Introduction
There’s something undeniably special about serving a perfectly cooked beef tenderloin roast at a family gathering or festive occasion. Recently, I tried my hand at making an Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast, and it was an absolute hit! The rich flavors of the herb-infused butter combined with the tender, juicy beef left my family raving about it for days. The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, and the dish turned out to be both visually stunning and mouthwateringly delicious. If you’re looking for a centerpiece for your next dinner party or holiday celebration, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 3 lb beef tenderloin roast
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels. Generously season it with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Make the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with chopped rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Apply the Herb Butter: Rub the herb butter mixture all over the beef tenderloin, ensuring an even coating.
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Roast the Beef: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time according to your desired doneness.
- Rest the Beef: Remove the beef from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: ~450
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
How to Serve
- Garnish: Use fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Sides: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Sauce: Consider serving with a red wine reduction or a creamy mushroom sauce for added richness.
Additional Tips
- Choose Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality, grass-fed beef tenderloin for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Room Temperature: Let the beef sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking for more even cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is crucial for achieving the perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting period; it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Customize the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like tarragon or oregano for different flavor profiles.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Herb Butter: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb butter for a bit of heat.
- Different Proteins: Try this herb butter technique with pork tenderloin or chicken breasts for a twist.
- Stuffed Tenderloin: Cut a pocket in the tenderloin and stuff it with spinach and feta cheese before searing.
Serving Suggestions
- Wine Pairing: A robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, pairs beautifully with beef tenderloin.
- Accompaniments: Consider serving with roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus.
- Bread: Fresh crusty bread can be a great addition to soak up any sauces or juices.
Freezing and Storage
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen beef tenderloin?
- Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
- What is the best way to check the beef’s doneness?
- Use a meat thermometer; for medium-rare, aim for 130°F (54°C).
- How long should I let the beef rest?
- Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to maintain juiciness.
- Can I make the herb butter in advance?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the herb butter a day ahead and refrigerate it.
- What other herbs work well?
- Thyme, tarragon, or even sage can add unique flavors.
- Is it necessary to sear the beef?
- Searing enhances flavor and creates a beautiful crust, so it’s highly recommended.
- Can I cook this on the grill instead?
- Yes, you can grill the beef tenderloin for a smoky flavor; just keep a close eye on the temperature.
- What should I serve with this dish?
- It pairs well with roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- How do I reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying it out.
- Can I use dried herbs instead?
- Yes, but use about one-third of the amount as dried herbs are more potent.
Conclusion
The Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a simple family dinner, this roast will elevate your dining experience. With its rich flavors, tender texture, and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to become a beloved recipe in your household. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare to impress your family and friends with this exquisite dish! Enjoy every succulent bite!
PrintHerb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 serving 1x
Description
A succulent and flavorful beef tenderloin roast coated in a rich herb butter mixture, perfect for special occasions and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 lb beef tenderloin roast
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the beef tenderloin dry and season it generously with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, chopped rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Rub the herb butter mixture all over the beef tenderloin.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time as needed for your desired doneness.
- Remove the beef from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- For best results, allow the beef to come to room temperature before cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 4 oz)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg