Baked Beef Tenderloin

If you’re looking for a dish that feels both special and approachable, let me share my favorite Baked Beef Tenderloin recipe with you. This meal is not just for holidays or fancy gatherings; it’s perfect for any occasion when you want to bring joy to the table. The tender beef, infused with spices and topped with butter, creates a mouthwatering crust that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Trust me; once you taste this masterpiece, it will become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.

What makes this Baked Beef Tenderloin so special is its blend of simplicity and sophistication. You can whip it up on a busy weeknight or serve it at a gathering, making it incredibly versatile. It’s an elegant centerpiece that doesn’t require hours of work in the kitchen, allowing you more time to enjoy with your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll feel like a pro chef in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The savory flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your dinner table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the spice rub in advance, saving time on busy days.
• Impressive Presentation: This dish looks stunning when served, making it ideal for special occasions without the stress.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices creates an incredible crust while keeping the beef juicy and tender.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome—perfect for creating a delicious meal without any fuss. Here’s what you need for the Baked Beef Tenderloin:

• 2 beef tenderloins
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• ¼ cup cold salted butter (cut into squares)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: If beef isn’t your thing, try using chicken tenderloins for a lighter version.
• Add herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
• Spice it up: For those who love heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice rub.
• Glaze it: Brush honey or balsamic reduction over the tenderloin during roasting for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Baked Beef Tenderloin

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when you place your seasoned beef inside, it cooks evenly and develops that gorgeous caramelized crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Rub

In a bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, dried thyme, onion powder, and black pepper. Mixing these spices creates a flavorful rub that enhances the taste of the beef.

Step 3: Season the Beef

Pat each beef tenderloin dry with paper towels—this helps achieve that perfect sear! Generously coat each piece with your spice rub. Make sure every inch is covered; this is where all those delightful flavors come from!

Step 4: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Searing each side of the beef for about 3-5 minutes until it’s beautifully browned locks in juices and adds depth to the flavor.

Step 5: Prepare for Roasting

Transfer your seared beef onto a lined baking sheet or casserole dish. Top each piece with squares of cold butter—this melts as it cooks and keeps everything moist while adding richness.

Step 6: Roast in the Oven

Now it’s time to roast! Place your baking sheet in the oven and cook for about 30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Cover loosely with foil halfway through cooking to prevent over-browning.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once done, let your beef rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial as it allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is succulent and flavorful.

And there you have it—a beautiful Baked Beef Tenderloin ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Beef Tenderloin

Cooking a perfect beef tenderloin can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips. Here are some suggestions to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time!

• Use room temperature meat: Allowing the beef tenderloins to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking helps them cook more evenly, resulting in juicier meat.

• Don’t skip the searing: Searing the beef before roasting creates a delicious crust and locks in the juices, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

• Invest in a meat thermometer: Using a meat thermometer ensures that you achieve the perfect doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

• Rest the meat: Letting the beef rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice tender and flavorful.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the spice rub according to your taste preferences! Adding herbs like rosemary or spices like cayenne can give your dish an exciting twist.

How to Serve Baked Beef Tenderloin

Presenting your baked beef tenderloin is all about creating an inviting atmosphere at your dining table. Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the beef.
• Caramelized onions: Sweet, caramelized onions can provide a lovely contrast and add depth to each bite.
• Zest of lemon: A sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving brightens up the dish and enhances its savory notes.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and zucchini roasted with olive oil makes for a vibrant and healthy accompaniment.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes offer a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the tender beef’s richness.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese provides a refreshing balance to the meal.
• Green beans almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almond slivers add both crunch and nutrition, making them an elegant addition to your plate.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’ll create not only a delicious Baked Beef Tenderloin but also a memorable dining experience for you and your guests! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Beef Tenderloin is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavors without the fuss on busy days. You can easily store leftovers or even prepare it ahead of time for future meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beef tenderloin to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped beef in an airtight container or a resealable bag.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the beef tenderloin into portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bags with the date and contents before freezing.
• The Baked Beef Tenderloin can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Place the beef slices in a baking dish, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
• Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

What makes this Baked Beef Tenderloin special?

This Baked Beef Tenderloin is special because it combines a simple preparation method with rich flavors from a unique spice rub that caramelizes beautifully during roasting.

Can I use other cuts of beef instead of tenderloin?

While tenderloin is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can substitute sirloin or ribeye. However, cooking times may vary based on the cut used.

How do I know when my Baked Beef Tenderloin is done?

To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare. Let it rest before slicing for optimal juiciness.

Can I marinate the beef tenderloin before baking?

Absolutely! Marinating adds extra flavor. Just remember to adjust your seasoning since marinades can add saltiness to the dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Baked Beef Tenderloin! It’s not only a dish that brings elegance to your table but also one that creates lasting memories around shared meals. Enjoy every moment as you whip up this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with family and friends. Happy cooking!