Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a truly impressive, yet surprisingly easy, meal to wow your family and friends? Then look no further! This Beef Tenderloin recipe, inspired by the culinary experts at America's Test Kitchen, delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal fuss. It's a perfect blend of delicious, healthy, and quick dinner ideas, ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 2-pound beef tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
Equipment:
- Roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Tenderloin
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Searing for Flavor
Heat the olive oil in a roasting pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the tenderloin in the pan, ensuring all sides are seared beautifully. This process takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. The sear adds incredible depth of flavor to this easy recipe.
Step 3: Herb Infusion & Roasting
Place the rosemary and thyme sprigs around the tenderloin in the roasting pan. Tuck the smashed garlic cloves underneath. Roast the beef for 20-25 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare, or your desired doneness.
Step 4: Resting is Key
Once cooked, remove the tenderloin from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in an incredibly tender and flavorful dish.
Step 5: Slicing and Serving
Slice the tenderloin against the grain into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Serve immediately and enjoy! This delicious dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Beef Tenderloin:
- Don't overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your tenderloin reaches your desired level of doneness. Overcooked beef tenderloin can be dry and tough.
- Room temperature start: Allowing the tenderloin to come to room temperature before searing helps it cook more evenly.
- Seasoning matters: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! They enhance the natural flavor of the beef.
- Resting is crucial: Never skip the resting period. It's the secret to a juicy and tender tenderloin.
Variations:
- Garlic Herb Butter: For an extra layer of flavor, melt some butter with garlic and herbs and drizzle it over the tenderloin before serving.
- Red Wine Reduction: Deglaze the roasting pan with red wine after removing the tenderloin to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, sage, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the size of the tenderloin and serving size. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This beef tenderloin recipe is a simple yet elegant addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy the compliments!