Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe Chop House Ann ArborOscar Style Recipe

Oscar Style Recipe

Time55m
Serves4

Make Oscar Style Recipe in just 55m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Pan-Seared Filets

Method

Pan-Seared Filets

  1. 1

    Bring to room temperature & season

    Remove the filets from the refrigerator 30–40 minutes before cooking so they come close to room temperature. Pat dry with paper towels. Season all sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

  2. 2

    Preheat skillet

    Place a heavy cast-iron skillet or stainless-steel pan over medium-high heat until very hot, about 4–5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Sear the filets

    Add vegetable oil to the hot skillet and swirl to coat. Add the filets (do not overcrowd the pan) and sear, undisturbed, 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare depending on thickness. Add butter, smashed garlic, and thyme to the pan during the last minute. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the filets (basting) to build flavor.

  4. 4

    Finish & rest

    If filets are thick and need more cooking, transfer the skillet to a 400°F/200°C oven for 3–5 minutes until internal temp reaches 125–130°F for medium-rare. Remove filets to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil; rest 6–8 minutes before topping.

Crab-Mornay Topping

  1. 5

    Make a roux

    In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter until foamy. Add 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes until the raw flour taste cooks off but before it browns.

  2. 6

    Add milk to form béchamel

    Slowly whisk in 1 cup whole milk a little at a time, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sauce thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency (about 3–5 minutes).

  3. 7

    Season and add cheese

    Reduce heat to low. Whisk in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional hot sauce. Add grated Gruyère in two additions, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Stir in Parmesan and remove from heat.

  4. 8

    Fold in crab & chives

    Gently fold the lump crab meat and chopped chives into the Mornay sauce, taking care not to break up the lumps of crab. Taste and adjust seasoning. Keep the mixture warm; do not boil once crab is added to avoid toughening.

  5. 9

    Optional broil finish

    If you prefer a lightly browned topping, spoon the crab-Mornay over the rested filets, sprinkle a light dusting of additional Gruyère or Parmesan, and place under a preheated broiler for 1–2 minutes until golden. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Assembly & Garnish

  1. 10

    Prepare asparagus

    Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss trimmed asparagus with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast 8–10 minutes until tender-crisp and bright green. Keep warm.

  2. 11

    Assemble Oscar Style

    Place one rested filet on each warmed plate. Spoon 2 oz (approximately) of the warm crab-Mornay over each filet, allowing some crab to sit on top. Arrange 3 asparagus spears alongside each steak. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a few extra chopped chives.

  3. 12

    Serve

    Serve immediately while the steak is warm and the crab mixture is creamy. Recommend pairing with roasted potatoes or a simple green salad.

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