Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

If you are looking to impress with a dish that is both elegant and packed with rich flavor, the Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. This recipe perfectly balances the tenderness of the beef with the aromatic, silky garlic butter that envelops each bite. The secret lies in the simple yet high-quality ingredients that come together to create a dinner experience that feels special without complicated steps. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a celebration dinner, this recipe delivers sophistication and comfort on a single plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role, from seasoning and searing the beef to creating the sumptuous sauce that lifts the entire dish.

• 2 pounds Beef Tenderloin (Trimmed of silverskin): The star of the dish, prized for its buttery texture and mild flavor.
• 2 teaspoons Coarse Kosher Salt: Enhances natural flavors and helps in creating a beautiful crust.
• 1 teaspoon Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: Adds a gentle heat that complements the beef.
• 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Ideal for searing, it helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
• 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter: Forms the rich and creamy base of the garlic butter sauce.
• 6 cloves Fresh Garlic (Minced): Infuses the butter with a fragrant aroma and bold flavor.
• 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of color for garnish.
• Fresh Thyme or Rosemary: Optional herbs to boost the aromatic profile of the beef.
• Seasonal Vegetables (Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots): For freshness, color, and a balance to the richness.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes or Fluffy Rice: Perfect sides to soak up every drop of the delicious garlic butter sauce.

How to Make Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Beef

Start by bringing your beef tenderloin to room temperature by letting it sit out for about 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), setting yourself up for that perfect roast finish.

Step 2: Season Generously

Coat the tenderloin all over with coarse kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Don’t just sprinkle—press the seasoning into the meat. This step is crucial for unlocking maximum flavor and developing that savory crust during searing.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

Place a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add the extra virgin olive oil. Wait until it shimmers—it’s hot enough now to sear your beef to perfection, locking in juices and creating a caramelized exterior.

Step 4: Sear the Beef

Gently lay the tenderloin into the skillet, hearing that satisfying sizzle. Sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until every surface boasts a gorgeous golden-brown crust. This step is what builds layers of flavor and makes the dish truly special.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

While the beef is searing, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and let it cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes until it releases its aroma without browning. This simple sauce is going to elevate the dish amazingly.

Step 6: Baste with Garlic Butter

During the last minute of searing, spoon the fragrant garlic butter all over the tenderloin. This bastes the meat and starts infusing it with those rich, garlicky flavors you’re craving.

Step 7: Roast in the Oven

Transfer your skillet straight to the preheated oven. Roast for about 15 to 20 minutes if you’re aiming for a medium-rare finish, or cook until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C). This step finishes cooking the beef evenly while keeping it tender and juicy.

Step 8: Rest the Meat

Once out of the oven, transfer the tenderloin to a cutting board and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Letting it rest for 10 to 15 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice stays beautifully moist.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Cut the tenderloin into 1-inch thick medallions and artfully arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce generously over the top and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of green and fresh flavor.

Step 10: Plate with Sides

Serve immediately alongside your choice of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice and vibrant seasonal vegetables. These sides soak up the rich garlic butter sauce and add balance to each bite.

How to Serve Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds the perfect herbal brightness and eye-catching color to this rich dish. You can also add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary on the side to enhance the aroma and presentation.

Side Dishes

Pairing this recipe with creamy mashed potatoes or a light, fluffy rice creates a comforting base to catch every bit of garlic butter sauce. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add vibrant texture and freshness that balances the tender beef.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the sliced medallions on a large wooden board with small bowls of extra garlic butter sauce for dipping. Alternatively, arrange each serving on individual plates with the sauce drizzled artfully and a side of colorful vegetable ribbons for an elevated dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover beef tenderloin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve moisture, pour any remaining garlic butter sauce over the slices before sealing.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers by wrapping the beef tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or placing it in a freezer bag with some garlic butter sauce. Frozen beef tenderloin is best enjoyed within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven or covered skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. Adding a spoonful of garlic butter sauce during reheating helps maintain juiciness and flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the tender texture.

FAQs

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

While beef tenderloin is prized for its tenderness and flavor, you can substitute with a high-quality sirloin or ribeye. Keep in mind the texture and cooking times may vary, but the garlic butter sauce remains a perfect complement.

How do I know when the beef is cooked to medium-rare?

Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). The beef will continue to cook slightly while resting, reaching a perfect medium-rare temperature.

Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Warm it gently before drizzling over the cooked beef for best flavor.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

No problem! You can sear the beef in a regular skillet and then transfer it to a preheated baking dish or roasting pan to finish in the oven.

Are there vegetarian alternatives to pair with this recipe?

Absolutely! Roast a hearty portobello mushroom or cauliflower steaks with similar seasoning and garlic butter sauce to create a satisfying vegetarian option alongside the classic beef.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Tenderloin with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients brought together with care and love to create something truly special. Its tender beef and luscious, garlicky sauce never fail to delight. I can’t wait for you to try this and make it your go-to recipe for memorable meals that bring warmth and joy to your table.

Print