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Filet Mignon with Garlic Shrimp Cream Sauce

by

 A Decadent Culinary Delight

There are few dishes that speak of elegance, sophistication, and sheer indulgence like Filet Mignon with Garlic Shrimp Cream Sauce. This luxurious dish is perfect for any special occasion, a romantic dinner, or a celebration that deserves a memorable meal. The tender, juicy filet mignon paired with the rich, creamy shrimp sauce is a match made in culinary heaven, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite of food lovers worldwide. Let’s take a journey through this exceptional recipe, which will make your taste buds dance with joy.

The Story Behind Filet Mignon with Garlic Shrimp Cream Sauce

Filet mignon is known for being one of the most tender cuts of beef, and when cooked just right, it practically melts in your mouth. It’s no wonder why it’s often served in fine dining restaurants. Paired with shrimp — a seafood delicacy beloved around the globe — the dish is a union of flavors and textures that complement each other perfectly. Add a rich, garlic cream sauce to elevate the experience, and you have a truly indulgent dish that captures the essence of fine dining right in your own home.

But while filet mignon with shrimp is undoubtedly delicious, there’s an added twist — the garlic shrimp cream sauce. This sauce takes the dish from great to outstanding. The shrimp, infused with garlic and cream, creates a velvety texture that clings to the meat, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that every bite promises to be more delicious than the last.

Full Ingredient List

For the Filet Mignon:

  • 4 filet mignon steaks (6 oz each)

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for richer flavor)

  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

For the Garlic Shrimp Cream Sauce:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 5 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)

  • 1 cup heavy cream (use coconut cream for a dairy-free option)

  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Filet Mignon

  1. Season the Steaks: Begin by seasoning your filet mignon steaks generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper on both sides. You can add a sprinkle of fresh thyme if desired, but this is optional.

  2. Sear the Filet: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or butter, if preferred) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, place the steaks in the skillet. Let them sear without moving them for about 4-5 minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms.

  3. Flip and Cook to Desired Doneness: Flip the steaks and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C); for medium, cook until the temperature reaches 140°F (60°C), and for well-done, cook until it reaches 160°F (71°C). Adjust the cooking time based on your desired level of doneness.

  4. Rest the Steaks: Once your steaks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the pan and set them aside to rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy filet.

Step 2: Cooking the Garlic Shrimp

  1. Sauté the Shrimp: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

  2. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Making the Garlic Shrimp Cream Sauce

  1. Deglaze the Pan: Add 1/2 cup of white wine (or chicken broth) to the pan to deglaze. Scrape up any brown bits left from the steak and shrimp to incorporate all the flavors into the sauce.

  2. Add the Cream: Reduce the heat to low, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and freshly chopped parsley, and stir to combine.

  3. Finish the Sauce: For an extra creamy touch, add 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese if desired. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, making it even richer and more flavorful. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

  4. Return the Shrimp: Once the sauce is thick and creamy, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss them gently in the sauce to coat them evenly.

Step 4: Plating the Dish

  1. Serve the Filet Mignon: Place each filet mignon steak on a plate and spoon a generous amount of the garlic shrimp cream sauce over the top. You can garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and thyme leaves for a burst of color and extra flavor.

  2. Optional Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad to balance the richness of the filet and shrimp. The creamy sauce can also be served over pasta for an added touch of indulgence.

Tips for Success

  • Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: For the perfect sear on the steak, a cast-iron skillet works wonders, as it retains heat and ensures even cooking.

  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be mindful not to overcook them. They should be pink and opaque, but still tender.

  • Rest the Steak: Resting the steak before serving is key to preserving its juiciness. It allows the juices to redistribute inside the meat.

  • Customize the Sauce: If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic shrimp sauce. Alternatively, for a richer flavor, try using heavy cream mixed with a bit of cream cheese.

Variations

  1. Vegan: To make this dish vegan, substitute the filet mignon with a plant-based steak such as seitan or a thick portobello mushroom cap. For the shrimp, use vegan shrimp or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based butter.

  2. Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, so just make sure the broth or wine used in the sauce is gluten-free. Pair with gluten-free sides, like quinoa or roasted potatoes.

  3. High-Protein: For a high-protein version, consider pairing the filet mignon with grilled chicken breast or a protein-packed side like a quinoa salad with chickpeas.

Serving Suggestions

  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect side to soak up the rich garlic shrimp sauce.

  • Roasted Asparagus: A light, crunchy vegetable like roasted asparagus complements the richness of the filet mignon and shrimp.

  • Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread is ideal for mopping up any extra sauce on your plate.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 650 kcal

  • Protein: 45g

  • Fat: 40g

  • Carbohydrates: 12g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 4g

Storage Guide

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Freezing: The sauce and shrimp can be frozen, but the texture of the shrimp may change once thawed. To freeze, store the shrimp and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.

  • Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little bit of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Conclusion

Filet Mignon with Garlic Shrimp Cream Sauce is more than just a meal — it’s an experience. The combination of perfectly seared steak and succulent shrimp drenched in a rich garlic cream sauce creates a dish that will delight anyone lucky enough to enjoy it. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or treating yourself to a gourmet dinner at home, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it tonight and savor every bite of this indulgent, flavorful masterpiece!