This perfectly simple filet mignon recipe, comprising a few simple ingredients, will render a perfect steak every time. That steak will also pair effortlessly with your favorite side dish.

Ingredients

• 4 filet mignon steaks (6 ounces each)
• 1-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• 3/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves
• 3 fresh rosemary sprigs

Directions

1. Remove steaks from the refrigerator and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt; let stand for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until extremely hot, 4-5 minutes. Add olive oil and let heat until rippling. Pat beef dry with paper towels and season all sides with the remaining 1 teaspoon salt and pepper.
3. Place steak in skillet and cook until a golden brown crust forms, 3-4 minutes. Turn steaks to sides and cook for 1 minute, rolling as edges become brown. Turn to the uncooked side; add butter, garlic and rosemary to the pan. Cook another 3-4 minutes, until steaks spring back slightly but are soft when lightly pressed. Use a spoon to baste steaks with butter for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
4. Continue cooking to the desired degree of doneness (for medium-rare, a thermometer should read 135°; medium, 140°; medium-well, 145°). Discard garlic cloves and rosemary. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.