🥩 Filet Mignon in Rich Madeira Sauce – A Classic Gourmet Delight
Looking to impress at dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor? This filet mignon with Madeira wine sauce is a timeless dish that’s both elegant and comforting. Perfect for special occasions or date nights at home, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with a simple step-by-step method.
📋 Ingredients
- 400g (14 oz) filet mignon, sliced into medallions (escalopes)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 400ml (1¾ cups) beef stock (preferably homemade or very concentrated)
- 100ml (⅓ cup + 1 tbsp) dry Madeira wine (or substitute with dry red wine)
- 100g (3.5 oz) fresh mushrooms, thinly sliced
🔪 Instructions
1. Season the Meat
Lightly season the filet medallions with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Then dust them with half of the flour, ensuring a light and even coating without excess.
2. Sear the Filet Mignon
In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Sear the medallions for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown on the outside but still juicy and tender inside. Remove from the pan and keep warm (cover with foil or place in a warm oven).
3. Prepare the Madeira Sauce
In the same pan, add the remaining flour (dissolved in a bit of the beef stock to avoid lumps). Gradually pour in the rest of the beef broth, stirring constantly. Add the Madeira wine and mushrooms.
Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes over medium heat, or until it thickens to a smooth, velvety consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to help the flavors meld.
4. Combine and Serve
Return the filet medallions to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top to coat them well. Let them warm in the sauce for about 2 more minutes (do not overcook).
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This indulgent main course pairs beautifully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Steamed white rice
- Buttered asparagus or green beans
- Roasted root vegetables
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Use high-quality beef stock for depth of flavor; concentrated homemade broth is ideal.
- Do not overcook the meat—filet mignon is best enjoyed medium-rare to medium for optimal tenderness.
- Want a more intense flavor? Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a few thyme sprigs to the sauce.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream just before finishing the sauce.
🌟 Why This Dish Works
- Elegant yet simple: A sophisticated dish using just a few ingredients.
- Restaurant-style experience at home: Madeira wine adds depth, richness, and aroma.
- Impressively flavorful: Tender meat, velvety sauce, and mushrooms create a luxurious bite every time.
🥄 Final Thoughts
This Filet Mignon in Madeira Sauce is a true culinary gem—refined, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or simply craving a hearty meal with a gourmet twist, this recipe will exceed expectations. Give it a try and let it become a favorite in your kitchen.
