Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe

If you are craving a show-stopping centerpiece that combines rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, look no further than this Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe. It is a perfect way to elevate any gathering or celebration, offering a succulent roast infused with the warmth of garlic and the perfect crust of cracked black peppercorns and sea salt. This dish effortlessly balances elegance and comfort, making it a personal favorite that I love to share with friends and family when I want to impress without stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Each item has a crucial role, whether it’s enhancing the juicy texture, delivering bold flavors, or adding a visually appealing finish.

• 4 pound beef tenderloin: The star of the dish, ideally trimmed for even cooking and tenderness, with enough size to comfortably serve 10-12 people.
• 2-3 tablespoons canola oil: Perfect for high-heat searing to develop that mouthwatering browned crust without overpowering the meat’s flavor.
• 1/2 cup salted butter (divided): Adds lush richness, some used during roasting and some browned with garlic to drizzle over the sliced beef.
• 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors and produces a savory crust that locks in the juices.
• 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns: Cracked fresh to add a fragrant peppery kick and a delightful texture contrast on the crust.
• 5 cloves garlic (minced plus whole cloves): Infuses the roast with aromatic depth, both in the meat and the browned butter sauce for drizzling.
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional): A splash of green freshness—parsley or other herbs brighten the plate and aroma.

How to Make Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tenderloin

Start by trimming any excess fat or silverskin from the beef tenderloin if it isn’t prepped. Allow the meat to come to room temperature for 1-2 hours to ensure it cooks evenly and retains its juicy tenderness.

Step 2: Shape and Tie for Even Cooking

If your tenderloin is too long to fit in your roasting pan or skillet, cut it into two pieces. Fold the narrower end underneath itself to create a uniform thickness throughout the roast, then securely tie it with kitchen twine. This step ensures perfect cooking and consistent texture in every slice.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 450°F. This high temperature jumpstarts the cooking, helping the beef develop a beautiful crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Step 4: Season Generously

Coat the tenderloin liberally with coarse sea salt and freshly cracked black peppercorns on all sides. This seasoning layer is essential, building that iconic flavor and crust that defines this Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe.

Step 5: Sear the Meat

Heat canola oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until just smoking. Place your tenderloin in the pan and sear each side for 3-4 minutes, creating a deeply browned exterior packed with flavor.

Step 6: Add Butter and Garlic

Spread 4 tablespoons of salted butter over the seared tenderloin’s top and sides. Scatter whole garlic cloves around the meat in the pan and, if you love garlic, top the roast with a teaspoon of minced garlic for an extra punch.

Step 7: Roast to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and roast the beef for 25-30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 120-125°F for medium-rare. This ensures your roast stays juicy with a rosy pink center.

Step 8: Rest the Tenderloin

Remove the beef from the oven, tent it loosely with aluminum foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes. Resting redistributes the meat’s juices, allowing the internal temperature to rise to about 130-135°F, perfect for a succulent medium-rare finish.

Step 9: Make the Garlic Brown Butter

While the beef rests, melt the remaining butter with minced garlic in a pan over medium heat. Cook until the butter lightly browns and emits a nutty aroma, then remove from heat. This garlic brown butter will add a luxurious finishing touch.

Step 10: Slice and Drizzle

Carefully remove the twine from the tenderloin and slice it into 3/4-inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and drizzle the garlic browned butter generously over each piece for rich, luscious flavor.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Finish your Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or your favorite herbs for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and watch your guests savor every bite!

How to Serve Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe

Garnishes

Simple yet effective garnishes bring out the best in this dish. Freshly chopped parsley or thyme add a pop of vibrant color and subtle herbal brightness, creating a stunning presentation and enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Side Dishes

The buttery richness and bold garlic notes of the beef pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts, or a crisp, refreshing green salad. Consider a side of horseradish cream or a velvety red wine sauce for an extra layer of indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner party, arrange the sliced tenderloin fan-style on a warm platter, drizzle with the garlic brown butter, and sprinkle with edible flowers or microgreens. For a casual gathering, serve slices on warm baguette slices topped with a dollop of horseradish or Dijon mustard for bite-sized delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover garlic roasted beef tenderloin keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the beef slices separated from the garlic butter to preserve the texture and avoid sogginess. Reheat gently to enjoy it without compromising tenderness.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe later, freeze sliced or whole portions in freezer-safe containers or tightly wrapped foil and plastic wrap. It will maintain its flavor for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm slices gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F, basting with reserved garlic brown butter to keep the beef moist. Avoid microwaving directly as it may dry out the tender meat.

FAQs

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

While beef tenderloin is prized for its tenderness and mild flavor, you could adapt the recipe for cuts like strip loin or ribeye, but cooking times and textures will differ. For this Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe, the tenderloin’s soft texture is the highlight.

How do I know when the beef is cooked perfectly?

Use a reliable meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 120-125°F before resting. The heat will continue to carry over while resting, bringing it up to 130-135°F, which is ideal for juicy, tender beef.

Can I prepare the beef tenderloin in advance?

Yes! You can trim, season, and tie the tenderloin a few hours beforehand and keep it refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before searing and roasting. This saves prep time on the day you plan to serve.

What if I prefer a more garlic-forward flavor?

The Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe is flexible—feel free to add extra minced garlic under the butter or baste more brown garlic butter over the slices before serving to amplify the garlicky goodness.

Is it necessary to tie the tenderloin?

Tying the tenderloin helps it cook evenly and maintain a uniform shape, making for consistent slices and a beautiful presentation. If your tenderloin is already uniform, you may skip this step, but it’s recommended for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Roasted Beef Tenderloin Recipe is a timeless classic that brings impressive flavor, elegant presentation, and hearty satisfaction to your table. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving a delicious homemade roast, this recipe is guaranteed to become one of your favorites. Give it a try—you’ll delight in every juicy, garlicky slice!

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