Prepare to elevate your dinner game with this show-stopping Beef Tenderloin Roast with Garlic Herb Butter that will make your guests think you've secretly trained in a Michelin-starred French kitchen. This recipe transforms an already luxurious cut of meat into a culinary masterpiece that's surprisingly simple to prepare, yet looks and tastes like you've spent hours crafting the perfect meal. Whether you're hosting a special occasion or simply want to impress your family with a restaurant-quality dinner, this recipe is your golden ticket to becoming the ultimate home chef.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lb beef tenderloin
- 4 tbsp butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove beef tenderloin from refrigerator 1 hour before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a perfect sear.
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper to create a fragrant herb butter.
- Season the entire beef tenderloin generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add a small amount of high-heat oil like grapeseed or avocado oil.
- Sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until a golden-brown crust forms, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove skillet from heat and spread the prepared garlic herb butter evenly over the surface of the beef.
- Transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C).
- Remove from oven and transfer beef to a cutting board. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let rest for 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice against the grain into 1/2-inch thick portions and serve immediately, drizzling any remaining pan juices over the meat.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your beef tenderloin come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and perfect doneness.
- Moisture Management: Pat the meat completely dry before searing to achieve that gorgeous golden-brown crust that locks in incredible flavor.
- Invest in a Meat Thermometer: For foolproof results, use a digital meat thermometer to check the internal temperature precisely.
- Resting is Crucial: Never skip the resting period! This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is incredibly tender and juicy.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and high-quality butter to maximize the flavor of your garlic herb butter.
- Searing Technique: Use a cast-iron skillet for the best sear and heat retention, creating a beautiful crust on your tenderloin.
- Slice Against the Grain: When serving, always slice the beef against the grain to ensure the most tender and easy-to-chew pieces.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
