Beef Tenderloin Roast Recipe

Beef Tenderloin Roast is a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth cut of beef that’s perfect for special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or celebrating a holiday, this recipe ensures a perfectly cooked tenderloin every time. Featuring a rich garlic herb butter that infuses the meat with exceptional flavor, this roast is surprisingly easy to prepare while delivering restaurant-quality results. Let’s dive into the details of how you can make this delicious roast and impress your guests!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe guarantees an incredibly tender and flavorful roast by focusing on three key techniques:

1. Proper seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper enhances the natural flavors of the beef.
2. Searing the meat on all sides ensures a beautiful crust that locks in the juices.
3. Roasting with garlic herb butter provides the tenderloin with a rich, aromatic flavor and keeps it juicy.

Now let’s get started!

Ingredients for Beef Tenderloin Roast

For the Beef Tenderloin:

• 1 center-cut beef tenderloin roast (4 to 4 ½ pounds), trimmed and tied
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or any high-heat oil like grapeseed or vegetable oil)

For the Garlic Herb Butter:

• 6 tablespoons softened butter
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary leaves
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme leaves

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Cast iron skillet (or any oven-safe skillet)
• Meat thermometer (probe thermometer recommended)
• Sharp knife
• Paper towels
• Cooking twine (if the tenderloin isn’t pre-tied)
• Small bowl for mixing the herb butter
• Cutting board

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing the Beef Tenderloin Roast

1. Bring Beef to Room Temperature

Remove the beef tenderloin from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. This ensures even cooking and helps develop a nice crust when seared.

2. Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter

In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Set this mixture aside; it will be spread over the roast just before it goes into the oven.

3. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps create a golden-brown exterior while keeping the interior juicy and tender.

4. Trim and Tie the Beef Tenderloin

If your tenderloin hasn’t already been tied by the butcher, slice it in half if needed for even cooking, and tie it with kitchen twine. This helps it retain its shape during cooking, ensuring uniformity.

5. Season the Beef

Use paper towels to blot away any excess moisture from the beef tenderloin. Then season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

6. Sear the Tenderloin

Heat the avocado oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil begins to shimmer, add the beef tenderloin and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms. This should take about 10 minutes total.

7. Roast the Beef Tenderloin

Once the beef is seared, slather the top with the garlic herb butter mixture. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast if using a probe. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness:

• 120°F (49°C) for rare
• 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare
• 140°F (60°C) for medium

8. Rest the Beef

Remove the beef tenderloin from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This step is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful meat.

9. Slice and Serve

Remove the kitchen twine and slice the beef into 1-inch thick pieces. Serve immediately, optionally with a horseradish sauce or your favorite sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the rest period: Allowing the beef to rest after roasting ensures the juices stay in the meat, keeping it moist.
• Not using a meat thermometer: This ensures that your roast is cooked to your desired doneness and avoids overcooking.
• Under-seasoning: Be generous with your seasoning—especially with such a large cut of meat, proper seasoning is essential for flavor.

Presentation and Serving Tips

For an elegant presentation, arrange the sliced tenderloin on a platter, garnished with fresh sprigs of rosemary and thyme. You can also drizzle any leftover garlic butter or pan juices over the slices for extra flavor. Serve alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, wrap the beef tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the slices gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven, covered with foil, until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the meat.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover beef tenderloin by wrapping it in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

• Herb substitutions: Swap the rosemary and thyme for other fresh herbs like tarragon, sage, or parsley to change the flavor profile.
• Butter alternatives: For a richer flavor, you can use a mixture of butter and olive oil.
• Add a crust: For a more textured roast, coat the tenderloin with a mustard or breadcrumb crust before searing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can sear the beef and prepare the garlic herb butter in advance. Store the seared beef in the fridge, then apply the butter and roast it just before serving.

How do I know when my beef tenderloin is perfectly cooked?

Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). Remember, the temperature will rise by a few degrees as it rests.

Can I cook this on the grill?

Yes, you can sear the beef on a hot grill and then move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking. The temperature guidelines remain the same.

Beef Tenderloin Roast Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality meat from a reputable butcher for the best results.
• Make sure your skillet is properly preheated before searing the tenderloin to get a great crust.
• Don’t rush the resting process—it’s crucial for juicy meat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this beef tenderloin with side dishes like roasted asparagus, buttery mashed potatoes, or a refreshing mixed green salad. You can also serve it with sauces like horseradish cream or a simple au jus.

Conclusion

This Beef Tenderloin Roast Recipe is the perfect way to make an impressive, restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. The tenderloin is juicy and packed with flavor, thanks to the garlic herb butter, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a holiday meal, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family! If you enjoyed this post, make sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!

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