Now that we are all recovering from great holiday celebrations, I am still lusting over one of my favorite gifts– The All-Clad d5 Brushed Stainless-Steel Fry Pan. I know, I know how exciting could a new frying pan be?! But, I am telling you this is such a valuable tool to have in the kitchen (and I may just be that much of a domesticated nerd?!).

Although it is quite an investment, when establishing your arsenal of kitchen tools– purchasing higher quality “pieces” allow you to take your home cooking to the next level. Over the years things that have found their way into my kitchen include the Le Creuset Signature Round Dutch Oven and JA Henckel Knives set. Now I get to include the All-Clad fry pan.

It holds heat evenly and wonderfuly. I am so excited to experiment more with different recipes and will be sure to share them with you all as I develop them. To kick things off, last night I made a simple pepper encrusted filet of beef with melted blue cheese. It was fabulous!

{Drizzle filet with extra virgin olive oil, season well with salt, encrust in ground black pepper by pressing each side of the steak in a dish of pepper and press firmly into the steak. Cook over medium-high (or medium if using the d5) for 4 minutes per side (for medium-rare) and ensure a good sear has developed. Transfer steaks to a 375 degree oven to finish cooking for 4-5 minutes, add blue cheese last two minutes on top of steak. Let rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. I served this steak with sautéed spinach and mushrooms… Enjoy!!}

What would you like to add to your kitchen “collection”?