Filet Mignon Crostini Appetizers

Filet Mignon Crostini appetizers have become a staple in our home for gatherings, big or small. There’s just something undeniably special about the combination of tender, melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon paired with the crispiness of toasted crostini. The first time I made these, it was for a casual get-together with friends, and they vanished within minutes! My husband declared them “restaurant-quality,” and even my kids, usually picky eaters, couldn’t get enough. The elegance of the presentation belies how surprisingly simple they are to prepare, making them perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich flavors and satisfying textures make these crostini a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I’m excited to share my go-to recipe with you, so you can experience the delight of these gourmet bites in your own home.

Ingredients for Filet Mignon Crostini Appetizers

• Filet Mignon: 1 pound, center-cut, about 1 inch thick. This is the star of the show; choose high-quality beef for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Baguette: 1 French baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds. The baguette provides a sturdy and flavorful base for the toppings.
• Olive Oil: ¼ cup, extra virgin, divided. Used for toasting the crostini and searing the filet mignon, adding richness and flavor.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Infuses the olive oil and filet mignon with a savory and aromatic note.
• Fresh Thyme: 1 tablespoon, chopped. Adds an herbaceous and earthy element that complements the beef beautifully.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, unsalted. Used for searing the filet mignon, contributing to a rich, browned crust and enhanced flavor.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, kosher salt, or to taste. Essential for seasoning both the filet mignon and the crostini, enhancing all the flavors.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Adds a touch of spice and depth to the dish.
• Balsamic Glaze: ¼ cup, store-bought or homemade. Provides a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the savory beef, and a beautiful visual finish.
• Arugula: 2 cups, fresh, baby arugula. Adds a peppery bite and fresh green element, balancing the richness of the beef and crostini.
• Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated, fresh Parmesan. Adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich finish to the appetizers. (Optional, but highly recommended)

Instructions: Crafting Perfect Filet Mignon Crostini

1. Prepare the Filet Mignon: Begin by patting the filet mignon dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear. Season generously on all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic and chopped fresh thyme. Rub this mixture evenly over the filet mignon. Let the seasoned filet mignon rest at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the meat to come closer to room temperature, promoting more even cooking.
2. Toast the Crostini: While the filet mignon rests, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush both sides of the baguette slices with olive oil. Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove the crostini from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Sear the Filet Mignon: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Ensure the pan is hot before adding the meat; you should see a shimmer of heat in the oil and butter. Carefully place the seasoned filet mignon in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for accuracy. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C), for medium 135-140°F (57-60°C), and for medium-well 140-145°F (60-63°C).
4. Rest the Filet Mignon: Once seared to your liking, remove the filet mignon from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. Resting is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful filet mignon.
5. Slice the Filet Mignon: After resting, thinly slice the filet mignon against the grain. Slicing against the grain ensures maximum tenderness in each bite. Aim for slices about ¼ inch thick.
6. Assemble the Crostini: Now it’s time to assemble your delicious appetizers. Take the toasted crostini and place a small bed of fresh arugula on top of each slice. Arrange 1-2 slices of the thinly sliced filet mignon over the arugula on each crostini.
7. Finish and Serve: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the filet mignon on each crostini. If desired, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the balsamic glaze. Serve immediately and enjoy the delectable combination of flavors and textures.

Nutrition Facts for Filet Mignon Crostini Appetizers

Servings: Approximately 20-24 crostini appetizers
Calories Per Serving (per crostini, estimated): Approximately 150-200 calories

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands, specific cuts of meat, and portion sizes.)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 10g

Preparation Time: From Prep to Platter

• Prep Time: 25 minutes (includes ingredient preparation and filet mignon resting time)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes (includes toasting crostini and searing filet mignon)
• Total Time: 45 minutes (from start to finish, ready to serve)

These Filet Mignon Crostini appetizers are relatively quick to prepare, especially considering the elegant and impressive result. The majority of the time is spent in active cooking and assembly, making them a feasible option even when time is a bit limited.

How to Serve Filet Mignon Crostini Appetizers

These versatile appetizers can be served in a variety of ways to suit different occasions and preferences. Here are some ideas for serving your Filet Mignon Crostini:

• Elegant Platter: Arrange the crostini on a beautiful serving platter for a visually appealing presentation. Garnish the platter with extra arugula sprigs, fresh thyme, or rosemary for an extra touch of elegance.
• Passed Appetizers: For cocktail parties or gatherings where guests are mingling, these crostini are perfect as passed appetizers. Arrange them on trays and have servers circulate among your guests.
• Buffet Style: If you are hosting a larger buffet-style event, set up a station with the crostini, sliced filet mignon, arugula, balsamic glaze, and Parmesan cheese. Allow guests to assemble their own crostini for a fun and interactive element.
• Individual Plates: For a more formal dinner party, you can serve a few crostini on individual appetizer plates as a starter before the main course.
• Wine Pairing: These crostini pair wonderfully with red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Pinot Noir. The richness of the filet mignon complements the tannins in these wines. For a lighter option, consider a crisp Rosé.
• Pre-Dinner Nibbles: Serve these crostini as delicious pre-dinner nibbles while guests are arriving and enjoying drinks. They are substantial enough to satisfy hunger without being too filling before a meal.
• Holiday Appetizer: Filet Mignon Crostini are a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve. Their sophisticated flavor and presentation make them a festive addition to any holiday appetizer spread.
• Game Day Snack (Elevated): While typically associated with more casual fare, these crostini can be a surprisingly delightful and elevated game day snack for those looking to impress.

