Beef Tenderloin Roast (Step-By-Step Recipe)

If you’re looking to impress your dinner guests or simply indulge in a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth steak, beef tenderloin roast is the way to go.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey through every aspect of preparing the perfect beef tenderloin roast.

No culinary expertise required – just a passion for great food and a desire to learn!

Brief Explanation of Beef Tenderloin Roast

Let’s start at the beginning. Beef tenderloin roast, often referred to as “filet mignon” when sliced into steaks, is a culinary gem known for its exceptional tenderness and mild flavor.

This cut is derived from the tenderloin muscle located along the spine of the cow. Due to its minimal use, this muscle remains incredibly tender.

Pro Tip: If you’re wondering why it’s called “tenderloin,” it’s because this cut is incredibly tender! The term “filet mignon” itself is French and translates to “tender fillet.”

Beef Tenderloin Roast Ingredients

Before diving into the step-by-step recipe guide, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need and understand their roles in creating a mouthwatering beef tenderloin roast.

Beef Tenderloin: To prepare this dish, you’ll need a whole beef tenderloin weighing between 4 to 4 1/2 pounds. Alternatively, you can opt for two center-cut tenderloins, each weighing 2 pounds, which is also referred to as a chateaubriand cut.
Salt & Pepper: Enhance the meat’s flavor by generously seasoning it with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Avocado Oil: When searing meat at high temperatures in a pan, my preferred choice of oil is avocado oil. However, olive oil can also be used as an alternative.
Butter: It’s advisable to use unsalted butter since the meat will already have absorbed some salt during the searing process. Ensure that the butter reaches room temperature before blending it with garlic and herbs for easier application on the meat.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is the key ingredient here. It not only imparts a robust flavor but also contributes to the texture of the tenderloin’s exterior.

Fresh Herbs: Opt for a delightful herb combination of rosemary and thyme for your meat dishes. Be sure to use fresh sprigs rather than dried herbs for the best results.

Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step recipe guide.

How to Make Beef Tenderloin Roast

Preparing the Beef Tenderloin: Bring the beef tenderloin to room temperature before cooking, which typically takes around 1 to 2 hours. Next, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

Create the Herbed Butter Mixture: Prepare the herbed butter mixture by mixing softened butter, herbs, and minced garlic in a bowl; set this mixture aside.

Trimming the Beef Tenderloin: Prepare the beef tenderloin by trimming it. When you acquire a whole beef tenderloin from the butcher, it usually has an elongated shape. Ensure that you remove the silverskin (either yourself or have the butcher do it), fold the thinner end underneath to achieve a more consistent thickness, and then cut it in half to ensure it fits in the pan.

Secure It With Twine to Ensure Uniform Cooking: To ensure even cooking, it’s crucial to tie up your beef tenderloin. You can also request the butcher to perform this step if you prefer.

Seasoning: Utilize paper towels to blot away any surplus moisture from the tenderloin. Subsequently, generously season both sides with salt and pepper.

Searing the Beef: Heat up your cast iron pan until it starts to shimmer, then add the beef tenderloin. Allow it to brown for a few minutes on each side, totaling around 10 minutes, resulting in that appetizing golden crust.

Roasting in the Oven: Apply the herbed butter mixture generously over the top side of the beef tenderloin, and then transfer the entire pan to the oven. Roast for approximately 15 to 20 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Resting: Move the tenderloin to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This step facilitates the gradual redistribution of juices throughout the meat, ensuring it remains exceptionally tender and juicy. Afterwards, remove the twine and slice it into 1-inch thick pieces.

Tips and Troubleshooting

Cooking a perfect beef tenderloin roast is a rewarding experience, but it comes with its share of challenges.

Here are some tips and solutions to common issues you might encounter along the way.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking: Keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking, which can result in dry meat.
Skipping Resting: Patience is key. Don’t skip the resting step after cooking; it allows the juices to redistribute.
Inadequate Seasoning: Don’t be shy with seasonings and rubs. Beef tenderloin can handle robust flavors.

Overcooked: If you’ve overcooked your tenderloin, try slicing it thinly and using it in sandwiches or salads to mask the dryness.
Undercooked: If the meat is undercooked, return it to the oven or grill at a lower temperature until the desired doneness is reached.

Enhancing Flavor and Tenderness

Marinating: Experiment with different marinades to infuse unique flavors into your beef tenderloin.

Aging: Dry-aging your beef for a few days in the refrigerator can enhance its flavor and tenderness. Just be sure to trim any dry outer layers before cooking.

With these tips and troubleshooting solutions, you’re well-prepared to conquer any culinary challenges.

Sides and Sauces

Pairing the perfect sides and sauces with your beef tenderloin roast is like finding the right partner for a dance – they should complement each other beautifully.

Let’s dive into some delectable options to make your meal complete.

Ideal Side Dishes

Classic Accompaniments

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a timeless choice that pairs wonderfully with beef tenderloin. You can add butter, cream, or garlic for extra flavor.

Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, and Brussels sprouts adds color and nutrition to your plate.

Yorkshire Pudding: This British classic is a popover-like delight, perfect for soaking up those savory beef juices.

Creative Pairings

Grilled Corn Salad: A refreshing salad with grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, and avocados drizzled with a zesty dressing adds a burst of freshness to your meal.

Truffle Mac and Cheese: Elevate your side dish game with truffle-infused mac and cheese, a rich and indulgent treat.

Wild Mushroom Risotto: Creamy and earthy, this risotto makes for an elegant companion to your tenderloin.

