Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Parmesan Cream Sauce

If you’re looking to impress your guests at your next dinner party or craving a snack that feels a little extra (in the best way possible), Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Parmesan Cream Sauce is here to deliver! Picture this: perfectly tender slices of beef, nestled on crispy toasted baguette slices, and topped with a decadent parmesan cream sauce that’s as rich as it sounds. Every bite is a blend of savory beef, creamy cheese, and crunchy toast, making it an irresistible combination. Trust me, these little bites will steal the show and leave everyone asking for more. So grab that beef, fire up your stove, and let’s get to cooking this savory masterpiece!

Why You’ll Love Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Parmesan Cream Sauce

Here’s why Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Parmesan Cream Sauce is about to become your go-to appetizer:

• Elegance on a Plate: These crostini are elegant enough for a fancy dinner party but easy enough to make at home whenever you want to treat yourself.
• Perfect for Entertaining: They’re bite-sized, which makes them ideal for cocktail parties or casual get-togethers. Your guests will love nibbling on these!
• Rich & Flavorful: The combination of the tender beef, crispy crostini, and velvety parmesan cream sauce creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Customizable: While this recipe is already a winner, you can experiment by adding toppings like arugula, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Ingredients in Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Parmesan Cream Sauce

Let’s break down the ingredients that make these crostini so fantastic:

Beef Tenderloin:

The star of the dish! Tenderloin is incredibly lean and tender, giving the crostini that melt-in-your-mouth feel. The slight sear on the beef adds depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Baguette:

Crispy, buttery baguette slices are the base of this dish, providing a crunchy contrast to the richness of the beef and sauce. You can also use other bread types like ciabatta if you prefer.

Parmesan Cream Sauce:

This rich sauce is made with heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and a touch of garlic and seasoning. It’s the kind of sauce you’ll want to slather on everything!

Olive Oil:

Used to sear the beef, bringing out its natural flavors while keeping it juicy.

Fresh Garlic:

For that wonderful savory aroma and flavor that complements both the beef and the creamy sauce.

Fresh Herbs (Optional):

Add a touch of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra burst of freshness and aromatic flavor.

(Note: The full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s get to the good part—making these delicious crostini!

1. Sear the Beef:

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, sear the beef for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. The goal is a nice crust, so don’t rush this step. Remove from heat and let the beef rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin pieces.

2. Prepare the Crostini:

While the beef rests, slice your baguette into 1-inch thick slices. Place the slices on a baking sheet and brush them lightly with olive oil. Toast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.

3. Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce:

In the same skillet that you used for the beef, melt a bit of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Once simmering, stir in the parmesan cheese, and let it melt into the cream. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Crostini:

Once the crostini are ready, arrange them on a serving platter. Top each slice with a piece of the seared beef tenderloin, followed by a generous spoonful of the parmesan cream sauce.

5. Garnish and Serve:

If desired, garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Serve these warm, and watch them disappear in no time!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 220
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 180mg
Total Carbohydrates: 6g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 14g
Vitamin A: 8%
Vitamin C: 0%
Calcium: 15%
Iron: 6%
Potassium: 130mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Parmesan Cream Sauce

These crostini are fantastic as an appetizer or a light main dish. Here are a few ideas for serving them:

• Perfect for Parties: These crostini are great for holiday gatherings, game days, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
• Serve with a Salad: Pair these crostini with a light arugula salad for a well-rounded meal. The peppery greens and the richness of the crostini balance each other perfectly.
• Accompany with Wine: A glass of red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, will elevate the flavors of the beef and sauce. It’s the perfect drink to serve alongside this savory bite.
• As a Snack: When you’re craving something indulgent, grab a couple of these crostini for a snack that feels special.

Additional Tips

• Use a Meat Thermometer: If you want your beef cooked to perfection, a meat thermometer is your best friend. Aim for 125°F (52°C) for rare, 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, and 135°F (57°C) for medium.
• Make it Ahead: You can sear the beef and prepare the cream sauce ahead of time. Just assemble the crostini right before serving.
• Add Toppings: For an extra burst of flavor, top your crostini with a dollop of horseradish sauce, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, swap out the baguette for gluten-free bread or rice crackers. You’ll still get that crunch and base for the beef!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A1: Yes! If you don’t have beef tenderloin, you can use a rib-eye or sirloin steak. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the cut.

Q2: Can I make the parmesan cream sauce ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day ahead, just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftover crostini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The beef may lose a little tenderness, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Q4: Can I make this recipe without the cream sauce?
A4: Yes! You can serve the beef tenderloin crostini with just a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of parmesan for a lighter version.

Q5: How do I make the crostini extra crispy?
A5: For extra crunch, bake the crostini for a few extra minutes, or brush them with a little garlic butter before toasting.

Q6: Can I use a different cheese in the cream sauce?
A6: Yes! You can use asiago, mozzarella, or even a little goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Parmesan is traditional, but feel free to get creative.

Q7: Can I make these crostini ahead of time?
A7: You can make the crostini and beef ahead of time, but for the best texture, assemble them just before serving so they stay crispy.

Q8: Can I use a gluten-free baguette?
A8: Yes! Gluten-free baguettes are a great substitute for those avoiding gluten. Just toast them the same way as you would with regular baguette slices.

Q9: What side dishes pair well with this?
A9: Roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or even mashed potatoes make great side dishes for these crostini.

Q10: How can I make this more filling?
A10: You could serve the crostini on a bed of sautéed spinach or add a small side of potatoes for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Parmesan Cream Sauce is a show-stopping appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, crispy crostini, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, each bite is a little bite of heaven. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or just indulging in a delicious snack, this recipe is sure to impress. So, let’s get cooking and make snack time special!

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