Known for its buttery texture and rich flavor, beef tenderloin is often considered the king of all beef cuts. When cooked right, it practically melts in your mouth and makes any dinner feel like a special occasion. This 5-star roasted beef tenderloin recipe takes a simple yet sophisticated approach, ensuring you achieve a perfectly seasoned, tender, and juicy roast every time.
1. 5-Star Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 whole beef tenderloin (3-4 pounds, trimmed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Tenderloin
Trim and tie the tenderloin: If the tenderloin hasn’t been trimmed by the butcher, remove any excess fat and silver skin (the thin membrane that can be tough when cooked). Tying the tenderloin with kitchen twine ensures that it cooks evenly and holds its shape. Tie the roast at 2-inch intervals along the length of the tenderloin.
Step 2: Season the Tenderloin
Season generously: In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the beef tenderloin, ensuring every surface is well-coated. If you want an extra layer of flavor, brush the tenderloin with Dijon mustard before applying the seasoning mix.
Let the seasoning sit: For even more flavor, allow the seasoned beef to sit for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps the seasonings penetrate the meat, enhancing its flavor.
Step 3: Sear the Tenderloin
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
Sear the beef for a crust: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef tenderloin and sear it on all sides, turning every 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
Step 4: Roast the Beef Tenderloin
Add butter for richness: After searing, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Spoon the melted butter over the tenderloin for added moisture and flavor before transferring the pan to the oven.
Roast the beef: Place the skillet with the seared tenderloin in the preheated oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 125°F (52°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the tenderloin. The temperature will continue to rise while the meat rests.
Adjust for desired doneness:
- Rare: 120°F (49°C)
- Medium-rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium-well: 145°F (63°C)
Step 5: Rest the Meat
Rest the tenderloin: Once the beef reaches your desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Slice the tenderloin: After resting, use a sharp knife to slice the beef tenderloin into ½-inch thick medallions. Arrange the slices on a serving platter.
Serve with sauces or sides: Serve the roasted beef tenderloin with your favorite sauces and other classic sides.
2. Tips for Perfect Roasted Beef Tenderloin
Use a meat thermometer: Beef tenderloin is an expensive cut, so it’s important to cook it to the perfect temperature. A meat thermometer ensures you don’t overcook or undercook the tenderloin. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat for the most accurate reading.
Sear first for flavor: Searing the beef before roasting helps develop a deep, flavorful crust. This step is essential for adding richness and texture to the tenderloin, so don’t skip it!
Rest the meat: Resting the beef after roasting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more succulent and tender. Skipping this step can cause the juices to run out when slicing, leaving you with dry meat.
Season generously: Beef tenderloin has a mild flavor compared to other cuts like ribeye or strip steak, so it benefits from a generous amount of seasoning. Don’t be shy with the salt, pepper, and herbs.
Roast at high heat: Roasting the tenderloin at a high temperature ensures the meat cooks quickly and evenly while developing a beautiful golden-brown exterior. The high heat also helps the seasoning and sear come together perfectly.
Don’t overcook: Beef tenderloin is best served medium-rare to medium. Cooking it beyond this point can cause the meat to lose its tenderness and buttery texture.
3. What to Serve with Roasted Beef Tenderloin
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a perfect pairing with beef tenderloin. Their smooth texture complements the tender meat, and they’re great for soaking up any juices or sauces.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add color and a caramelized sweetness that balances the richness of the beef.
Creamed Spinach: This classic side dish adds creaminess and a touch of earthiness that pairs nicely with the juicy beef tenderloin.
Red Wine Reduction: A simple red wine reduction sauce enhances the flavors of the beef and adds a rich, savory element to the dish.
Yorkshire Pudding: For a traditional English flair, serve the tenderloin with Yorkshire pudding. These light, fluffy pastries are perfect for soaking up the juices from the beef.
Gratin Dauphinois: For an indulgent side, serve the beef tenderloin with potato gratin. The creamy, cheesy layers of potatoes add richness and complement the tender beef.
4. Storing and Reheating Leftover
Storing: Leftover beef tenderloin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, slice the tenderloin into portions and warm them gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes.
Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the meat and make it tough. You can also reheat the slices in a skillet over low heat with a little butter, just until warmed through.
This 5-star roasted beef tenderloin recipe takes a luxurious cut of meat and turns it into an easy-to-make, show-stopping dish. With a few simple ingredients and proper cooking techniques, you can achieve a perfectly roasted beef tenderloin that’s tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
