Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe

If you are searching for a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests and satisfy even the most discerning meat lovers, this Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe is exactly what you need. Succulent, tender, and bursting with rich garlic flavor, this roast combines simple ingredients and straightforward techniques to deliver a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies in its perfect balance of seasoning, searing, and roasting, which brings out the natural juiciness of the beef tenderloin while infusing it with aromatic garlic and buttery goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the short list of ingredients fool you; each component in this Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe plays a vital role in achieving its mouthwatering taste and beautiful presentation. From the quality of the beef to the freshness of the garlic, every item enhances the overall texture, depth, and aroma of the dish.

• 4 pound beef tenderloin: This cut provides the perfect tenderness and flavor, serving 10 to 12 people with generous portions.
• 2-3 tablespoons canola oil: Ideal for high-heat searing to develop a caramelized crust.
• 1/2 cup salted butter (divided): Adds richness and helps infuse that irresistible garlic taste.
• 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt: Essential for seasoning the meat and drawing out flavor.
• 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns: Cracked fresh for a bold, peppery crust that complements the beef.
• 5 cloves garlic (minced, plus whole cloves for roasting): The star ingredient that gives this dish its signature aroma and depth.
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional): Parsley or thyme can brighten up the final presentation.

How to Make Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Trim the Beef Tenderloin

Start by trimming the beef tenderloin if it isn’t already trimmed, removing excess fat and silver skin for a cleaner eating experience. Allow the roast to sit out at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours before cooking. This step ensures even cooking throughout by bringing the meat to the ideal starting temperature.

Step 2: Shape and Tie the Roast

If your tenderloin is too long for your skillet, cut it into two pieces or tuck the skinny end underneath itself to create an even thickness. Secure the shape with kitchen twine, which ensures uniform cooking and a gorgeous roast shape.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven to 450°F

While you prep the meat, preheat your oven to a high temperature of 450°F. This initial heat blast helps develop a beautifully seared crust on the beef tenderloin.

Step 4: Season Generously with Salt and Pepper

Coat the tenderloin liberally with coarse sea salt and cracked black peppercorns. Seasoning is key in this Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe, as it enhances and balances the meaty and garlicky flavors throughout the roast.

Step 5: Sear the Tenderloin

Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it just begins to smoke. Place your seasoned tenderloin in the pan and sear each side for 3 to 4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. This locks in the juices and builds the base of flavor for the dish.

Step 6: Add Butter and Garlic for Roasting

After searing, spread 4 tablespoons of butter over the top and sides of the meat. Toss whole garlic cloves around the pan, and optionally add a teaspoon of minced garlic right on top. These contribute to that roasted garlic aroma that elevates the beef’s flavor to a whole new level.

Step 7: Roast until Medium-Rare

Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for approximately 25 to 30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 120 to 125°F for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer for best results to avoid overcooking.

Step 8: Rest the Roast

Once out of the oven, tent the roast loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute evenly, making every slice juicy and tender as the temperature rises slightly to about 130 to 135°F.

Step 9: Prepare the Garlic Browned Butter Sauce

While the tenderloin rests, heat the remaining 1/4 cup of butter and minced garlic over medium heat. Cook just until the butter turns golden brown and fragrant, then remove from heat. This sauce adds an extra layer of richness and garlic punch when drizzled over the meat.

Step 10: Slice and Drizzle

Remove the kitchen twine from the roast and cut the tenderloin into 3/4-inch thick slices. Arrange on a platter and drizzle the garlic browned butter generously over the top for that perfect finishing touch.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Optionally sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the beef for a splash of color and a fresh herbaceous note. Serve immediately and watch your guests savor every bite of this unforgettable Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe.

How to Serve Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or thyme help brighten the rich flavors while adding a touch of green that makes the dish pop visually. A few roasted garlic cloves on the side also make a beautiful and tasty accent to each plate.

Side Dishes

Pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a crisp green salad. The robust flavors of the beef and garlic match well with buttery or herb-infused sides that complement without overpowering.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner, serve the sliced tenderloin on a wooden board or a stylish platter with a small ramekin of the garlic browned butter for dipping. You can also layer the slices over a bed of sautéed greens or polenta for a gourmet visual and taste experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover beef tenderloin tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. Use within 3 to 4 days to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze slices of the cooked tenderloin by placing them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Label well and consume within 2 months for a delicious make-ahead meal option.

Reheating

To keep the tenderloin juicy when reheating, warm gently in a low oven (about 250°F) wrapped in foil or use the stovetop with a splash of beef broth and covered, until heated through. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use another type of oil besides canola oil for searing?

Absolutely! Oils with a high smoke point like avocado or grapeseed oil work well for searing. Avoid olive oil as it can burn at high temperatures.

How do I know when the beef tenderloin is perfectly cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 120-125°F for medium rare. It will rise slightly during resting to about 130-135°F.

Can I prepare the garlic browned butter ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the browned butter sauce ahead and gently reheat it before serving, but it’s best fresh to capture the rich nutty aroma of browned butter with garlic.

What if I prefer my beef more done than medium rare?

Adjust roasting time accordingly but be careful not to overcook as tenderloin is naturally lean and can dry out. Target 130°F for medium, 140°F for medium-well.

Is tying the tenderloin necessary?

Tying helps keep the roast uniform in shape for even cooking and a better presentation, but if your tenderloin is already uniform, it’s optional.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special every time you make it, whether for a holiday feast or a memorable dinner party. With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can create a melt-in-your-mouth roast that’s full of flavor, perfectly cooked, and guaranteed to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the wonderful compliments that come your way!

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