Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This beef tenderloin crostini is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The combination of tender, juicy filet mignon and the rich flavors of horseradish and blue cheese is irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a special event or just looking for a tasty treat, this appetizer has all the right elements: savory, creamy, and perfectly balanced. It’s the kind of dish that will make you the star of any party.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 7-8 oz beef tenderloin (Filet Mignon)
- Salt and pepper
- Granulated garlic
- Dried oregano
- Canola oil (for searing)
- 1 baguette
- Olive oil (for brushing on bread)
- Kosher salt
- Granulated garlic or garlic salt
- Horseradish sauce
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions
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Prepare the beef: Remove the tenderloin from the refrigerator 45-60 minutes before cooking. Coat the beef with canola oil and generously apply the salt, pepper, granulated garlic, and oregano.
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Sear the beef: Heat a cast-iron skillet with a tablespoon of canola oil until it reaches around 425°F. Sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until browned, then lower the heat and continue cooking, flipping every few minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare. Tent with foil and let it rest for 10 minutes.
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Toast the baguette: Preheat your broiler to high. Slice the baguette into ¼-inch slices, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt and granulated garlic. Toast the slices under the broiler for about 1 to 1.5 minutes, turning occasionally to avoid burning.
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Assemble the crostini: After resting the beef, slice it into ¼-inch pieces. Spoon some horseradish sauce onto each toasted baguette slice. Place a piece of beef on top, then sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles. Garnish with chopped parsley.
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Serve: Arrange the crostini on a baking sheet and serve immediately, or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Total time: 30 minutes (including resting time for beef)
Variations
- Cheese swap: Try substituting the blue cheese with goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.
- Sauce options: For a milder taste, replace the horseradish sauce with a garlic aioli or a creamy mustard sauce.
- Add greens: Add arugula or spinach on top of the crostini for a fresh, peppery bite.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the crostini components separately. Keep the beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The toasted baguette can be stored in a zip-lock bag at room temperature for 1-2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat the beef, warm it in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes. Toast the baguette slices in the oven to restore their crunch.
FAQs
How do I know when my beef is cooked to medium-rare?
The internal temperature should be around 130°F when you remove it from the heat. Allow it to rest, and the temperature will rise by about 5°F.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the beef and toast the baguette slices ahead of time. Assemble the crostini just before serving to maintain their freshness.
What can I use instead of a cast-iron skillet for searing the beef?
A heavy stainless steel skillet is a good alternative if you don’t have cast iron.
How thick should the beef be sliced?
Slice the beef into ¼-inch pieces to ensure they fit nicely on the crostini.
Can I use pre-made horseradish sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought horseradish sauce, but making your own will give you a fresher, more flavorful result.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add more horseradish or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, simply omit the bread and serve the beef with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad for a low-carb alternative.
How can I make the beef tenderloin more flavorful?
Marinating the beef for 1-2 hours before cooking can enhance the flavor. Use a marinade with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and fresh herbs.
Can I serve this as a main dish?
Yes, serve it with a side salad and roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
What wine pairs well with this appetizer?
A bold red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the beef and blue cheese.
Conclusion
This seared beef tenderloin crostini appetizer is a showstopper for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, full of rich flavors, and perfect for impressing guests. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a main dish, these crostini are sure to be a hit.
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Seared Beef Tenderloin Crostini Appetizer
- Total Time: 30 minutes (including resting time for beef)
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Description
This Seared Beef Tenderloin Crostini is the perfect appetizer for any event, featuring tender filet mignon, creamy horseradish sauce, and tangy blue cheese atop crispy baguette slices. With a delicious balance of savory, creamy, and crunchy textures, this crowd-pleasing dish is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress your guests. Elevate your next gathering with this mouthwatering crostini recipe!
Ingredients
- 7–8 oz beef tenderloin (Filet Mignon)
- Salt and pepper
- Granulated garlic
- Dried oregano
- Canola oil (for searing)
- 1 baguette
- Olive oil (for brushing on bread)
- Kosher salt
- Granulated garlic or garlic salt
- Horseradish sauce
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: Remove the tenderloin from the refrigerator 45-60 minutes before cooking. Coat the beef with canola oil and generously apply the salt, pepper, granulated garlic, and oregano.
- Sear the beef: Heat a cast-iron skillet with a tablespoon of canola oil until it reaches around 425°F. Sear the beef tenderloin on all sides until browned. Lower the heat and cook, flipping every few minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare. Tent with foil and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Toast the baguette: Preheat your broiler to high. Slice the baguette into ¼-inch slices, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt and granulated garlic. Toast under the broiler for 1-1.5 minutes, turning occasionally to avoid burning.
- Assemble the crostini: After resting the beef, slice it into ¼-inch pieces. Spoon horseradish sauce onto each toasted baguette slice. Top with a piece of beef and sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles. Garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve: Arrange the crostini on a baking sheet and serve immediately or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Notes
- Cheese Swap: Use goat cheese or feta instead of blue cheese for a milder flavor.
- Sauce Variations: Replace horseradish sauce with garlic aioli or creamy mustard sauce for a different twist.
- Add Greens: Garnish with arugula or spinach for a fresh, peppery bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Searing, Toasting
- Cuisine: American
