Sesame-Crusted Filet Mignon

Name: Sesame-Crusted Filet Mignon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each); 3 tablespoons sesame seeds (white and black, if desired); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I love preparing Sesame-Crusted Filet Mignon for special occasions or when I want to impress my family with gourmet cooking at home. This dish starts with a perfectly seared filet mignon, coated with nutty sesame seeds that enhance its flavor. The balance of tenderness from the steak and the crunch from the sesame creates a delightful experience with every bite. It’s rich, savory, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Let me walk you through this delicious journey of flavors!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-22T11:34:28.772Z

Every time I make Sesame-Crusted Filet Mignon, I find myself captivated by the blend of flavors and textures. I remember the first time I tried this recipe—it was at a fine dining restaurant. The sear on the meat, combined with the slightly nutty flavor of sesame, felt like a celebration on my taste buds. I’ve since mastered the technique to recreate that experience in my own kitchen.

One helpful tip I’ve learned over time is to let the filet rest after searing, which ensures that the juices remain locked in for a tender bite. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables, bringing a healthy balance to the rich filet. I hope you give it a try!

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        The rich and nutty flavor of sesame enhances the beef beautifully.
Each bite offers a delightful crunch along with the tenderness of the filet.
Perfect for special dinners or impressing guests with your cooking skills.

      

The Importance of Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds play a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor profile of this dish. Their rich, nutty taste complements the savory flavors of the filet mignon beautifully. White sesame seeds are milder, while black sesame seeds add a deeper, earthier flavor. Using a combination of both not only adds visual appeal but also creates a more complex taste experience, perfect for a gourmet meal at home.

When pressing the steaks into the sesame seeds, be sure to apply gentle yet firm pressure, ensuring a thorough coating. This not only maximizes flavor but also contributes to the crunchy texture that makes every bite satisfying. If you're out of sesame seeds, breadcrumbs can be an alternative, though the unique flavor profile will shift.

Searing Techniques for Perfect Texture

Achieving the perfect sear is essential for ensuring a crust that locks in the steak's natural juices. Preheat your skillet until it's nearly smoking; a drop of water should sizzle and evaporate almost immediately. This high initial heat allows for browning, creating that desired golden crust. Cook the filet mignon for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan to maintain even cooking.

If you notice the sesame seeds beginning to darken too much while searing, lower the heat slightly to avoid burning them. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for about 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Allowing the steaks to rest for 5 minutes will help redistribute the juices, yielding an incredibly tender bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Sesame-Crusted Filet Mignon:

Ingredients

2 filet mignon steaks (about 6 oz each)
3 tablespoons sesame seeds (white and black, if desired)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect Sesame-Crusted Filet Mignon:

Prepare the Steaks

Season the filet mignon steaks with salt and pepper on both sides. In a shallow dish, spread the sesame seeds evenly.

Coat with Sesame

Press each steak into the sesame seeds, ensuring they are coated on all sides.

Sear the Steaks

Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting time for preferred doneness.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil until combined. Set aside.

Rest and Serve

Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with the sauce before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Sesame-Crusted Filet Mignon!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, try marinating the steaks in soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing the Sesame-Crusted Filet Mignon with a refreshing side salad or roasted seasonal vegetables balances the richness of the meat. A simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar offers a bright contrast, while grilled asparagus complements the umami depth of the steak. For a starch addition, consider creamy mashed potatoes or jasmine rice, both of which will soak up the delicious sauce effortlessly.

An added flourish could be a sprinkle of scallions or fresh herbs over the plated mignon for a pop of color and flavor. Remember that presentation can elevate your dining experience; consider slicing the filet mignon into medallions and artfully drizzling the soy sauce mixture over the top.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to prep ahead, the sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Whisking the soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil together in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a quick re-whisk before drizzling over your filet mignon, as the honey may settle at the bottom.

For the steaks, while they are best cooked fresh, you can season them and coat them in sesame seeds up to an hour in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to sear them. Just be aware that allowing them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking ensures even doneness throughout.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can use other tender cuts such as sirloin or ribeye, but cooking time may need to be adjusted.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative like tamari.

→ What can I serve with the filet mignon?

It pairs well with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple arugula salad.

→ Can I prepare the sesame seeds in advance?

Absolutely! You can toast the sesame seeds a few days ahead and store them in an airtight container.