Homemade Sauces

Béarnaise Sauce
Peppercorn Sauce
Red Wine Reduction

Serving and Presentation

Your beef tenderloin roast is cooked to perfection, and the sides and sauces are ready to complement it.

Now, let’s turn our attention to the final steps: slicing and plating, as well as garnishes to make your dish visually appealing.

Slicing and Plating

How to Carve Beef Tenderloin

Carving a beef tenderloin may seem daunting, but it’s quite simple when you follow these steps:

Let It Rest: Remember the importance of resting? It’s time to reap the rewards. Your rested tenderloin is juicier and easier to carve.

Cutting the Roast: Begin by cutting the tenderloin into thick slices, about 1/2 to 1 inch thick, against the grain. This ensures tenderness.

Serve with Pan Juices: Pour any collected pan juices or sauce over the sliced beef to enhance flavor and juiciness.

Plating for Visual Appeal

Presentation matters, and a well-plated dish can elevate the dining experience. Consider these tips:

Use a Clean Plate: Start with a clean, well-chosen plate or platter as your canvas.

Arrangement: Place the sliced beef tenderloin in the center of the plate, slightly overlapping for an elegant look.

Sides: Arrange your side dishes neatly around the beef, balancing colors and textures.

Sauce: Drizzle a bit of your homemade sauce around the plate for an artistic touch.

Garnish: Don’t forget the garnishes for a pop of color and freshness. Let’s explore some ideas.

Garnishes

Fresh Herbs and Edible Flowers

Fresh herbs and edible flowers not only add color but also a burst of flavor to your dish. Consider using:

Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant green hue and a subtle earthy flavor.

Chive Blossoms: Delicate purple chive blossoms are both beautiful and oniony in taste.

Edible Marigolds: These bright orange or yellow flowers have a mild, slightly peppery flavor.

Colorful Vegetables

Bright and colorful vegetables can add visual appeal and nutrition. Try these options:

Steamed Asparagus: Long, slender asparagus spears add a touch of elegance.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Bursting with flavor, roasted cherry tomatoes provide a juicy contrast.

Baby Carrots: Glazed or roasted baby carrots bring a vibrant orange to your plate.

Now that your beef tenderloin roast is a feast for both the eyes and the palate, let’s explore what to do with any leftovers in the next section.

Leftovers and Storage

You’ve savored every bite of your beef tenderloin roast, but what do you do with the leftovers?

Let’s dive into how to store them, safely reheat, and even turn them into new culinary delights.

Storing Cooked Tenderloin

Refrigeration: If you plan to enjoy your leftovers within a few days, refrigeration is the way to go. Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing: To extend the shelf life further, freezing is your best bet. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This can keep your leftovers for several months.

Reheating

When reheating your beef tenderloin, ensure it stays tender and juicy:

Oven: Preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C), place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat until warmed through.

Sous-Vide: For the ultimate tenderness, consider using the sous-vide method again. Submerge the vacuum-sealed leftovers in a water bath at the original cooking temperature until heated.

Microwave: Use the microwave with caution to avoid overcooking. Cover leftovers with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, and use short intervals, checking and stirring between them.

Creative Leftover Ideas

Beef Tenderloin Sandwiches

Transform your leftovers into gourmet sandwiches:

Slice the leftover beef thinly and pile it onto a fresh baguette or ciabatta roll.

Add your favorite condiments, like horseradish sauce or Dijon mustard.
Layer on some fresh greens, tomato slices, and perhaps a bit of cheese.

Beef Stir-Fry

Give your tenderloin a new life in a flavorful stir-fry:

Slice the beef into thin strips.
Heat a wok or skillet with some oil, and stir-fry the beef with vegetables and your choice of sauce (soy sauce, hoisin, or teriyaki).

Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a quick and delicious meal.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve embarked on a culinary journey to master the art of cooking beef tenderloin roast.

From selecting the perfect cut to carving it with finesse, you’ve learned the ropes of creating a memorable meal.

Remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t flawless. Cooking is an art, and every cook’s journey is filled with delicious discoveries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is beef tenderloin roast, and why is it special?

Beef tenderloin roast, often known as filet mignon when sliced into steaks, is a remarkably tender and mild-flavored cut of beef. It’s special because of its unmatched tenderness and versatility in creating gourmet meals.

How do I choose the perfect beef tenderloin?

Consider the size and weight based on the number of servings, fresh vs. frozen options, and whether you prefer bone-in or boneless cuts. Local butchers, supermarkets, and online sources are all viable places to buy.

What are the essential steps in preparing beef tenderloin?

Key steps include safe thawing methods, trimming excess fat and silver skin, seasoning with marinades or dry rubs, and allowing the meat to come to room temperature before cooking.

What are the recommended cooking techniques for beef tenderloin?

Options include oven roasting, grilling, sous-vide cooking for precision, and smoking to add a unique flavor. Each method has its distinct advantages.

What are some ideal side dishes and homemade sauces to pair with beef tenderloin?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables work well. Homemade sauces like Béarnaise, Peppercorn, and Red Wine Reduction add richness and flavor.

How should I slice and present beef tenderloin for an appealing presentation?

Slice against the grain for tenderness and arrange the beef in the center of the plate. Surround it with sides, drizzle with sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs or colorful vegetables.

What can I do with leftover beef tenderloin?

Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen. Reheat using methods like the oven, sous-vide, or microwave. Get creative with leftover recipes like beef tenderloin sandwiches or beef stir-fry.