Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Horseradish Sauce

There’s something magical about a perfectly roasted beef tenderloin. The rich, savory flavor of the beef paired with a velvety horseradish sauce is an irresistible combination that’s guaranteed to impress at any dinner party or holiday gathering. Imagine tender, juicy slices of beef that practically melt in your mouth, with a tangy, creamy sauce that adds just the right amount of heat and creaminess to every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or treating yourself to something extraordinary, this dish will never disappoint. Trust me—once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Horseradish Sauce

Elegant and Impressive

This dish looks just as impressive as it tastes! A beautifully roasted beef tenderloin makes for an elegant main course that will have everyone at the table oohing and aahing. It’s perfect for special occasions or any time you want to feel like you’re dining at a top-tier steakhouse from the comfort of your own home.

Rich, Flavorful Beef

Beef tenderloin is known for its buttery texture and deep flavor. Roasting it to perfection ensures that every bite is melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s truly the star of the show.

The Creamy Horseradish Sauce

Let’s talk about that sauce for a second. The horseradish adds a tangy bite that’s balanced by the creamy base, creating a sauce that enhances the beef without overpowering it. It’s the perfect complement to the richness of the tenderloin.

Quick and Easy (But Looks Fancy!)

Despite its elegant appearance, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare. The beef roasts in the oven with minimal prep time, and the sauce comes together in just minutes. It’s the kind of dish that will make you feel like a professional chef without the stress!

Great for a Crowd

This recipe is ideal for serving a group. A whole beef tenderloin can easily feed a crowd, making it perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or even family gatherings. And if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, they make for fantastic sandwiches the next day!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this show-stopping dish:

For the Roasted Beef Tenderloin:

• Beef Tenderloin: This is the star ingredient. A whole beef tenderloin will give you that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Olive Oil: For searing the beef and ensuring a golden, crispy exterior.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a savory, aromatic base to the roast.
• Fresh Rosemary and Thyme: These herbs infuse the beef with a fragrant, earthy flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the beef and bring out its natural flavors.
• Butter: A little butter brushed on the beef towards the end of roasting adds richness and a glossy finish.

For the Creamy Horseradish Sauce:

• Horseradish: The star of the sauce, providing that signature spicy kick.
• Sour Cream: The creamy base that balances out the sharpness of the horseradish.
• Mayonnaise: Adds a bit of richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the sauce and enhances the flavors.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds depth and a hint of tang to the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the sauce and ensuring perfect balance.

(Note: Exact measurements are included in the recipe card below!)

Instructions

Ready to roast this gorgeous tenderloin? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven will give the beef that perfect sear and ensure a beautifully roasted exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef

Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear. Rub the beef with olive oil, minced garlic, and a generous amount of salt and pepper. Sprinkle the fresh rosemary and thyme over the top.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the pan is hot, sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until it’s nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This will lock in the flavor and give it that golden crust.

Step 4: Roast the Beef

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the beef for 25-35 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C), medium is around 135°F (57°C), and medium-well is about 145°F (63°C).

Step 5: Add Butter for Extra Richness

About 10 minutes before the beef is done roasting, add a few pats of butter on top of the tenderloin. This will melt into the beef and add a rich, glossy finish.

Step 6: Let the Beef Rest

Once the beef reaches your desired doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the beef tender and juicy.

Step 7: Make the Horseradish Sauce

While the beef is resting, prepare the creamy horseradish sauce. In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, horseradish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

After the beef has rested, slice it into thick, juicy slices. Serve with a generous dollop of creamy horseradish sauce on the side or drizzled over the top. Enjoy every bite of this tender, flavorful roast!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 350mg
Total Carbohydrates: 3g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 31g
Vitamin A: 4%
Vitamin C: 2%
Calcium: 3%
Iron: 15%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Horseradish Sauce

• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect side to complement the rich beef and zesty horseradish sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef.

Additional Tips

• Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the beef reaches your desired doneness. The temperatures provided above are guidelines, but everyone’s preference can vary.
• Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting period! It’s essential for keeping the beef tender and juicy.
• Alternative Sauces: If horseradish isn’t your thing, try a creamy mustard sauce or a red wine reduction for an equally delicious alternative.
• Leftovers: Leftover beef tenderloin makes for an amazing sandwich the next day. Just slice it thin and pile it on some crusty bread with a little of the horseradish sauce.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this dish in advance?
A1: While the beef is best roasted fresh, you can prepare the horseradish sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.

Q2: How can I make this dish spicier?
A2: Add more horseradish to the sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef rub for an extra kick.

Q3: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
A3: While beef tenderloin is the best cut for this dish, you can substitute with a rib-eye roast or strip loin, though the texture and flavor will differ.

Q4: Can I cook the beef in a slow cooker?
A4: While slow cooking is possible, it won’t achieve the same crispy exterior as roasting. Beef tenderloin is best roasted or seared to retain its juiciness.

Q5: How do I know when the beef is cooked to the right level of doneness?
A5: Use a meat thermometer! Here are the target temperatures: medium-rare (125°F), medium (135°F), medium-well (145°F).

Q6: How should I store leftovers?
A6: Store leftover beef tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop.

Q7: Can I make the horseradish sauce without mayo?
A7: Yes! You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter version.

Q8: What can I serve with this dish besides vegetables?
A8: You could serve it with a fresh salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a garlic bread for a heartier meal.

Q9: Can I cook the beef tenderloin at a lower temperature?
A9: You can roast it at a lower temperature (like 350°F), but the cook time will be longer. The result may be less crispy on the outside.

Q10: Can I make this dish without horseradish?
A10: Absolutely! You can substitute horseradish with mustard or a tangy herb sauce for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Creamy Horseradish Sauce is an elegant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. The tender, juicy beef paired with the creamy, tangy sauce is a combination that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! So fire up your oven, roast that beef to perfection, and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

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