Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter
Beef tenderloin with garlic butter is the epitome of an easy yet elegant dish, perfect for special occasions. The seared meat creates a golden, flavorful crust that locks in tenderness while enhancing the savory taste.
Topped with a rich garlic butter, this recipe takes a classic favorite to the next level. The butter infuses the meat with a fragrant, irresistible aroma that complements its natural flavor.
Roasted to perfection in the oven, this beef tenderloin guarantees a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether for a holiday meal or a dinner party, it’s sure to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter: Ingredients
The beef tenderloin, rich in flavor and tenderness, forms the heart of this dish, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience when cooked to perfection. Olive oil sears the meat, sealing in juices and ensuring a beautifully golden crust.
Butter, softened to perfection, blends effortlessly with minced garlic, adding richness and depth to every bite. Fresh parsley offers a pop of color and a subtle freshness to balance the savory indulgence.
Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter: Recipe Tips
- Use a Meat Thermometer
For perfectly cooked beef tenderloin, always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This will ensure your meat is cooked to your desired level of doneness, especially for a cut like tenderloin, where timing is crucial. Aim for 125°F for medium-rare, but adjust based on your preference. - Searing for a Golden Crust
Searing the beef on all sides before roasting is key to developing a flavorful, caramelized crust. Be sure to heat the olive oil over high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan. This ensures the beef gets a perfect sear and locks in the juices, leading to a tender and juicy result. - Resting is Essential
After roasting, let the beef tenderloin rest for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays moist and flavorful when sliced. Cutting too soon can result in dry meat, so give it the time it needs to rest and settle.
What to Serve with Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter
- Roasted Vegetables
Pairing beef tenderloin with a side of roasted vegetables, like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts, complements the rich flavor of the meat. The caramelized edges of the vegetables offer a sweet contrast to the savory tenderloin, making for a balanced, elegant meal. - Garlic Mashed Potatoes
The creamy, buttery texture of garlic mashed potatoes is a perfect side dish to serve with beef tenderloin. The garlic butter sauce from the meat pairs wonderfully with the potatoes, and the dish provides a comforting and satisfying accompaniment to the rich, tender beef. - Crisp Salad with a Light Dressing
A light, fresh salad with mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the beef tenderloin. The acidity from the dressing will cut through the fat, providing a refreshing contrast that enhances the overall meal without overpowering the star of the dish.
FAQ
1. Can I cook this beef tenderloin on the grill?
Yes, you can grill the beef tenderloin instead of roasting it. Sear the tenderloin on all sides over high heat and then move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature for the best results.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While beef tenderloin is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter and season the meat ahead of time. Store the butter mixture and seasoned beef separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
3. How do I adjust the recipe for larger or smaller portions?
To adjust the recipe for a different-sized beef tenderloin, simply adjust the cooking time. The general rule is to cook for 20 minutes per pound for medium-rare, but always check the internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.
4. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
While tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye. These cuts may require slightly different cooking times, so be sure to adjust accordingly and use a thermometer for best results.
Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter
Ingredients
- 5 lb beef tenderloin trimmed and tied (optional: cut into two pieces for easier handling)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 tablespoons butter softened
- 2 teaspoons garlic minced
- Fresh parsley sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by preheating the oven to 450°F.
- In a large, oven-safe pan, heat the olive oil over high heat. Season the tenderloin with salt and pepper, ensuring an even coating.
- Sear the beef on all sides for approximately 4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter and minced garlic. Once the beef has been seared, spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the entire surface of the meat.
- Transfer the pan to the oven and roast for about 20 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 125°F for medium-rare. If a more well-done roast is preferred, allow additional time, referring to a meat temperature guide for precise results.
- After cooking, remove the beef from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Once rested, slice the beef and serve. Garnish with parsley, if desired, before serving.
Notes
For the best flavor, serve the beef promptly after resting to ensure it remains tender and juicy.
