When it comes to special occasions, there’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked beef tenderloin. Its tender texture and rich flavor make it the centerpiece of any impressive dinner party or holiday feast. But with so many options for seasoning, marinating, and cooking methods, it can be hard to decide on just one recipe.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory beef tenderloin recipes that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their taste buds. From classic combinations like garlic herb butter and peppercorn crusts, to more adventurous flavors like balsamic glaze and blue cheese stuffing, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main course or a unique appetizer or side dish, these recipes are sure to deliver. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and elevate your next special occasion with one of these mouthwatering beef tenderloin dishes.
Garlic Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of butter, the savory flavors of garlic and herbs, and the tenderness of beef tenderloin.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the entire surface of the beef tenderloin.
5. Place the beef tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Wine Marinated Beef Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this tender and flavorful beef tenderloin, marinated to perfection in a rich red wine mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together red wine, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the beef tenderloin in the marinade, turning to coat evenly.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peppercorn Crusted Beef Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful peppercorn crusted beef tenderloin, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, grind peppercorns and coriander seeds into a coarse mixture using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
3. Season the beef tenderloin with kosher salt, then coat evenly with the peppercorn-coriander mixture.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 17-20 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Roasted Beef Tenderloin
Rosemary and Thyme Roasted Beef Tenderloin: A flavorful and elegant main course perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped rosemary and thyme.
3. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and black pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the beef, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the beef and rub in.
6. Place the beef on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Let the beef rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Beef Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful dish, perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 beef tenderloin (1-2 pounds)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, and brown sugar.
3. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Place the beef on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the balsamic glaze mixture evenly over the beef, making sure to coat it completely.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the beef rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Blue Cheese Stuffed Beef Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner party with this rich and savory recipe, perfect for special occasions or a romantic evening. The creamy blue cheese filling adds an unforgettable flavor dimension to the tender beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) beef tenderloin
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix blue cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Place the beef tenderloin on a work surface. Make a horizontal incision along the length of the tenderloin, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff each end of the tenderloin with the blue cheese mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the beef and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mustard and Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this effortless Mustard and Herb Crusted Beef Tenderloin recipe. A perfect combination of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, honey, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the mustard-herb mixture evenly over the beef, making sure to cover all surfaces.
5. Place the beef on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with cooking oil.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Slow-Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Mushroom Sauce
Slow-Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Mushroom Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering slow-roasted beef tenderloin, paired with a rich and savory mushroom sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season the tenderloin with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper.
3. Roast the tenderloin in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. While the beef is roasting, sauté the mushrooms and garlic in a pan over medium heat until softened.
5. Add the flour to the mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
7. Serve the roasted tenderloin with the rich mushroom sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (roasting time) + 15 minutes (mushroom sauce preparation)
Beef Tenderloin with Red Pepper Jelly Glaze
Elevate your beef tenderloin game with this sweet and savory red pepper jelly glaze, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 1/4 cup red pepper jelly
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together red pepper jelly, olive oil, garlic, and soy sauce.
3. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Place the beef on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the glaze all over the meat.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let the beef rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Asian-Style Soy Ginger Beef Tenderloin
Savor the bold flavors of Asia with this tender and juicy beef tenderloin recipe, infused with the warmth of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar.
3. Place the beef tenderloin in a large zip-top plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the beef; massage to coat evenly.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove from marinade; pat dry with paper towels.
6. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tenderloin until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef Tenderloin with Horseradish Cream Sauce
Elevate your dinner party with this show-stopping beef tenderloin, served with a tangy and creamy horseradish cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tenderloin for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
3. Meanwhile, combine horseradish, heavy cream, and garlic in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the beef tenderloin with the horseradish cream sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Beef Tenderloin with Espresso Rub
Elevate your beef tenderloin game with this unique smoked recipe infused with the bold flavors of espresso and spices. Perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) beef tenderloin
– 1/2 cup strong brewed espresso
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Wood chips for smoking (such as hickory or apple)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together espresso, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the espresso mixture all over the beef tenderloin, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the beef tenderloin in the smoker, fat side up.
6. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Reduction
Elevate your dinner party with this elegant dish, featuring tender and flavorful beef paired with a rich red wine reduction sauce. Perfect for special occasions or romantic evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) beef tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef tenderloin with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. While the beef is cooking, reduce the red wine and beef broth mixture in the same skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Add the butter and garlic to the sauce; stir until melted and smooth. Serve the beef tenderloin with the red wine reduction sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef Tenderloin and Caramelized Onion Tart
Elevate your dinner party with this show-stopping tart featuring tender beef, sweet caramelized onions, and flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook beef tenderloin over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate and let rest.
3. In the same skillet, caramelize onions with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place beef tenderloin in center of pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the meat.
5. Spoon caramelized onions over beef, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Brush pastry with beaten egg and fold edges up over filling.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef Tenderloin Skewers with Chimichurri
These skewers combine the tenderloin of a beef filet with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce, perfect for a summer BBQ or dinner party. The result is a deliciously easy and impressive dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) beef tenderloin, trimmed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread beef tenderloin into skewers, leaving a small border at the top and bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Brush chimichurri sauce evenly over the beef.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Tenderloin Wellington Bites
These bite-sized Beef Tenderloin Wellingtons are an elegant and impressive appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion. Flaky puff pastry wraps tender beef tenderloin in a rich mushroom duxelles, then baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-oz) beef tenderloin, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup mushroom duxelles (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mushroom duxelles and melted butter. Set aside.
3. Cut puff pastry into 1-inch squares. Place a beef tenderloin strip in the center of each square.
4. Spoon a small amount of mushroom mixture on top of the beef, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal. Brush tops with melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place Wellingtons on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bite.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beef Tenderloin with Gorgonzola Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this luxurious beef tenderloin recipe, paired with a rich and creamy gorgonzola sauce. The perfect dish for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef tenderloin with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the beef reaches desired doneness.
5. While the beef cooks, combine heavy cream, gorgonzola cheese, and Dijon mustard in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
6. Serve the cooked beef with warm gorgonzola sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Tenderloin Sliders with Truffle Aioli
Elevate your slider game with these tender and flavorful beef tenderloin sliders topped with a rich truffle aioli. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 1/4 cup truffle aioli (store-bought or homemade)
– 8 slider buns
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles for topping
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the beef in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
4. Let the beef rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
5. Assemble the sliders by spreading a dollop of truffle aioli on each bun, followed by a few slices of beef and your choice of toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Elevate your special occasions with these mouthwatering beef tenderloin recipes. From classic flavors to bold twists, you’ll find inspiration for your next dinner party or holiday gathering. Try Garlic Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin for a comforting classic, or opt for Red Wine Marinated Beef Tenderloin for a sophisticated touch. For something unique, try Blue Cheese Stuffed Beef Tenderloin or Smoked Beef Tenderloin with Espresso Rub. With 18 savory options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect recipe for your next special occasion.
