Craving a truly impressive yet surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further than this Beef Tenderloin recipe, a taste of Southern elegance that will wow your guests without hours spent in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a celebratory weeknight meal. It's a delicious dish, elevated yet accessible, making it a staple for both novice and experienced cooks seeking quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Get ready to experience the ultimate in homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef tenderloin, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (about 4)
Instructions:
Preparing the Tenderloin:
- Pat the beef tenderloin dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the spices into the tenderloin, ensuring even coverage.
Searing and Roasting:
- Heat olive oil and butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and foaming, add the tenderloin.
- Sear the tenderloin for 2-3 minutes per side, until a nice brown crust forms. This step locks in the juices and adds incredible flavor.
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Add rosemary sprigs to the skillet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time depending on your desired level of doneness.
Making the Pan Sauce:
- Once the tenderloin is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Pour off any excess fat from the skillet. Place the skillet back on the stove over medium heat.
- Deglaze the pan by adding beef broth and red wine (if using). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this is where the flavor is!
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce slightly reduces and thickens.
Serving:
Slice the rested beef tenderloin against the grain and serve immediately, drizzled with the pan sauce. This easy recipe is a delicious dish perfect with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the tenderloin in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your tenderloin is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Let it rest: Resist the urge to slice the tenderloin immediately after cooking. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Variations:
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, oregano, or sage.
- Garlic lovers: Add a few cloves of minced garlic to the skillet while searing the tenderloin.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 (depending on serving size and additions)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
This Beef Tenderloin recipe is a delightful addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes. Enjoy the delicious results of this healthy meal, perfect for impressing friends and family with your homemade cooking skills. It's a truly satisfying and elegant dish that deserves a place in your culinary adventures.