Additional Tips for Perfect Filet Mignon Crostini

To ensure your Filet Mignon Crostini are absolutely perfect every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

1. Quality of Filet Mignon Matters: Invest in good quality, center-cut filet mignon. Since filet mignon is the star ingredient, using high-quality beef will make a noticeable difference in the flavor and tenderness of the appetizers. Look for beef that is well-marbled for enhanced flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Filet Mignon: Filet mignon is best served medium-rare to medium to maintain its tenderness. Overcooking will make it tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking and remove it from the heat when it reaches your desired internal temperature. Remember it will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
3. Proper Searing Technique: Achieving a good sear on the filet mignon is crucial for developing flavor and texture. Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the meat, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve a beautiful brown crust.
4. Resting is Non-Negotiable: Do not skip the resting step! Resting the filet mignon after searing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing.
5. Fresh Ingredients are Key: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Fresh herbs, arugula, and Parmesan cheese will elevate the flavors of the crostini and make them truly exceptional.
6. Customize Your Toppings: While balsamic glaze and Parmesan are classic pairings, feel free to customize your toppings to your liking. Consider adding a dollop of creamy goat cheese, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, a drizzle of truffle oil, or a touch of fig jam for different flavor profiles.
7. Make Ahead Components: You can prepare certain components of the crostini ahead of time to save time on the day of serving. The crostini can be toasted a few hours in advance and stored in an airtight container. The filet mignon can be seared and sliced ahead of time as well and kept refrigerated. However, for the best quality, assemble the crostini shortly before serving.
8. Variations for Dietary Needs: To make these crostini gluten-free, use gluten-free baguette slices or even sturdy gluten-free crackers. For a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. You can also easily adapt the recipe to be vegetarian by substituting the filet mignon with grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Filet Mignon Crostini

Q1: Can I make Filet Mignon Crostini ahead of time?

A: While it’s best to assemble the crostini just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy, you can prepare components in advance. The crostini can be toasted a few hours ahead and stored in an airtight container. You can also sear and slice the filet mignon earlier in the day and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the filet mignon gently (optional, they are also great at room temperature) and assemble the crostini.

Q2: What if I don’t have fresh thyme? Can I use dried thyme?

A: Yes, you can use dried thyme if you don’t have fresh. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried thyme in place of 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme. Keep in mind that fresh herbs generally have a brighter flavor, but dried thyme will still work well. You could also consider using other fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano as alternatives.

Q3: Can I use a different type of bread instead of a baguette for the crostini?

A: Absolutely! While a baguette is classic for crostini, you can use other types of bread. Sliced sourdough, ciabatta, or even a hearty Italian loaf would work well. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the toppings and slice it into roughly ½-inch thick rounds. You can also use pre-made crostini crackers for convenience.

Q4: How do I store leftover Filet Mignon Crostini?

A: It’s best to enjoy Filet Mignon Crostini fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store the components separately. Store the toasted crostini in an airtight container at room temperature. Store the sliced filet mignon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reassemble just before serving, although the crostini will be softer and the filet mignon best reheated gently.

Q5: Can I grill the filet mignon instead of searing it in a skillet?

A: Yes, grilling filet mignon is a fantastic option and will impart a smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the seasoned filet mignon for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness. Let it rest as instructed before slicing and assembling the crostini.

Q6: What are some other topping ideas besides balsamic glaze and Parmesan cheese?

A: Get creative with your toppings! Here are a few ideas:
* Goat Cheese and Fig Jam: Creamy goat cheese and sweet fig jam create a delightful sweet and savory combination.
* Horseradish Cream Sauce: For a zesty kick, drizzle with a horseradish cream sauce.
* Pesto and Sun-dried Tomatoes: A vibrant pesto and sun-dried tomatoes offer a Mediterranean twist.
* Caramelized Onions and Blue Cheese: Sweet caramelized onions and tangy blue cheese create a rich and complex flavor.
* Mushroom Duxelles: Sautéed mushrooms with shallots and herbs provide an earthy and elegant topping.

Q7: Can I make these crostini vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can easily make these crostini vegetarian. Substitute the filet mignon with grilled portobello mushrooms, roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, or even thick slices of grilled halloumi cheese. Adjust seasonings and toppings to complement your vegetarian substitution.

Q8: How can I ensure my crostini are perfectly crispy?

A: To achieve perfectly crispy crostini, slice the baguette to a consistent ½-inch thickness. Brush both sides generously with olive oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until lightly golden and crisp, usually around 8-10 minutes. Watch them carefully to prevent burning. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack to maintain their crispness. Store in an airtight container if making ahead.

Print