Filet mignon is the steak of choice for a romantic dinner — it boasts both exceptional flavor and texture. The steak, which is cut from the center of the beef tenderloin, is the most tender piece of meat on the cow. When properly cooked, the cut develops a beautifully caramelized exterior and a rosy glow within. Put away your serrated knife — you could cut through this beauty with a butter knife.

To highlight the flavor of filet mignon, you need to sear the filet quickly, then reduce the heat and let the interior come to temperature. You can do this on the grill if you’re careful, but be aware there’s not much fat on this piece of meat, so there’s very little wiggle room when it comes to cooking. The oven is another option, and though you might miss the smoky flavor of the barbecue, you’re less apt to overcook the meat. However you decide to cook your steak, be sure to pair it with a sauce — we’ve given you five sauce-and-steak combos sure to impress any Valentine.

Classic Filet Mignon

Roasting filet mignon in the oven insures you can keep temperatures consistent, resulting in a perfectly done steak. The silky béarnaise sauce compliments the meat beautifully.

Grilled Filet Mignon

with Herb Butter Texas Toast

Yes, it’s wintertime, but it’s worth firing up the grill for this amazing steak. The herb butter soaks into the crevices of the meat and onto the thick-cut toasts.

Filet Mignon with

Madeira-Prune Sauce

Roasted shallots, prunes and sweet Madeira wine make for a heavenly sweet-and-savory sauce that’s perfect for a special romantic dinner.

Grilled Filet Mignon

with Blackened Tomato and Oregano Sauce

Want something a little out of the ordinary? Try this complex tomato sauce made with onions and chiles to offset the rich, earthy meat.

Filet Mignon with

Blueberry-Bourbon Barbecue Sauce

Blueberries and bourbon team up to create a deep purple sauce that’s bursting with fruity flavor.

Looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day dinner to make for that special someone? Browse all our romatic Valentine’s Day dinners!

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Categories: Other Holidays & Parties | Tags: Beef Tenderloin, Filet Mignon, Romantic Dinners, Steak, Valentine's Day
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