Introduction
When it comes to elegant and unforgettable meals, there are few dishes that rival a perfectly cooked Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast. This recipe combines the tender, juicy beef tenderloin with a rich, aromatic herb butter that enhances its natural flavors. A true showstopper at any dinner party, holiday celebration, or family gathering, this dish offers a sophisticated, melt-in-your-mouth experience that will have your guests begging for more.
The beauty of a beef tenderloin roast lies in its simplicity. The tenderloin cut itself is lean, incredibly tender, and full of flavor. This roast is all about elevating that natural taste with a simple yet luxurious herb butter thatโs packed with fresh garlic, thyme, rosemary, and a touch of lemon zest for brightness. With just a few easy steps, you can master this recipe and enjoy a mouthwatering roast thatโs crispy on the outside and perfectly pink and juicy on the inside.
Letโs walk through everything you need to know to make the perfect Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast at home, from preparation to serving, along with plenty of tips and tricks to ensure success.
Ingredients
For the Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast, youโll need the following:
For the Beef Tenderloin Roast:
- 1 (4 to 5 lb) beef tenderloin roast, trimmed of silver skin and excess fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Herb Butter:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional for a citrusy brightness)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or fresh salads as side dishes
Notes:
- Make sure to choose a high-quality beef tenderloin for the best results.
- Fresh herbs are highly recommended, but if you only have dried herbs, you can substitute with about one-third of the amount of fresh herbs required.
Directions
Now, letโs dive into the step-by-step process of preparing this stunning Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast.
Step 1: Preparing the Beef Tenderloin
1.1 Trimming the Beef
Before you begin seasoning, itโs important to trim the beef tenderloin of any silver skin (the thin, silver-colored membrane) and excess fat. Silver skin is tough and wonโt break down during cooking, which could result in a chewy texture. To remove it, run a sharp knife underneath the skin, pulling it off as you go. You can also ask your butcher to trim the tenderloin for you if you prefer.
1.2 Patting Dry
Once the beef is trimmed, pat the tenderloin dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning stick and promote a better sear during the roasting process.
Step 2: Seasoning the Beef
2.1 Olive Oil Rub
Rub the beef tenderloin with olive oil on all sides. This will not only help the seasoning adhere, but also ensure a beautiful golden-brown sear when cooking. Olive oil is a great base for the rub because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point.
2.2 Adding Seasonings
Generously season the beef with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Seasoning your beef is crucial for building layers of flavor. Make sure to rub the salt and pepper all over the meat, including the ends.
2.3 Herb Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, and garlic powder. This mixture will infuse the meat with incredible herbal flavor as it cooks. Sprinkle the herb mixture over the seasoned beef, gently pressing it into the meat to adhere.
Step 3: Searing the Beef
3.1 Preparing the Pan
Before roasting, itโs important to sear the beef tenderloin to lock in its juices and create a delicious crust. Use a large, oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron for best heat distribution) and heat it over medium-high heat. Let the pan get hot before adding the beef.
3.2 Searing the Roast
Place the beef tenderloin in the hot skillet. Sear it on all sides for about 2-3 minutes, or until each side is golden-brown. This step is crucial for flavor development, as the Maillard reaction will occur, which creates that deep, savory crust.
3.3 Transferring to the Oven
Once the beef is seared on all sides, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast the beef at 450ยฐF (230ยฐC) for about 20-25 minutes for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired level of doneness.
- For rare, the internal temperature should be 120ยฐF (49ยฐC)
- For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 130ยฐF (54ยฐC)
- For medium, the internal temperature should be 140ยฐF (60ยฐC)
- For medium-well, the internal temperature should be 150ยฐF (66ยฐC)
If youโre unsure of the timing, use a meat thermometer to ensure you hit the right temperature.
Step 4: Making the Herb Butter
4.1 Preparing the Butter
While the beef is roasting, make the herb butter. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, parsley, lemon zest, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients together until the butter is well-incorporated with the herbs and garlic.
4.2 Chilling the Herb Butter (Optional)
If you plan to use the herb butter later, roll it into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until firm. Chilled butter is easier to slice and use as a garnish on your beef later.
Step 5: Resting the Beef
Once your beef tenderloin reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This is a crucial step. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping it moist and tender. Slicing the roast immediately after cooking will result in juices running out and a less tender bite.
