Savor the Succulence: Perfectly Cooked Garlic-Rosemary Beef Tenderloin

You’ll love this easy Roast Beef Tenderloin recipe with garlic and rosemary—it’s my go-to for holiday entertaining. It’s tender, flavorful, and perfect for any festive occasion.

Why Beef Tenderloin Is Perfect for the Holidays

This melt-in-your-mouth beef tenderloin is a holiday favorite because it’s simple to prepare and always impresses. Known as the “king of cuts,” this lean, boneless roast is ideal for entertaining. Here’s why it belongs on your holiday table:

Effortlessly Elegant: A stunning centerpiece that’s easy to prepare, even for beginners.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Buttery texture and rich flavor that everyone loves.
Quick Cooking Time: Saves you time for other holiday tasks.
Versatile Pairing Options: Pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, or sweet potato gratin.
Minimal Ingredients: Requires just six ingredients, including olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Dietary-Friendly: Gluten-free, high-protein, dairy-free, and Weight Watchers-friendly (zero points!).

If you make this beef tenderloin recipe, I’d love to see it! Tag me in your photos or videos on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

Ingredients

You only need six simple ingredients to create this impressive roast:

Olive Oil: Used to make a flavorful rub for the beef. Melted butter is a great alternative.
Garlic: Adds a robust, savory flavor.
Fresh Rosemary: Pairs perfectly with garlic. You can substitute with fresh thyme if preferred.
Salt & Black Pepper: To season the tenderloin.
Beef Tenderloin: Choose USDA Prime for exceptional marbling or USDA Choice for a more affordable option.

How to Cook Beef Tenderloin Roast

Follow these steps for a perfectly roasted beef tenderloin:

Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the beef tenderloin from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for 30–60 minutes.
Make the Rub: Mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Prepare the Beef: Trim any excess fat and tie the tenderloin at 2-inch intervals with butcher’s twine. This helps it retain its shape and cook evenly.
Season the Beef: Pat the tenderloin dry with paper towels, then rub it with the garlic mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Cook the Tenderloin: Place the tenderloin on a foil-lined baking sheet (optional for easier cleanup). Roast in a preheated oven at 375°F for 45–60 minutes, depending on size, until an internal temperature of 125°F–130°F (medium-rare) is reached.
Rest: Let the tenderloin rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve: Slice and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

What Is Beef Tenderloin?

Beef tenderloin is a luxurious cut of meat from the loin of the cow, prized for its buttery texture and tenderness. It’s lean, boneless, and perfect for roasting or grilling.

Serving Suggestions

Pair beef tenderloin with classic steakhouse sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or creamed spinach. For a decadent touch, serve with sweet potato gratin or spinach gratin.

Leftovers

Store leftover beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Use it to make delicious sandwiches, like a Roast Beef Sandwich with Swiss and Onions or Roast Beef, Arugula, and Parmesan on Baguette.

FAQs

What’s the difference between beef tenderloin and filet mignon?
Beef tenderloin is a larger cut, while filet mignon is taken from the most tender part of the tenderloin.

Can I prep beef tenderloin the night before?
Yes, you can season the tenderloin up to a day in advance to enhance the flavor.

What temperature should I cook beef tenderloin to?
For medium-rare, cook to an internal temperature of 125°F–130°F. For medium, aim for 135°F–140°F. The temperature will rise about 5°F as it rests.

Nutrition Information

Cooking Summary

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 12 servings

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