Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The garlic-herb butter adds richness and depth to the naturally tender beef.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: It’s elegant and sophisticated, perfect for entertaining.
• Customizable Doneness: Easily adjust the cooking time to suit your preferred level of doneness.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need a long list of items to create this masterpiece.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 to 5 lb beef tenderloin, trimmed, cut into two pieces, and tied
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 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

Directions

1. Tie the tenderloin with butcher’s twine and season generously with salt and pepper. Allow it to rest at room temperature for about 2 hours before cooking.
2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloin on all sides for 3-5 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms.
4. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, horseradish, and herbs. Spread the mixture evenly over the seared tenderloin.
5. Insert a probe thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin. Place the skillet in the oven (or transfer to a baking dish if needed) and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (e.g., 125°F for medium-rare).
6. Remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 15-20 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute.
7. Slice the roast into 1-inch pieces and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep Time: 2 hours (including resting time)
• Cook Time: 40 minutes (searing and roasting)
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 40 minutes

Variations

• Herb Options: Swap rosemary or thyme for parsley, oregano, or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle heat.
• Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap the tenderloin in strips of bacon before searing for added flavor and moisture.
• Wine Infusion: Deglaze the skillet with red wine after searing to create a simple pan sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover beef tenderloin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat slices in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to avoid overcooking. Add a splash of beef broth to retain moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare the tenderloin ahead of time?

Yes, you can season the tenderloin and prepare the garlic butter mixture a day in advance. Keep them refrigerated and bring to room temperature before cooking.

2. How do I know when the tenderloin is done?

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Medium-rare is achieved at 125°F, medium at 135°F, and well-done at 145°F.

3. Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, but you may need to increase the salt slightly for flavor balance.

4. What sides pair well with beef tenderloin?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement this dish beautifully.

5. Can I cook this on the grill?

Absolutely. Sear the tenderloin over direct heat, then move to indirect heat and cook until your desired doneness is reached.

6. Do I need to tie the tenderloin?

Tying helps maintain an even shape for uniform cooking, but it’s optional if your tenderloin is already compact.

7. Can I freeze leftover tenderloin?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

8. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, use about one-third the amount of dried herbs since they are more concentrated.

9. What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover tenderloin makes excellent sandwiches, salads, or stir-fries.

10. Do I need a cast-iron skillet?

While a cast-iron skillet works best for searing, any oven-safe skillet will suffice.

Conclusion

This Million Dollar Roast Beef Tenderloin is a luxurious yet surprisingly simple recipe that’s perfect for special gatherings. With its rich garlic-herb butter crust and succulent meat, it’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the compliments that follow!