Step 6: Serving the Beef
6.1 Slicing the Roast
After the beef has rested, slice the tenderloin into 1-inch thick slices using a sharp knife. For the most tender slices, be sure to cut against the grain of the meat.
6.2 Adding the Herb Butter
Place slices of the herb butter on top of each slice of beef, allowing it to melt and create a luscious, buttery glaze over the meat. Garnish with additional fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs for an extra touch of elegance.
6.3 Serving Suggestions
Serve the Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast with your favorite side dishes. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and fresh salads pair wonderfully with the rich, buttery beef.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings, depending on portion sizes. The total time required for making the Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast is about 1 hour from start to finish, including both prep and cooking time.
- Prep time: 15-20 minutes
- Sear time: 10 minutes
- Roast time: 20-25 minutes (depending on doneness)
- Resting time: 10-15 minutes
Ideal Cooking Time for Different Levels of Doneness:
- Rare: 120ยฐF (49ยฐC) โ Cook for about 20 minutes
- Medium-Rare: 130ยฐF (54ยฐC) โ Cook for about 25 minutes
- Medium: 140ยฐF (60ยฐC) โ Cook for 25-30 minutes
- Medium-Well: 150ยฐF (66ยฐC) โ Cook for 30 minutes
Variations
While the Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast is already an exceptional dish, there are plenty of ways to tweak it to your taste. Here are some variations you can try:
1. Different Herbs:
Feel free to experiment with different herbs to change the flavor profile of the dish. Try oregano, sage, or even basil in the herb butter for a Mediterranean twist. Fresh herbs will always give the most vibrant flavor.
2. Spicy Herb Butter:
For a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the herb butter. This creates a nice contrast with the rich beef and gives the dish an exciting kick.
3. Mushroom Sauce:
Sautรฉ fresh mushrooms in butter and garlic, then add a splash of red wine to make a savory sauce. Spoon this over the sliced beef tenderloin for an earthy and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the meat.
4. Garlic Parmesan Herb Butter:
Add Parmesan cheese to your herb butter for a savory, cheesy flavor that will complement the beef beautifully. You can even incorporate a bit of garlic powder to further enhance the garlicky richness.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers:
If you have any leftover beef tenderloin, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. The herb butter can also be stored separately and used for up to a week.
Reheating:
To reheat, place the beef slices in a preheated oven at 250ยฐF (120ยฐC) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Reheat the herb butter on the stove or microwave and drizzle it over the slices before serving.
If you want to store the herb butter for a longer period, it can be frozen for up to three months.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the herb butter ahead of time and refrigerate it. You can also roast the beef a few hours in advance and reheat it gently when ready to serve.
2. What can I serve with beef tenderloin?
Beef tenderloin pairs wonderfully with rich sides like roasted potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, asparagus, or a green salad. You can also serve it with Yorkshire puddings for a traditional British pairing.
3. Can I cook beef tenderloin on the grill?
Yes, you can grill the beef tenderloin! Use indirect heat and finish cooking with the lid closed to achieve the perfect roast. Make sure to sear the roast on all sides before placing it on the grill.
4. Can I use frozen beef tenderloin?
Frozen beef tenderloin works, but it must be fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours before cooking.
5. How do I know when the beef tenderloin is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130ยฐF (54ยฐC). If you donโt have a thermometer, use the touch test to estimate doneness.
6. What if I donโt have fresh herbs?
If you donโt have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs. Just remember to use about a third of the amount required for fresh herbs, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
7. Can I make this dish without searing?
While searing helps develop rich flavors, you can skip this step if youโre short on time. However, the roast may lack the crispy exterior.
8. How do I store leftover beef tenderloin?
Store leftover beef tenderloin in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stove.
9. What makes beef tenderloin so special?
Beef tenderloin is prized for its tenderness and mild flavor. It’s one of the most expensive cuts of beef because of its melt-in-your-mouth texture and leanness.
10. Can I cook the beef at a lower temperature?
You can cook the beef at a lower temperature, but it will take longer. If you prefer slow roasting, cook it at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for about 45-60 minutes, depending on the roast size.
Conclusion
This Herb Butter Beef Tenderloin Roast is a timeless dish that will impress everyone at the dinner table. With the right seasoning, a savory herb butter glaze, and the perfect roasting technique, you can enjoy a luxurious meal that rivals any steakhouse. Whether youโre preparing it for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe is sure to deliver. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to serve up the ultimate tenderloin roastโbecause every great meal deserves to be remembered.