Perfect Fillet Steak

Perfect Fillet Steak

Perfect Fillet Steak

Learn how to cook tender, buttery fillet steak with confidence every time

Fillet steak is one of the most prized cuts of British beef, known for its exceptional tenderness and delicate flavour. With very little effort and just a handful of quality ingredients, it's easy to create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.

Unlike richer cuts such as ribeye, fillet steak is naturally lean and incredibly tender, making it perfect for special occasions, date nights or simply treating yourself to an outstanding steak dinner.

At Flatts Farm in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, we believe quality beef deserves simple cooking. A hot pan, good seasoning and careful resting allow the natural flavour of the steak to shine without unnecessary fuss.

Whether you prefer your fillet steak rare, medium-rare or medium, this simple step-by-step guide will help you achieve perfect results every time.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 6–10 minutes

Serves: 2 people

Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

  • 2 Flatts Farm Fillet Steaks (200–250g each)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 40g unsalted butter

  • 2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed

  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme

  • Sea salt

  • Freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Heavy frying pan or cast iron skillet

  • Tongs

  • Spoon

  • Meat thermometer (recommended)

Method

Step 1

Remove the fillet steaks from the fridge around 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature.

Pat dry thoroughly before seasoning generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2

Heat a heavy frying pan until extremely hot before adding the olive oil.

Place the steaks into the pan and avoid moving them until a rich golden crust develops.

Step 3

Turn the steaks before adding the butter, garlic and thyme.

Tilt the pan slightly and continuously spoon the foaming butter over the steaks for the remainder of the cooking time.

Step 4

Cook using the following guide:

  • Rare: 2–3 minutes per side

  • Medium Rare: 3–4 minutes per side

  • Medium: 4–5 minutes per side

For best results, use a meat thermometer:

  • Rare – 52°C

  • Medium Rare – 57°C

  • Medium – 63°C

Step 5

Transfer the steaks onto a warm plate.

Loosely cover with foil and allow them to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Flatts Farm Tips

  • Bring the steak to room temperature before cooking.

  • Resist the temptation to keep turning the steak.

  • Resting is essential for a juicy fillet.

  • Finish with flaky sea salt immediately before serving.

  • A simple peppercorn or red wine sauce complements fillet beautifully.

What to Serve With

Perfect alongside:

  • Dauphinoise potatoes

  • Triple-cooked chips

  • Tenderstem broccoli

  • Garlic butter mushrooms

  • Peppercorn sauce

  • Rocket and Parmesan salad

Storage & Reheating

Fillet steak is always best enjoyed freshly cooked.

  • Fridge: Up to 2 days.

  • Reheating: Warm gently to avoid overcooking.

  • Alternative: Slice thinly for steak sandwiches or salads.

From the Farm

Fillet comes from a muscle that does very little work during the animal's life, which is why it's renowned for its exceptional tenderness. It's one of the leanest steak cuts available, offering a delicate texture that's perfect for quick cooking.

At Flatts Farm, every fillet steak is carefully prepared to showcase the quality of our British beef. With simple cooking and careful attention to detail, it's a cut that turns any meal into something special.

Cook with Flatts Farm Beef

Our Fillet Steaks are expertly prepared, individually frozen and ready to enjoy whenever the occasion calls for something special.

Raised in the Yorkshire Dales and supplied directly from our farm, they're a true celebration of quality British beef.