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 black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon); 1/2 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love cooking filet mignon when I'm looking to impress someone special. The combination of tender meat and a rich, flavorful red wine sauce makes for an unforgettable dish that sets the mood for any romantic dinner. When preparing this meal, I find that the key is to let the steak rest after searing — it ensures each bite is juicy and bursting with flavor. Pairing it with some roasted vegetables elevates the entire experience, making it perfect for anniversaries or date nights.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:10:18.356Z

When I first made filet mignon with red wine sauce, it was for a special anniversary dinner. I wanted something that conveyed elegance and sophistication without overwhelming my cooking skills. The process of deglazing the pan with red wine truly enhances the sauce, bringing all the flavor from the seared meat into a beautiful glaze.

One standout moment was realizing just how important it is to let the steaks rest before slicing. It locks in the moisture, ensuring each bite is how you dream a filet mignon should taste—tender and succulent. This simple tip changed the way I cook steak forever!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tenderness that melts in your mouth with each bite
Luxurious red wine sauce that enhances the dish's richness
Perfect for creating a romantic atmosphere at home

      

The Art of Searing

Searing the filet mignon is a crucial step that helps develop a deep, savory crust while locking in moisture. To achieve that perfect sear, make sure your skillet is hot enough — ideally around 400°F (204°C). You can test this by flicking a few drops of water on the surface; they should sizzle and evaporate almost immediately. This initial heat creates the Maillard reaction, enhancing the flavor and texture of the steak.

When searing, avoid overcrowding the skillet as this can lower the temperature and prevent that beautiful browning. Cook only one or two steaks at a time, giving each one enough space to sear properly. Depending on your preference, aim for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, checking with a meat thermometer for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).

Crafting the Perfect Sauce

The red wine sauce not only complements the filet mignon but also adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. When choosing a wine, select one you enjoy drinking; the better the wine, the better the sauce will taste. Cabernet Sauvignon is a great choice, providing rich fruit notes and tannins that enhance the sauce’s complexity. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, consider using a good-quality grape juice mixed with a splash of vinegar for acidity.

It’s essential to reduce the sauce properly. After adding the beef broth and thyme, allow it to simmer until it thickens and intensifies in flavor, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. You’re aiming for a reduction by half; the sauce should coat the back of a spoon when done. Whisking in the butter at the end adds a glossy finish and silky mouthfeel, making each bite feel indulgent.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious romantic meal:

For the Filet Mignon

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

For the Red Wine Sauce

1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
1/2 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Make sure to have these ingredients ready to go for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your romantic filet mignon dinner:

Prepare the Steaks

Season the filet mignon generously with salt and black pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes while you prepare the sauce.

Sear the Steaks

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.

Make the Red Wine Sauce

Remove the steaks and let them rest. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté briefly. Pour in red wine and scrape any browned bits.

Add beef broth and thyme, then simmer until reduced by half.

Finish the Sauce

Whisk in butter until melted and the sauce is glossy. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Serve

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

Once you follow these steps, you'll have a delightful romantic meal to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Using a meat thermometer can help achieve the perfect doneness: 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, and 145°F for medium.

Serving Suggestions

To create a visually stunning plate, slice the filet mignon against the grain into thick medallions and fan them out on the plate. Drizzle with the luscious red wine sauce and consider garnishing with fresh thyme or a sprig of rosemary for that extra touch of elegance. Pair the dish with sides like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus to round out your romantic dinner.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a side of creamy polenta or risotto, which will complement the richness of the steak and sauce beautifully. A light, arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast against the richness of the dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

While this dish is best served fresh, you can do some prep work beforehand. Season the filet mignon and let it marinate in the fridge for up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate. For the red wine sauce, you can make it a day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove before serving, adding a touch more butter at the end for that freshly-made taste.

If you've got any leftover steak, you can gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water, covered to retain moisture. This will help prevent overcooking while warming it through. You can also turn leftovers into a delicious steak salad or steak sandwiches, ensuring no delicious morsel goes to waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can substitute with a ribeye or sirloin, but cooking times may vary.

→ What wine pairs best with this dish?

A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the flavors beautifully.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead, but reheat gently before serving.

→ What side dishes pair well?

Roasted asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes make excellent sides for this dish.