Decadent Filet of Beef with Rich Port-Madeira Sauce

Filet of Beef with Port or Madeira Sauce

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Category: Meat
Servings: 8
Description: This filet of beef recipe, generously provided by my ex-mother-in-law, is the epitome of decadence and flavor. It transforms a simple beef tenderloin into a gourmet delight that’s perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party. I often use this recipe when beef tenderloin is on sale, and it’s always a hit. 🍽️✨

Ingredients:

• 1 filet of beef
• 6 ounces mushrooms
• 7 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons shallots or onions, finely chopped
• 1 cup port wine
• 1/2 cup Madeira wine
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 can beef gravy

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

   • In a roasting pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is sizzling, add the filet of beef to the pan. Sear the beef on all sides until it’s lightly browned.
   • Season the beef generously with salt and pepper. After searing, cover the meat loosely with foil and set it aside. Allow it to rest for up to 30 minutes before serving.

2. Prepare the Mushrooms and Sauce:

   • While the beef is resting, wash, dry, and slice the mushrooms. Peel the shallots or onions and chop enough to measure 2 tablespoons.
   • In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender.
   • Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then add the chopped shallots or onions. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the liquid from the mushrooms has reduced.

3. Make the Sauce:

   • Pour in the beef gravy and 1/2 cup of port wine. Stir well to combine, and cook the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through.
   • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Set the sauce aside.

4. Cook the Beef:

   • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the seared filet of beef in the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes for rare doneness. To check for doneness, pierce the center of the meat with a fork. If the juices are red, the beef is rare; if pink, it’s medium. Avoid overcooking to ensure a tender and juicy result.

5. Finish the Sauce:

   • Once the beef is done, transfer it to a serving dish and keep it warm while you finish the sauce. Pour off most of the fat from the roasting pan.
   • Add the mushroom sauce to the roasting pan over medium heat. Stir and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and stir until the butter is barely melted and the sauce is well combined.

6. Serve:

   • Spoon some of the sauce over the sliced beef and serve the remainder on the side. This rich and flavorful sauce is the perfect accompaniment to the tender filet of beef.

Enjoy your decadent Filet of Beef with Port or Madeira Sauce, a dish that brings a touch of elegance and indulgence to any occasion. 🍷🥩