Filet Medallions: The Ultimate Guide to a Tender Steak Experience

Steak lovers really love filet medallions. People love these small, round cuts of beef because they are tender, taste great, and look nice when served. Filet medallions are a great way to have a fine dining experience without too much trouble, whether you’re eating them at a steakhouse or making them at home. Find out everything you need to know about filet medallions, including what they are, how they compare to other cuts, the best ways to cook them, how to serve them, and how to make them taste like they came from a restaurant. 

In this article,Discover everything about filet medallions—tender, flavorful steak cuts with cooking tips, serving ideas, and restaurant-quality recipes at home.

What Are Filet Medallions?

Filet medallions are small, round pieces of beef cut from the tenderloin, which is one of the cow’s most tender parts. This muscle doesn’t get much exercise, so the meat is naturally soft, buttery, and lean.

Key Features of Filet Medallions

• Size: Usually 2–3 inches in diameter, about 1–2 inches thick.
• Texture: Extremely tender, often described as “buttery.”
• Flavor: Mild compared to fattier cuts like ribeye, but perfect for sauces and seasoning.
• Versatility: Can be grilled, pan-seared, broiled, or even wrapped in bacon.

Filet Medallions vs. Other Cuts

The size, texture, and flavor of filet medallions are what set them apart from other popular steaks.

Filet Medallions, Filet Mignon, and Ribeye

Filet mignon is a bigger steak cut from the same tenderloin, while filet medallions are smaller, bite-sized pieces that cook faster and are often served in groups. Medallions are great for controlling portions and go well with sauces.

Sirloin vs. Filet Medallions

Compared to sirloin, filet medallions are clearly better because they melt in your mouth. Sirloin is usually cheaper, but it isn’t as tender. Filet medallions cost more, but they are hard to beat when it comes to a luxurious meal.

Why Choose Filet Medallions?

Benefits at a Glance

1. Tenderness – One of the softest cuts available.
2. Quick Cooking – Small size means less time on the grill or pan.
3. Elegant Presentation – Perfect for dinner parties and special occasions.
4. Healthy Choice – Leaner than ribeye or T-bone.

How to Cook Filet Medallions the Best

There are many tasty ways to cook filet medallions, and each one brings out different tastes and textures.

Filet Medallions Grilled and Pan-Seared

Pan-searing is one of the most popular choices. To make filet medallions that are pan-seared, heat a skillet with butter or olive oil and sear the medallions for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. When you cook with garlic and rosemary.

Filet Medallions Wrapped in Bacon

You can make bacon-wrapped filet medallions for a more decadent twist. Before cooking, just wrap each medallion in a strip of bacon and hold it in place with a toothpick. You can grill or pan-sear these until the bacon is crispy and the steak is soft.

Cooking Temperatures for Filet Medallions

• Rare: 120–125°F (cool red center)
• Medium Rare: 130–135°F (warm red center)
• Medium: 140–145°F (pink center)
• Medium Well: 150–155°F (slightly pink center)
• Well Done: 160°F and above (little or no pink)

 For the best flavor and tenderness, filet medallions are usually enjoyed medium-rare.

Easy Filet Medallions

Filet medallions are one of the most tender and useful cuts of beef. They’re great for both home cooks and steak lovers. They are easy to cook in many ways, like pan-searing, grilling, or wrapping them in bacon, because they have a buttery texture and a mild flavor. 

It’s just as easy to serve filet medallions. They go great with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and creamed spinach. Try them with a mushroom cream sauce, a red wine reduction, or a peppercorn crust for something different. 

Ideas for Serving Filet Medallions

There are many classic ways to serve filet medallions that will always be in style. The steak is very tender, and the creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and creamed spinach all go well with it. A simple but tasty garlic butter sauce is another great way.

There are many fun and creative ways to serve filet medallions if you want to be more creative. For a fancy look, put them on top of a bed of risotto with mushroom cream sauce. For more flavor, serve them with a strong red wine reduction.

Tips for Perfect Filet Medallions

1. Let Them Rest – After cooking, let medallions rest 5 minutes before cutting to keep juices inside.
2. Don’t Overcook – Filet medallions are lean and can dry out quickly if cooked too long.
3. Season Simply – Salt, pepper, and butter bring out natural flavors.
4. Use Cast Iron – A cast iron skillet gives the perfect sear.
5. Add Sauce – Because filet is mild, sauces like béarnaise or mushroom gravy enhance the taste.

Filet Medallions in Restaurants

Texas Roadhouse and other steakhouses serve filet medallions on their menus. They usually come with sides like seasoned rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables. Some places also have medallions wrapped in bacon to add flavor.

If you want something fancy but not too big when you go out to eat, filet medallions are a great choice.

Filet Medallions at Home: Step-by-Step

First, dry the medallions with paper towels. Then, season both sides well with salt and pepper. Put the olive oil in a skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Put the medallions in the hot skillet and sear each side for 3 to 4 minutes, or until a golden-brown crust forms.

Take the filet medallions out of the skillet after they are done cooking and let them sit for about five minutes. This lets the juices move around, making sure that every bite is soft and tasty. Serve right away for a delicious, home-cooked steak meal that beats any steakhouse.

Nutrition Facts of Filet Medallions (Per 6 oz Serving)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: ~45g
• Fat: ~15g
• Carbs: 0g
• Iron: 15% DV

 A healthy option for those who want high protein with less fat.

FAQ’s

Conclusion

One of the most tender and fancy cuts of steak is the filet medallion. People who cook at home and people who love steakhouse food both love them because they melt in your mouth and can be used in many ways. Filet medallions always taste like they came from a restaurant, whether they are pan-seared, grilled, or wrapped in bacon. Are you ready to try them? Get some filet medallions the next time you plan a special dinner. You can make a steakhouse-worthy meal at home that will impress your family or guests.