Million Dollar Roast Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Introduction

When it comes to preparing a special meal, a beef tenderloin is often the first choice for an elegant and delicious dish. The Million Dollar Roast Beef Tenderloin takes that idea to the next level with its rich flavors and perfectly cooked, tender meat. The first time I made this dish, I was amazed at how simple it was to create a mouthwatering roast with such high-quality results. The garlic, horseradish, and herbs combine perfectly with the buttery topping, and the tenderloin itself is juicy, flavorful, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. My family was completely blown away by this dish, and it quickly became one of our go-to recipes for celebratory dinners and special occasions. It’s easy to prepare, and the end result is nothing short of spectacular.

Ingredients

• 4 to 5 lb beef tenderloin, trimmed, cut into two pieces, and tied
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp salted butter, softened
• 2 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp prepared horseradish or Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp minced rosemary or thyme

Instructions

1. Tie the Tenderloin:
   Begin by tying the trimmed beef tenderloin pieces with butcher’s twine. This helps maintain a uniform shape, ensuring even cooking. Generously season the meat with salt and black pepper, coating all sides. Allow the tenderloin to rest at room temperature for about 2 hours. This step is crucial to ensure even cooking and prevent the meat from seizing up during roasting.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), preparing it for roasting.
3. Sear the Tenderloin:
   In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the tenderloin to the skillet. Sear it on all sides for 3-5 minutes, ensuring a golden-brown crust forms. This step helps to lock in all the juices and creates a beautiful exterior, which is essential for flavor.
4. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
   While the tenderloin is searing, prepare the butter mixture. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, horseradish (or Dijon mustard), and minced rosemary or thyme. Stir everything together until well blended.
5. Coat the Tenderloin:
   Once the tenderloin is seared, spread the butter mixture evenly over the roast. Make sure it’s generously coated to maximize the flavor and ensure the meat remains juicy during roasting.
6. Roast the Tenderloin:
   Insert a probe thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin. If using a cast-iron skillet, transfer it directly to the preheated oven. If you’re using a regular skillet, move the tenderloin to a baking dish before roasting. Roast the tenderloin for 20-25 minutes or until the thermometer reaches your desired internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C), and for medium, aim for 135°F (57°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
   Once the tenderloin has reached your desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is tender and flavorful.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate)

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: 350 kcal
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Protein: 30g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice and Plate: Once the beef tenderloin is rested and sliced, arrange the slices on a platter for a beautiful presentation. Serve with the roasted juices for extra flavor.
• Serve with Sauces: Offer a variety of sauces to accompany the roast, such as a rich red wine sauce, creamy horseradish sauce, or a simple balsamic glaze.
• Side Dishes: Serve alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.
• Pair with Wine: For an extra touch of elegance, pair the roast with a bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, to complement the rich flavors of the beef.
• Garnish: Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Meat: Allow the beef tenderloin to rest at room temperature for about 2 hours before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout the meat.
2. Make Sure to Sear Well: Searing the tenderloin on all sides is essential for developing that delicious crust that locks in the juices. Don’t rush this step.
3. Customize the Herb Mixture: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. If you prefer thyme over rosemary, or a combination of both, it will still taste amazing.
4. Monitor the Internal Temperature: For best results, use a probe thermometer to ensure you hit your target temperature for doneness without overcooking the meat.
5. Rest the Meat: After removing the tenderloin from the oven, always let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to preserve the juices inside.

Recipe Variations

• Herb-Crusted Tenderloin: For a more intense herbal flavor, coat the beef tenderloin in a mixture of fresh herbs, garlic, and breadcrumbs before searing and roasting.
• Garlic and Mustard Crust: Instead of just butter, mix minced garlic and Dijon mustard with the butter for an extra punch of flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef.
• Bacon-Wrapped Beef Tenderloin: Wrap the beef tenderloin in bacon before searing and roasting for a crispy, smoky flavor. The bacon fat will add an extra layer of richness to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus for a well-rounded, flavorful meal.
• Mashed Potatoes or Creamy Polenta: Pair with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to absorb the delicious juices from the beef.
• Fresh Green Salad: Serve with a light green salad dressed in a balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the roast.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: While beef tenderloin is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Slice the tenderloin, wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Storage: 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 to avoid overcooking the meat.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
   While beef tenderloin is the most tender cut, you can substitute with ribeye or sirloin, though the cooking method and time may vary.
2. How can I tell when the beef is done?
   Using a probe thermometer is the best way to check doneness. Aim for 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare or 135°F (57°C) for medium.
3. Can I make this recipe without searing?
   While searing adds a flavorful crust, you can skip it and roast the beef directly. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. What can I do if I don’t have butcher’s twine?
   If you don’t have twine, you can skip tying the tenderloin, but using twine helps maintain its shape during cooking.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
   You can prepare the tenderloin up to the searing stage and refrigerate it. Finish the recipe by searing and roasting just before serving.
6. What sides pair best with this roast?
   Potatoes, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and a fresh salad are great sides to pair with roast beef tenderloin.
7. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftover beef tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
8. Can I use frozen beef tenderloin?
   It’s best to thaw frozen beef tenderloin in the refrigerator before cooking for the most even cooking results.
9. Can I make a gravy with the drippings?
   Yes, you can use the drippings to make a simple gravy by adding flour and broth to the pan after roasting the beef.
10. What should I serve with beef tenderloin for a special occasion?
    Pair beef tenderloin with a nice bottle of red wine, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a fresh green salad for an elegant meal.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Roast Beef Tenderloin is a showstopper of a dish that delivers rich, savory flavors and a tender, juicy texture. Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or when you

want to impress your guests, this recipe is surprisingly simple to make. With its beautiful golden-brown crust, aromatic herbs, and a delicious buttery coating, this roast beef will be a memorable centerpiece for any meal. Make it once, and you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

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