If you’re craving a perfectly cooked 6 oz filet mignon but don’t want to use the oven, you’re in the right place. Cooking this tender, juicy steak in a cast iron skillet can give you amazing results—fast and simple.
But timing is everything. Get it wrong, and you could end up with a steak that’s overcooked or underdone. You’ll discover exactly how long to cook your filet mignon in cast iron without an oven, so every bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Keep reading to master the method that makes your steak dinner a guaranteed success.
Choosing The Right Filet Mignon
Filet mignon is a tender and lean cut of beef. Choosing the right piece affects taste and cooking time.
For a 6 oz filet mignon cooked in a cast iron pan without an oven, select a cut that cooks evenly.
Selecting A Quality Cut
Look for a filet mignon with a bright red color and fine texture. Avoid cuts with brown spots or dryness.
Choose a steak about 1.5 to 2 inches thick. This thickness cooks well in a cast iron pan without drying out.
- Bright red color means fresh meat
- Fine grain texture is more tender
- Even thickness helps with uniform cooking
- Fat marbling adds flavor and juiciness
Preparing The Steak
Remove the filet mignon from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper for simple flavor.
- Let steak reach room temperature
- Dry surface improves searing
- Use coarse salt and fresh pepper
- Season just before cooking
Credit: onestophalal.com
Preparing Your Cast Iron Skillet
Cooking a 6 oz filet mignon in a cast iron skillet without an oven needs the right prep. Getting the skillet ready helps you cook evenly and get a good sear.
A well-prepared skillet stops the steak from sticking. It also makes cleaning easier after cooking.
Seasoning The Pan
Seasoning means coating your cast iron with oil and heating it. This process creates a smooth, non-stick surface on the skillet.
Good seasoning improves flavor and protects the pan from rust. You can season your pan at home before cooking your steak.
- Wash the pan with warm water and dry it well.
- Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or flaxseed oil all over the pan.
- Heat the pan on medium heat for 10 minutes or until it smokes slightly.
- Turn off the heat and let the pan cool before storing.
Preheating Tips
Preheating the cast iron skillet is key to a perfect sear on your filet mignon. It helps cook the steak evenly without sticking.
Start heating the pan on medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes. The pan should be hot but not smoking.
- Test heat by sprinkling a few drops of water on the pan. They should dance and evaporate quickly.
- Use a little oil with a high smoke point, like canola or grapeseed oil.
- Spread the oil evenly and let it heat until it shimmers before adding the steak.
Searing Without An Oven
Cooking a 6 oz filet mignon in a cast iron pan can be done without an oven. Searing the steak properly locks in flavor and juices.
This method focuses on using the stovetop alone to get a perfect crust and tender inside.
Ideal Heat Settings
Set the stove to medium-high heat to start. This heat helps create a good sear without burning the meat.
After the initial sear, lower the heat to medium. This cooks the steak evenly inside without overcooking the outside.
- Start with medium-high heat for searing
- Reduce to medium heat to cook through
- Use a cast iron pan for even heat distribution
Searing Techniques
Dry the steak with paper towels before cooking. This helps get a better crust on the meat.
Place the steak in the hot pan without moving it. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Preheat the cast iron pan well
- Pat the steak dry to remove moisture
- Do not move the steak while searing
- Sear each side for 3 to 4 minutes
- Use tongs to flip the steak gently
Credit: onestophalal.com
Cook Time Guidelines
Cooking a 6 oz filet mignon in a cast iron skillet without an oven needs careful timing. Proper cook times help get the steak to your preferred doneness.
This guide shares cook times for different doneness levels and tips on adjusting for steak thickness.
Rare To Well-done Timing
Cook time changes with how rare or well-done you want your filet mignon. Use shorter times for rare and longer for well-done.
- Rare: 2 minutes per side
- Medium rare: 3 minutes per side
- Medium: 4 minutes per side
- Medium well: 5 minutes per side
- Well done: 6 minutes per side
Let the steak rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to keep juices inside.
Adjusting For Thickness
Thicker steaks need more cooking time. Thinner steaks need less. Adjust cook times based on thickness.
| Steak Thickness | Adjust Cook Time |
|---|---|
| 1 inch | Use times listed above |
| 1.5 inches | Add 1-2 minutes per side |
| 0.5 inch | Reduce 1-2 minutes per side |
Use a meat thermometer to check temperature for best results.
Resting And Serving
Cooking a 6 oz filet mignon in a cast iron pan without an oven needs care after cooking. Resting and serving the steak properly helps keep it juicy and tasty.
Taking time to rest the steak lets the juices spread inside. Serving it right makes the meal more enjoyable.
Importance Of Resting
Resting a filet mignon after cooking is very important. It helps the juices stay inside the meat instead of spilling out.
Resting also makes the steak more tender and flavorful. Let the steak rest for about 5 minutes on a warm plate.
- Juices move back into the meat fibers
- Steak stays moist and tender
- Steak finishes cooking evenly
- Easy to cut without losing juice
Serving Suggestions
Serve your filet mignon simply to enjoy its rich flavor. Add a small amount of butter or herbs on top for extra taste.
Pair the steak with light sides that balance the meal. Vegetables or a fresh salad work well.
- Top with garlic butter or fresh herbs
- Serve with steamed vegetables like asparagus
- Try a side salad with lemon dressing
- Use a warm plate to keep steak hot
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Cooking a 6 oz filet mignon in a cast iron pan without an oven can be tricky. Some common problems may happen during cooking.
This guide helps you fix issues like overcooking and sticking. Follow these tips for better results.
Avoiding Overcooking
Filet mignon cooks fast because it is small and tender. Overcooking makes it dry and tough.
Use a timer and cook on medium-high heat. Check the steak often to keep it juicy.
- Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes
- Use a meat thermometer; 130°F is medium-rare
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before cutting
Handling Sticking Problems
Filet mignon can stick to cast iron if the pan is not ready. This can tear the steak and ruin its texture.
Make sure the pan is hot and well-oiled before adding the steak. Avoid moving the steak too soon.
- Preheat the pan for 5 minutes on medium-high heat
- Add a small amount of high-smoke oil like canola or avocado oil
- Place the steak gently and let it sear without moving for 2-3 minutes
- Use a thin spatula to lift the steak when it releases easily
Credit: bakeitwithlove.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long To Cook 6 Oz Filet Mignon?
Cook a 6 oz filet mignon in a cast iron skillet for 4-5 minutes per side. This timing achieves a medium-rare doneness, ensuring a juicy and tender steak. Always let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavor.
Can I Use Cast Iron Only For Cooking?
Yes, a cast iron skillet is perfect for cooking a 6 oz filet mignon. It provides even heat distribution and excellent searing. No oven is necessary, making it a convenient option for quick meals. The skillet’s heat retention ensures a perfectly cooked steak every time.
What Temperature For Cast Iron Skillet?
Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s very hot, around 400°F. This temperature ensures a great sear on your filet mignon. A hot skillet locks in the juices, creating a flavorful crust. Use a thermometer to check doneness, aiming for 130°F for medium-rare.
Do I Need Oil For Cast Iron Cooking?
Yes, use a high smoke point oil like canola or grapeseed. Lightly coat the skillet to prevent sticking and enhance searing. This helps achieve a rich, golden crust. Oil also adds flavor and ensures even cooking, making your filet mignon tender and delicious.
Conclusion
Cooking a 6 oz filet mignon in a cast iron pan without an oven is simple. Just follow the right cook time and heat settings. This method gives a juicy and tender steak every time. It saves you from needing extra tools or appliances.
Try this easy way to enjoy a perfect filet mignon at home. Enjoy your meal with confidence and great taste.