Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsBoxcar BistroPetite Filet Recipe

Petite Filet Recipe

Inspired by Boxcar Bistro
Time50m
Serves4

Make Petite Filet Recipe in just 50m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Steak

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Bring steaks to room temperature

    Remove petite filets from refrigerator 30–40 minutes before cooking and leave uncovered or loosely tented on a plate. This ensures even cooking.

  2. 2

    Pat dry and season

    Pat both sides of each steak thoroughly with paper towel. Evenly season both sides with kosher salt (about 1/2 tsp per side per steak) and freshly ground black pepper. Let sit while you preheat the pan.

Cooking

  1. 3

    Preheat pan and sear

    Place a heavy cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan over high heat. When the pan is smoking hot (3–5 minutes), add the neutral high-heat oil and swirl to coat. Carefully place filets into the pan, leaving space between them. Sear without moving for 2–3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms.

  2. 4

    Flip and baste

    Flip each filet with tongs. Reduce heat to medium-high. Add the unsalted butter, crushed garlic cloves, thyme sprigs and rosemary (if using) to the pan. As the butter foams, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks continuously for another 2–3 minutes. Baste until the internal temperature reaches the desired doneness (see timing below).

  3. 5

    Doneness guide (internal temperature)

    Aim for the following pulled-off temperatures: rare 120°F (49°C), medium-rare 125–130°F (52–54°C), medium 135°F (57°C). For petite filets (6 oz), searing 2–3 minutes per side typically yields medium-rare depending on thickness (1.5–2 inches). Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center to confirm.

  4. 6

    Rest

    Transfer the filets to a warm plate or cutting board and tent loosely with foil. Rest for 5–7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute; internal temperature will rise 3–5°F during resting.

Finishing & Serving

  1. 7

    Finish and season

    Optionally top each filet with 1 teaspoon compound butter while resting so it melts into the steak. Sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt or finishing salt over each steak for extra flavor.

  2. 8

    Serve

    Serve each petite filet whole or sliced across the grain, with lemon wedges if desired. Pair with preferred sides (mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad).

More from Boxcar Bistro