The secret to mastering Costco filet mignon lies in understanding the nuances that elevate this premium cut to steakhouse heights right in your own kitchen. Why settle for mediocrity when you can achieve perfection with just a few expert techniques?

With over 15 years in the kitchen, I’ve experimented with every cooking method imaginable, and today, I’m here to reveal the essentials.

You’ll learn how to pan-sear this tenderloin steak to craft a buttery texture, harness the searing heat of a cast iron skillet, and achieve perfect doneness with a meat thermometer.

Whether you’re looking to grill or oven-bake, infuse flavors with a steak marinade, or even try a modern twist with sous vide, this guide has you covered.

By the end, you’ll not only know how to cook a Costco filet mignon but also how to turn it into a culinary masterpiece, ideal for any festive meal or holiday dinner. Ready to impress? Let’s dive in.

How To Cook Costco Filet Mignon: The Quick Version

To cook a delicious filet mignon from Costco, you can follow these methods: grilling, pan-searing, or using the reverse sear technique. Below are detailed steps for each method.

Grilling Method

Ingredients

  • 2-inch thick Costco filet mignon
  • Montreal steak seasoning (or salt and pepper)
  • Butter

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Take the filet mignon out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps the meat cook evenly.
  2. Seasoning: Generously coat the steak with Montreal seasoning or simply salt and pepper.
  3. Grilling Setup: Prepare your grill for high heat. If using charcoal, fill the chimney and let the coals get hot. Once ready, dump the coals to one side of the grill to create direct and indirect heat zones.
  4. Searing: Place the steak over direct heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side to create a nice sear.
  5. Indirect Cooking: Move the steak to the indirect heat side of the grill and cook for an additional 5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
  6. Finishing Touch: Once done, add a pat of butter on top of the steak and let it melt before serving.

Pan-Searing Method

Ingredients

  • 2 (6-8 oz, 1½-2 inch) filet mignon
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • High-smoke point oil (like avocado or grapeseed oil)
  • Salted butter

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Remove the steaks from the fridge about an hour before cooking to bring them to room temperature.
  2. Seasoning: Generously season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper.
  3. Heating the Pan: Heat an oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron) over high heat and add a tablespoon of oil.
  4. Searing: Once the oil is shimmering, add the filet mignon to the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until a crust forms.
  5. Oven Cooking: If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it to a preheated oven at 450°F for about 6-8 minutes for medium-rare. If not, transfer the steaks to a baking dish.
  6. Butter Baste: In the last minute of cooking, add butter to the pan and baste the steaks with the melted butter.
  7. Resting: Let the steaks rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Reverse Sear Method

Ingredients

  • 2-inch thick filet mignon
  • Salt and pepper
  • Butter

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 275°F. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
  2. Oven Cooking: Place the steak on a rack in a baking dish and cook in the oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 115°F.
  3. Searing: Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat. Once hot, add the steak and sear for about 90 seconds on each side until a crust forms and it reaches your desired doneness (about 125°F for medium-rare).
  4. Butter Baste: Add butter to the skillet during the last moments of searing to enhance flavor.
  5. Resting: Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Each method yields a flavorful and tender filet mignon, perfect for a special occasion or a delightful dinner at home.

Preparing for Cooking

Choosing the Right Cut

When learning how to cook Costco filet mignon, the first step is selecting the perfect cut. Look for USDA Prime for superior marbling and tenderness, though USDA Choice is also excellent. Examine the meat for bright red color and minimal silver skin—key indicators of quality.

Tools and Equipment

Equipping your kitchen properly ensures the best results.

  • Essential Tools: A sharp chef’s knife, sturdy cutting board, and a reliable meat thermometer.
  • Recommended Cookware: Opt for a cast iron skillet for searing and a gas grill for achieving smoky flavors.

Preparing the Meat

Proper preparation can make or break your filet mignon.

  • Thawing: Use a refrigerator for slow, even thawing.
  • Trimming: Remove any excess fat and silver skin.
  • Seasoning: Basic salt and pepper work wonders, but feel free to experiment with marinades and special steak rubs.

Cooking Techniques

Pan-Searing

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Searing creates a delicious crust while keeping the interior tender.

  • Step-by-step: Preheat the skillet to high heat, sear each side for 3-4 minutes.
  • Key points: High heat is crucial for achieving a crust. Flip only once to maintain moisture.

Grilling

For an outdoor flavor profile, grilling is superb.

  • Methods: Use direct heat for initial sear, then finish with indirect heat to cook evenly.
  • Flavoring: Ensure the grill is hot, and aim for those perfect grill marks.

Sous Vide

Sous vide offers precision in achieving the desired doneness.

  • Technique: Set the temperature to 130°F for medium-rare, cook for 1-2 hours.
  • Finishing: After sous vide cooking, sear the steak quickly in a cast iron skillet.

Oven Roasting

Oven roasting locks in flavors and ensures even cooking.

  • Benefits: Retains juiciness, especially when combined with searing.
  • Guidelines: After searing, roast at 400°F until reaching the desired temperature.

Doneness and Temperature Control

Understanding Doneness Levels

Recognizing doneness is critical.

