Center Cut Filet from Mastro's features a tender, juicy beef filet expertly grilled to perfection, showcasing a rich, buttery flavor with a beautifully seared crust and a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Equipments
- Grill (charcoal or gas)
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Cast iron skillet (optional)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Kitchen twine (if tying the filet for uniform shape)
- Basting brush (optional)
- Plate (for resting)
- Foil (for tenting/resting)
- Oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) center-cut beef filets
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic
Ensure you use fresh, high-quality center-cut beef filets weighing around 8 ounces each for the best texture and flavor in your dish. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural taste of the filet. Incorporate aromatic herbs like fresh rosemary and thyme along with garlic to infuse the meat with a rich, savory aroma during grilling or pan-searing. Use unsalted butter and olive oil for basting to achieve a beautifully seared crust while maintaining a tender, juicy interior. Your attempt at the Center Cut Filet from Mastro's copycat menu will capture its signature melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and buttery flavor with these thoughtful ingredient choices.
Instructions
- Bring beef filets to room temperature.
- Preheat grill to high heat.
- Pat filets dry with paper towels.
- Tie filets with kitchen twine for uniform shape (if needed).
- Season filets generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.
- Brush filets lightly with olive oil.
- Place filets on the hot grill.
- Sear each side for 2-3 minutes to develop a crust.
- Lower grill heat to medium or move filets to indirect heat.
- Insert meat thermometer into the thickest part of one filet.
- Grill until internal temperature reaches desired doneness (e.g., 125°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare).
- Optional: Heat cast iron skillet on grill or stovetop.
- Add butter, rosemary, thyme, and smashed garlic cloves to skillet.
- Transfer seared filets to skillet for additional flavor.
- Baste filets with melted butter and herbs for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove filets from heat.
- Place filets on a plate and tent loosely with foil.
- Rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove kitchen twine.
- Slice with chef’s knife if desired and serve.
Substitution
Center Cut Filet from Mastro's copycat menu delivers the same tender and flavorful experience as the original, perfect for recreating fine dining at home. If a center-cut filet is unavailable, a similarly thick cut like a ribeye or sirloin can serve as a suitable substitute while adjusting cooking times accordingly. Using a cast iron skillet instead of a grill can provide an even sear and is ideal for indoor cooking, especially when finishing the filet with butter and herbs. Make sure to rest the steak for at least 5 minutes tented with foil to retain juices and ensure optimal tenderness. Your kitchen twine helps maintain the filet's uniform shape when grilling, but it can be omitted for smaller, naturally uniform cuts.
Tips
Bringing your center-cut beef filets to room temperature before grilling ensures even cooking throughout the meat. Using a meat thermometer to check internal temperature allows precise control over doneness, with 130degF recommended for medium-rare perfection. Resting your filets under foil for 5-10 minutes after grilling lets the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy. Tying the filets with kitchen twine helps maintain a uniform shape during cooking, improving overall presentation and even heat distribution.
Nutritions
Center Cut Filet from Mastro's provides a high-protein, nutrient-dense option with approximately 50 grams of protein per 8-ounce serving, essential for muscle repair and growth. The beef filet is rich in iron and zinc, vital minerals that support immune function and oxygen transport in your body. Cooking with olive oil and unsalted butter adds heart-healthy fats, enhancing flavor while contributing beneficial monounsaturated fats. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme introduce antioxidants that complement the nutrients found in the tender, juicy filet.
Storage
Store your center-cut filets wrapped loosely in foil or butcher paper to maintain moisture without suffocating the meat. Keep them refrigerated at or below 40degF and consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness. For longer storage, vacuum-sealing and freezing at 0degF will preserve flavor and tenderness for up to 6 months.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute fresh rosemary and thyme with dried Italian herbs if fresh sprigs aren't available, though fresh herbs provide a more vibrant aroma. Instead of grilling, sear the filet in a preheated cast iron skillet with butter and herbs on the stovetop for a rich crust and finish in a 400degF oven for even cooking. For added flavor, marinate the beef in a blend of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. Using a meat thermometer ensures precise doneness and prevents overcooking to preserve the filet's buttery texture.
Allergies
Center Cut Filet from Mastro's contains beef, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with red meat allergies or alpha-gal syndrome. The use of olive oil and unsalted butter may cause issues for those with specific nut or dairy allergies, respectively. Your sensitivity to garlic or herbs like rosemary and thyme should also be considered when enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
The Center Cut Filet at Mastro's restaurant is prized for its tender texture and rich, buttery flavor, achieved through careful aging and expert seasoning. This menu item offers a perfectly balanced portion, making it ideal for those seeking a high-quality steak experience without overwhelming size. Replicating this dish at home allows you to enjoy a gourmet meal tailored to your taste, using premium ingredients and precise cooking techniques. Your effort in recreating the Center Cut Filet rewards you with restaurant-quality flavor and satisfaction in a familiar setting.