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Ingredients
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Beef
Garlic‑Mashed Potatoes
Method
Beef
- 1
Bring steaks to room temperature and season
Remove the filet mignon from the refrigerator 30–45 minutes before cooking to come to room temperature. Pat dry with paper towels. Season all over with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, pressing gently so it adheres.
- 2
- 3
Sear steaks
Add the steaks to the hot pan without crowding. Sear undisturbed for 2.5–3 minutes to develop a deep brown crust. Flip and sear the other side 2–3 minutes. For medium-rare aim for an internal temperature of 125–130°F (52–54°C) before resting; adjust time for thickness.
- 4
Baste with butter and aromatics
Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, smashed garlic cloves, and thyme sprigs to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the steaks continuously with the melted butter and pan juices for 1–2 minutes to finish cooking and flavor the meat.
- 5
Rest steaks
Transfer steaks to a cutting board or plate and loosely tent with foil. Rest for 5–8 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. While resting, the internal temperature will rise ~5°F.
Garlic‑Mashed Potatoes
- 6
Cook garlic
Place the whole garlic cloves in a small saucepan and cover with milk (from the potato milk measurement). Gently heat over low until milk is warm and garlic softens and mellows, about 8–10 minutes. Do not boil. Keep warm.
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10
Finish and season
Stir in 2 tablespoons sour cream, the remaining 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste. If potatoes are too stiff, add up to 2–4 tablespoons additional warm milk and mix until desired creaminess is reached.
- 11
Garnish
Transfer mashed potatoes to a serving bowl, dot with a small pat of butter if desired, and sprinkle with finely chopped chives. Serve hot alongside the rested filet mignon.