  • Levels: Rare, medium-rare, medium, well-done.
  • Cues: Rare – cool red center; Medium-rare – warm red center; Medium – pink center; Well-done – no pink.

Using a Meat Thermometer

An accurate meat thermometer is non-negotiable.

  • Placement: Insert into the thickest part of the filet.
  • Target temps: Rare – 125°F, Medium-rare – 135°F, Medium – 145°F, Well-done – 160°F.

Serving Suggestions

Resting the Meat

Resting allows juices to redistribute.

  • Time: Let the filet rest for at least 5 minutes.
  • Benefit: Enhances juiciness and tenderness.

Slicing and Presentation

Proper slicing boosts texture and flavor.

  • Technique: Slice against the grain for tenderness.
  • Plating: Arrange attractively, with a compound butter or a sprinkle of finishing salt.

Accompaniments and Side Dishes

Pairings elevate the meal.

  • Classics: Mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus.
  • Creative: Truffle fries, roasted root vegetables add a gourmet touch.

Tips and Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

Small touches can dramatically elevate flavor.

  • Techniques: Use compound butters and finishing salts.
  • Herbs: Incorporate during cooking for aromatic enhancement.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Avoid pitfalls with these tips.

  • Overcooking: Monitor closely to prevent dryness.
  • Perfect Sear: Ensure the skillet is scorching hot.
  • Even Cooking: Use indirect grilling or sous vide for uniform doneness.

Health and Nutritional Considerations

Nutritional Profile of Filet Mignon

Understand its health benefits.

  • Macros: High in protein, moderate fat, low carbs.
  • Nutrients: Rich in vitamins and minerals, like B12 and iron.

Health Benefits and Considerations

Incorporating filet mignon into a balanced diet.

  • Lean Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.
  • Moderation: Enjoy as part of a balanced diet to reap health benefits.

FAQ On How To Cook Costco Filet Mignon

What is the best way to season Costco filet mignon?

For a Costco filet mignon, seasoning should be straightforward yet effective. Generously rub the meat with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Add a touch of garlic powder or finely chopped rosemary for an added layer of flavor that complements the tenderloin steak.

Should I marinate the filet mignon before cooking?

While filet mignon is naturally tender, marinating can introduce new flavors. Consider a simple steak marinade of olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme.

Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour, enough to penetrate but not overpower the premium beef.

How long should I cook filet mignon on each side?

For a perfect filet mignon cooked in a cast iron skillet, sear each side for 3-4 minutes at high heat. This method ensures a savory crust forms.

Then, transfer the skillet to an oven preheated at 400°F, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes depending on your preferred doneness.

What temperature should filet mignon be cooked to?

The key to a juicy filet mignon is using a meat thermometer. Aim for 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, and 145°F for medium.

Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, ensuring accurate temperature reading without overcooking.

Can I cook filet mignon on a grill?

Certainly! Use a gas grill or electric grill for perfect grill marks. Preheat the grill to high. Sear each side of the filet for 4-5 minutes, then move to indirect heat, continue grilling for another 5-7 minutes. This method preserves the juiciness retention of the steak.

How do I cook filet mignon in the oven?

First, sear the filet mignon on the stove using a cast iron skillet for 2-3 minutes each side. Then, transfer to an oven preheated at 400°F. Bake for 6-8 minutes. This dual technique ensures a flavorful crust and a tender, buttery interior.

Is sous vide a good method for cooking filet mignon?

Absolutely. The sous vide method helps maintain the perfect level of tenderness and juiciness. Set your sous vide machine to 130°F for medium-rare.

Season the filet, vacuum seal it, and let it cook in water for 1-2 hours. Finish with a quick sear in a cast iron skillet.

How do I know when filet mignon is done?

Using a meat thermometer, you can ensure your filet mignon is perfectly done. A temperature of 125°F indicates rare, 135°F medium-rare, and 145°F medium. Always insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak for the most accurate reading.

How should I let filet mignon rest after cooking?

Resting your filet mignon allows juices to redistribute. Once you remove the steak from heat, let it rest on a cutting board, covered loosely with aluminum foil for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a juicy, buttery texture.

What sides pair well with filet mignon?

Classic sides like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a fresh garden salad complement the richness of filet mignon.

A light red wine reduction sauce or herb butter can enhance your steakhouse-quality meal, providing a balanced and delightful dining experience.

Conclusion

Mastering how to cook Costco filet mignon doesn’t just make your meal elegant—it turns it into an experience. This premium cut, known for its tenderness and flavor, deserves the right approach. Whether you’re searing in a cast iron skillet, grilling on a gas grill, or perfecting it using sous vide, the techniques shared ensure a steakhouse-quality result every time.

Key steps include:

  • Proper seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional herbs.
  • Achieving the perfect sear to lock in juices.
  • Monitoring temperature with a meat thermometer.
  • Letting the filet mignon rest after cooking.

From selecting your Costco filet mignon to adding the final touches before serving, each tip I’ve imparted aims to elevate your culinary skills. The journey doesn’t end here, though. Keep experimenting with steak marinades, exploring oven-bake methods, and perfecting the art of flavorful crusts. Make every meal an opportunity to refine your craft and savor the rewards.

Categorized in:

Costco Meals