decadent sauce.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Grilling the Perfect Filet Mignon

* **Choose High-Quality Steaks:** The quality of the meat is paramount for a great filet mignon. Look for steaks that are well-marbled and have a deep red color. Prime or Choice grade steaks are ideal.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Filet mignon is best enjoyed medium-rare or medium. Overcooking will result in a dry and tough steak. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.
* **Let the Steaks Rest:** Resting the steaks after grilling is crucial for allowing the juices to redistribute. This results in a more tender and flavorful steak. Don’t skip this step!
* **Sear at High Heat:** Searing the steaks at high heat creates a beautiful crust and locks in the juices. Make sure your grill is properly preheated before adding the steaks.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** A meat thermometer is your best friend when grilling steak. It’s the most accurate way to ensure that your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
* **Don’t Flip Too Often:** Resist the urge to flip the steaks repeatedly. Allow them to sear properly on each side before flipping. This will create a better crust and prevent the steaks from drying out.
* **Consider Reverse Searing:** For an even more tender steak, consider reverse searing. This involves cooking the steaks at a low temperature in the oven until they are almost to your desired doneness, then searing them on a hot grill for a few minutes per side.
* **Season Generously:** Don’t be afraid to season the steaks generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance their natural flavor.

Variations and Additions

* **Garlic Herb Butter:** Substitute the blue cheese with minced garlic, fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano), and a squeeze of lemon juice for a flavorful garlic herb butter.
* **Spicy Chipotle Butter:** Add a tablespoon of chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the butter for a spicy kick.
* **Mushroom Sauce:** Serve the grilled filet mignon with a creamy mushroom sauce for a classic combination.
* **Balsamic Glaze:** Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the steaks for a sweet and tangy flavor.
* **Red Wine Reduction:** Create a red wine reduction by simmering red wine with shallots, garlic, and beef broth until thickened. Serve over the steaks for a rich and elegant sauce.
* **Serve with Roasted Vegetables:** Pair the filet mignon with roasted vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes for a complete and balanced meal.
* **Add a Side of Creamy Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the rich and flavorful filet mignon.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled filet mignon with blue cheese butter is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways.

* **Special Occasion Dinner:** Serve as the main course for a special occasion dinner, such as a birthday, anniversary, or holiday celebration.
* **Romantic Dinner for Two:** Create a romantic dinner for two by serving the filet mignon with a side of roasted vegetables and a bottle of your favorite wine.
* **Impress Your Guests:** Impress your guests with this restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
* **Weeknight Indulgence:** Treat yourself to a weeknight indulgence by serving the filet mignon with a simple salad and a glass of red wine.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

* Calories: 600-800
* Protein: 40-50g
* Fat: 40-60g
* Carbohydrates: 2-4g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

* **Storing:** Store leftover filet mignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat leftover filet mignon gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry out the steak. You can also slice the cold filet mignon and add it to salads or sandwiches.
* **Freezing:** While not ideal (freezing can affect the texture of filet mignon), you can freeze cooked filet mignon. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

This grilled filet mignon with blue cheese butter is a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress. The tender, juicy steak, combined with the rich and flavorful blue cheese butter, creates a truly unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, this recipe is a winner. So fire up the grill and get ready to indulge in a little bit of luxury!