This roast beef tenderloin is truly a showstopper! It’s juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for special dinners or celebrations.
The best part? It looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to cook. Slice it up and serve it with some tasty sides. Your guests will think you’re a chef—a little secret that’s just between us! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Tenderloin: This is the star of the show! Choose a well-marbled cut for the best flavor and tenderness. If beef isn’t available, pork tenderloin can be a good alternative, though it will taste different.
Olive Oil: A great choice for flavor and seasoning. If you need a substitute, avocado oil is excellent too. It’s high heat stable and adds a mild taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for a potent flavor. If you must use powder, try about 1 teaspoon, but keep in mind fresh gives your dish a vibrant punch.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme add aromatic notes. If fresh herbs aren’t available, use 1/3 of the amount for dried herbs. My preference is always for fresh to elevate the dish!
Dijon Mustard: It enhances flavor with a bit of tang. If you find yourself out, yellow mustard works in a pinch, but it’ll be less intense.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Sear on the Tenderloin?
Searing the beef is essential for building flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is very hot before adding the butter; this creates a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; place only the tenderloin in. Overcrowding causes steaming instead of searing.
- Let it cook for 2-3 minutes on each side without moving it. This helps develop a beautiful brown crust!
Remember to monitor the temperature after transferring to the oven. A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
Irresistible Million Dollar Roast Beef Tenderloin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (3 to 4 lb) whole beef tenderloin, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious roast takes about 15-20 minutes to prep, plus 20-25 minutes to cook for medium-rare. Don’t forget to allow another 10-15 minutes for resting the meat after you take it out of the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at around an hour to a perfect meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will give your roast a perfect finish.
2. Make the Seasoning Rub:
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, black pepper, salt, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar (if using). Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This spicy mix is what gives your beef that million-dollar flavor!
3. Prepare the Tenderloin:
Take your beef tenderloin and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is key to getting a good sear! Once dry, rub the seasoning mixture all over the tenderloin, making sure it’s coated evenly on all sides.
4. Sear the Tenderloin:
Place a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan on medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt until it’s bubbly and starting to brown. Carefully add the tenderloin to the hot pan and sear for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You want a nice, golden-brown crust to form—this locks in those delicious juices!
5. Roast the Tenderloin:
Once seared, transfer the skillet with the tenderloin directly to the preheated oven (or if your skillet isn’t oven-safe, carefully move the meat to a roasting pan). Roast for about 20 to 25 minutes for a perfect medium-rare doneness, or until a meat thermometer reads 130-135°F (54-57°C). Adjust the cooking time if you prefer it more well done!
6. Let It Rest:
When the tenderloin is done, take it out of the oven and make sure to transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This is a crucial step as it allows all the delicious juices to settle back into the meat!
7. Slice and Serve:
After resting, slice the tenderloin into 1-inch thick medallions. Arrange them on a warm serving platter and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs. Drizzle any pan juices over the slices for an extra burst of flavor.
8. Enjoy:
Serve your beautiful roast beef tenderloin with your choice of sides and enjoy a dish that truly feels like a million dollars!
Bon Appétit!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
While beef tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can substitute with a beef roast like sirloin or ribeye. Adjust the cooking time, as different cuts may require longer cooking to achieve tenderness.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
You can prep the seasoning rub and coat the tenderloin up to a day ahead. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking for even results!
How Should I Store Leftover Roast Beef Tenderloin?
Store any leftover roast beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice it and warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with Beef Tenderloin?
This roast pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a touch of elegance, consider serving it with a red wine reduction sauce!
