Why you’ll love this dish

Garlic Herb Beef Tenderloin is a true celebration of flavors and textures that will impress anyone sitting at your dining table. The dish centers around a beautifully tender cut of beef, bathed in a rich and aromatic marinade of garlic, herbs, and savory spices. It stands out not just for its taste but for its elegance, making it perfect for special occasions or intimate dinners. Picture a juicy, perfectly cooked medallion of beef that melts in your mouth, complemented by the robust flavors of thyme and rosemary. It’s an experience you won’t forget.

Imagine hosting a dinner party, and your guests rave about the main course long after they’ve left. This recipe is guaranteed to elevate your culinary reputation without demanding hours of your time in the kitchen. It’s a sophisticated yet approachable dish that even the busiest home cooks can master.

“I made this for my family, and they couldn’t stop talking about it! The flavors were out of this world.” – A delighted home cook

The cooking process explained

This dish comes together with a few simple steps that transform a beautiful piece of beef into a gourmet masterpiece. After a quick prep and marinating session, all you’ll need is a skillet and an oven. The searing creates a perfect crust while enhancing the flavors, and then it’s roasted to your desired doneness. The combination of these methods ensures that the beef remains juicy, flavorful, and aromatic, making it an absolute showstopper.

What you’ll need

To create this delicious Garlic Herb Beef Tenderloin, you’ll require the following ingredients:

2 to 3 pounds beef tenderloin, trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef broth

Selecting high-quality beef is crucial for this recipe. Look for tenderloin that has a rich color and fine marbling. Fresh herbs will enhance the dish’s aroma and flavor, so if possible, opt for herbs from your garden or local farmers’ market.

Directions to follow

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until smooth.
Pat the beef tenderloin dry using paper towels. Rub the marinade evenly over the roast, ensuring every inch is covered. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloin on all sides until browned, which should take about 3-4 minutes for each side.
Once browned, pour the beef broth into the skillet around the roast. This will add moisture and flavor during the roasting process.
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Cover the meat with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial for juicy beef as it allows the juices to redistribute.
Slice the beef against the grain into ½-inch medallions, and serve with the pan juices for maximum flavor.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving your Garlic Herb Beef Tenderloin, presentation can enhance the dining experience. A simple yet elegant way to plate it is to arrange the medallions artfully on a large serving platter. Drizzle the pan juices over the slices for an added touch of flavor and shine.

For side dishes, consider classic pairings like creamy mashed potatoes, garlicky sautéed greens, or a fresh arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Don’t forget a nice glass of red wine to complement the savory beef!

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you have any leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their mouthwatering flavor. Allow the beef to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze sliced beef tenderloin for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep them moist, or microwave in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are some additional tips for mastering this recipe:

Letting the beef sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking helps it cook more evenly.
If you prefer a more intense flavor, feel free to marinate the beef tenderloin overnight in the refrigerator.
Use a meat thermometer to get the perfect level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F; for medium, target around 145°F.

Creative twists

Looking to shake things up? Here are some variations to consider:

Incorporate different herbs, such as sage or tarragon, for a unique flavor profile.
Add a splash of red wine to the skillet while searing for an extra depth of flavor.
For a spicy kick, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes into your marinade.

Common questions

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

While beef tenderloin delivers exceptional tenderness, you can substitute it with sirloin or ribeye. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the cut.

How do I know when the beef is done?

Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your beef is cooked to your liking. The ideal internal temperature for medium-rare is 135°F, and for medium, it is 145°F.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the tenderloin the night before. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.

With these handy tips and this delightful recipe, you’re on your way to impressing friends and family with a stunning homemade dish. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Garlic Herb Beef Tenderloin

A beautifully tender cut of beef, marinated with garlic, herbs, and spices, perfect for special occasions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Contemporary

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 to 3 pounds beef tenderloin, trimmed Select high-quality beef with a rich color and fine marbling.
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped Fresh herbs enhance the aromatic flavor.
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped Fresh herbs enhance the aromatic flavor.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef broth Adds moisture and flavor during roasting.

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until smooth.
Pat the beef tenderloin dry using paper towels. Rub the marinade evenly over the roast, ensuring every inch is covered. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Cooking

Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the tenderloin on all sides until browned, which should take about 3-4 minutes for each side.
Once browned, pour the beef broth into the skillet around the roast.
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Cover the meat with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
Slice the beef against the grain into ½-inch medallions, and serve with the pan juices.

Notes

For serving, arrange medallions artfully on a platter and drizzle pan juices over slices. Ideas for side dishes include creamy mashed potatoes and garlicky sautéed greens. Properly store leftovers in an airtight container, refrigerated for 3-4 days, or frozen for 3 months.

Keyword beef tenderloin, garlic herb, marinated beef, roasted beef, special occasion